Amino Acid Supplements are formulations designed to deliver vital amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, directly into the body. These supplements contain various essential and non-essential amino acids required for many important bodily functions such as supporting muscle growth, decreasing muscle soreness, aiding in quicker recovery after workouts and supplementing diets that are rich in low-calorie, filling foods.
Amino acids are usually consumed in the form of capsules, tablets, or powders mixed with beverages. In this article, the best amino acid supplement will be evaluated on quality, reviews, ratings, unique features and price. Here are the top 12 best amino acids money can buy.
- Thorne Amino Complex (Best Overall Amino Acid Supplements)
- Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine (Best Rated Amino Acid Supplements)
- Double Tree Essential Amino Acids (Best Amino Acid Capsules)
- Life Extension BCAA Capsules (Best Affordable Amino Acid Supplements)
- Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy (Best Budget Amino Acid Supplements)
- Ghost Legend Sour Patch Kids (Best Amino Acid Supplement Flavors)
- Naked BCAAs (Best Cleanest Amino Acid Supplements)
1. Thorne Amino Complex
Thorne’s Amino Complex is a top-tier supplement designed to maximize workout results and foster a lean, muscular physique. It uses amino acids to facilitate various body functions, from enzyme production to energy creation. It addresses muscle mass loss due to aging and encourages lean muscle growth.
The product is rich in nine essential amino acids (EAAs), necessary elements that the body cannot produce. Additionally, it contains a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), known to enhance muscle growth and strength.
Thorne’s Amino Complex offers extended benefits beyond muscle development. It aids in muscle repair, reduces soreness, and boosts energy production. It also supports cardiovascular health and blood sugar regulation.
Available in lemon and berry flavors, it’s lightly sweetened with natural ingredients. It mixes easily in both warm and cold liquids and is best consumed post-workout for efficient recovery. The supplement caters to active individuals, those monitoring calorie intake, and those who have difficulty consuming whole foods or protein powders after intensive exercise.
Being NSF Certified for Sport®, every batch of Thorne’s Amino Complex is tested for label compliance and to ensure the absence of banned substances. Hence, it’s an effective, versatile, and trustworthy supplement for diverse users.
2. Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine
The CoreSeries BCAA Glutamine by Transparent Labs is an impressive supplement designed to take the lead in the realm of BCAA “repair and recovery” products. Transparent Labs stays true to its name by providing 100% formula transparency, ensuring users can be confident about what they’re consuming.
Key components in this product, including Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine, Glutamine, and Coconut Water Extract, are all clinically backed ingredients present at dosages associated with published scientific research. This demonstrates the company’s commitment to ensuring the effectiveness of their product. Notably, the supplement uses premium fermented vegan BCAAs, aligning with the preferences of vegan consumers.
One of the standout qualities of this product is the absolute absence of artificial sweeteners, coloring, and preservatives, further proving Transparent Labs’ dedication to natural, clean ingredients. This product is gluten-free and non-GMO, ensuring it’s suitable for consumers with specific dietary requirements.
The supplement features a BCAA ratio of 2:1:1 with 8,000 mg, in addition to Glutamine at 5,000 mg and Coconut Water Powder at 1,000 mg. This robust composition ensures the body receives the necessary nutrients for optimal repair and recovery.
In terms of usage, the product is straightforward and easy to incorporate into any fitness routine. It suggests mixing one level scoop with 10-12 ounces of cold water or any other preferred beverage, to be consumed 30-45 minutes before, during, or immediately after training. For best results, it recommends consuming at least two servings per day, without exceeding four servings.
In conclusion, Transparent Labs CoreSeries BCAA Glutamine is a trustworthy and high-quality supplement offering substantial repair and recovery benefits. Its natural composition, backed by clinical research, makes it an excellent choice for individuals seeking an effective, clean, and transparent supplement to support their training regimen.
3. Double Tree Essential Amino Acids
Double Tree Essential Amino Acids is a comprehensive supplement that offers all nine essential amino acids. The supplement plays a vital role in supporting muscle recovery, enhancing physical endurance, and promoting overall health and wellness. This supplement is designed to support protein synthesis, which aids muscle growth and recovery. It may also boost energy production and promote better mood and cognitive function.
The key ingredients of this supplement are the nine essential amino acids – histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. These are the amino acids that your body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained from your diet or supplements.
The supplement’s pros include its comprehensive blend of the best essential amino acids, the absence of unnecessary fillers or additives, and its suitability for both vegans and vegetarians. However, some cons to note might include the taste, which some users may find less palatable than other flavored supplements, and potential gastrointestinal discomfort if not taken as recommended.
Reviews for Double Tree EAA are largely positive, with users noting improvements in recovery time after workouts, increased energy levels, and overall health benefits. These amino acids are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, it’s free from common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten, and it’s manufactured in a GMP certified facility, ensuring high-quality standards.
4. Life Extension BCAA Capsules
Life Extension BCAA Capsules are a product of Life Extension, a brand with a longstanding reputation for producing high-quality supplements. While this amino acid supplement is not the top choice, it is a safe and effective option.
This supplement stands at a slightly higher price point, but its cost is justified by its comprehensive nutrient profile. The main ingredients include Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) – Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine – aimed at supporting muscle growth and recovery.
A notable benefit of Life Extension BCAA Capsules is the promotion of liver health and immune function, apart from the typical benefits related to muscle recovery.
Reviews for the product are overwhelmingly positive, citing its efficiency and the benefits observed. A potential drawback, however, is that some customers find swallowing the capsules difficult.
For effective results, it is recommended to follow the usage instructions provided on the product label. As with any supplement, understanding your body’s unique needs and responses is key to achieving optimal results, so it’s important to monitor your reactions to the supplement and adjust dosage as needed.
5. Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy
Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy is a premium supplement, meticulously designed to provide you with the essential nutrients to help achieve your fitness goals. This product offers a substantial blend of amino acids and an energy boost from natural caffeine sources, making it a valuable addition to any workout regimen.
The supplement’s blend of micronized amino acids, including Taurine, L-Glutamine, L-Arginine, L-Leucine, and Beta-Alanine, to name a few, helps facilitate muscle recovery and performance. This comprehensive list of ingredients underscores the product’s potential in aiding muscle repair and bolstering endurance.
What sets Amino Energy apart is its Energy Blend, consisting of caffeine, green tea extract, and green coffee extract. With a serving size of two scoops, you receive 100 mg of caffeine, offering a robust energy boost pre-workout. This blend is thoughtfully designed to provide you with the vigor you need for your workout while ensuring it does not lead to energy crashes afterward.
Usage instructions for this product are quite straightforward, offering flexibility based on your needs. The product suggests starting with two scoops to assess your tolerance to the caffeine content and then gradually increasing the serving size, with a strict warning not to exceed more than 10 scoops in a day or 6 scoops within a 4-hour period.
6. Ghost Legend Sour Patch Kids
Ghost BCAAs is an impressive supplement that brings together the power of amino acids with the tangy delight of SOUR PATCH KIDS flavors. Ideal for use during workouts, throughout the day, or even before a night out, this supplement promises not just benefits but also an enjoyable experience.
This product packs a hefty 7G of vegan-fermented BCAAs per scoop, ensuring your body receives the right blend of Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine. Infused with Astragin, Ghost BCAAs amplifies the body’s absorption of essential amino acids, proteins, and glucose, promising you maximum gains from every scoop.
True to the ethos of transparency, Ghost BCAAs discloses the dosage of every active ingredient on its label, thereby eliminating the mystery of proprietary blends. It ensures you know exactly what you’re consuming and the benefits you stand to reap.
In line with various dietary needs, Ghost BCAA is vegan-friendly, soy-free, gluten-free, and sugar-free, broadening its appeal to health-conscious users. As a premium active lifestyle brand, Ghost motivates users to “BE SEEN” beyond the gym, making a statement that resonates with those eager to make an impact.
Overall, Ghost BCAAs Sour Patch is a flavorful, effective, and transparent supplement, providing a powerful addition to your fitness regimen. The price point is similar to other brands on this list and is worth a try.
7. Naked BCAAs
Naked BCAAs is a supplement produced by Naked Nutrition, a company recognized for its commitment to minimalism and transparency in ingredients. Customers of the Naked amino acids can expect noticeable effects in terms of improved recovery times and enhanced muscle growth.
This amino acid product, priced competitively in the market, provides a potent ratio of 2:1:1 of Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine, the three Branched Chain Amino Acids. These ingredients, in this specific ratio, aid in effective muscle recovery and growth.
The benefits of Naked BCAAs extend to boosting protein synthesis, reducing muscle breakdown, and assisting in muscle repair post-exercise. Although largely positive, reviews do caution about the taste, considering it to be a minor drawback which often comes with clean products.
Priced cheaper than most on this list, you can expect to pay $1 for three servings which is quite cheap. While the flavor is not anything special, it is hard to find such a clean product in today’s market.
8. Now Sports Nutrition Amino Complete
Now Sports Amino-9 Essentials Powder is a superior supplement offering by Now Sports, a trusted name in the industry. This product is competitively priced, offering consumers a budget-friendly yet effective option.
The NOW Sports supplement features all nine essential amino acids, a feature that sets it apart from many competitors. In terms of benefits, users can expect improved muscle endurance, better recovery times, and enhanced muscle growth.
The reviews are primarily positive, with some noting improvements in workout performance and recovery. On the downside, some customers might find the taste not to their liking. It’s recommended to mix the powder with water or your beverage of choice and consume either before, during, or after your workout for optimal results.
9. Swolverine BCAA 2:1:1 Powder
Swolverine BCAA 2:1:1 Powder is a top-grade supplement offering from Swolverine, a brand that prides itself on creating products designed to enhance athletic performance. Positioned at a slightly higher price point, this supplement offers a proven ratio of BCAAs, aimed at optimizing muscle growth and recovery.
The benefits of Swolverine include enhanced endurance during workouts and quicker recovery post-exercise. The majority of user reviews are positive, praising the supplement’s performance-enhancing effects and variety of flavors. However, a potential con is the higher cost, which may not be within everyone’s budget.
For optimal effects, it is recommended to consume the powder mixed in water before, during, or after workouts. Remember, results may vary from person to person, and it is essential to follow the usage instructions for safety and effectiveness.
10. Klean BCAA + PEAK ATP®
Klean BCAA + PEAK ATP® is a well-formulated supplement by Klean Athlete, a brand dedicated to developing high-quality products for athletes. This supplement, slightly high on the price scale, stands out due to its unique combination of BCAAs and PEAK ATP®, ingredients aimed at enhancing muscle performance and recovery.
The pros of Klean’s amino acid product includes a unique formulation and the potential to increase muscular power. A notable con, however, is the price, which may be above some users’ budget.
Customer reviews reflect the product’s performance, citing increased endurance and faster recovery times. While the overall rating is not the highest on this list, the positive reviews speak for themselves.
For best results, it is suggested to consume one scoop of the product mixed in water, 30 minutes before a workout. It’s important to remember that individual results may vary, and care should be taken to follow the usage instructions for optimal effectiveness.
11. Xwerks Motion
Xwerks Motion is a specialized supplement developed by Xwerks, a brand with a reputation for creating premium products. Though its price is towards the higher end, it provides a complex blend of the best EAA (essential amino acids) and electrolytes.
Pros of this supplement include its wide-ranging ingredient profile and its potential to support hydration and endurance. The primary con lies in its higher cost, which might not suit all budgets.
Customer reviews reflect a positive experience, with reported benefits including improved hydration, endurance, and recovery. People also tend to give this manufacturer a higher rating based on their branding, for whatever that is worth for you.
For optimal usage, it’s recommended to consume one serving during workout sessions. It’s also important to note that results may vary from person to person, and adhering to the provided usage instructions is key to ensuring safety and effectiveness.
12. Cellucor Alpha Amino
Cellucor Alpha Amino is a robust supplement offered by Cellucor, a trusted brand in the health and fitness industry. Competitively priced, this product is formulated with a blend of essential amino acids and electrolytes.
The benefits of the Cellucor Alpha Amino range from improved hydration to better muscle recovery and growth. Unlike their flagship and well know C4 product, the Cellucor Alpha Amino offers an actual blend of BCAAs.
While reviews are generally positive, noting improved performance and recovery, some customers mention that the flavors may not be to everyone’s liking. It is also worth noting that their advertising is a bit misleading as the ratio of amino acids contains a blend.
The best effects are observed when consumed during or after workouts. Remember, individual results may vary, and it is essential to adhere to the instructions for maximum benefits and safety.
What are Amino Acid supplements?
Amino acid supplements are dietary additions made from amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. They include essential amino acids that cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained from the diet.
These supplements serve numerous roles in the body, from constructing proteins and synthesizing hormones to supporting immune function and aiding in energy production. They come in various forms including pills, powders, and liquids, catering to different needs and preferences.
How to Choose the Best Amino Acid Supplement?
Choosing the best amino acid supplement relies on seven key factors. These factors include ingredient quality, the types of amino acids required for your goal, dietary restrictions, lifestyle, health goals, reviews/ratings, and the price.
One key consideration is the ingredient quality. High-quality supplements will contain pure amino acids without unnecessary fillers or additives. The type of amino acids present in the supplement also matters. For instance, if muscle recovery is the goal, supplements with BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) might be more suitable.
Personal factors such as dietary restrictions, lifestyle, and specific health goals should also be considered to ensure the supplement aligns with individual needs. Lastly, it is important to find a highly reviewed and rated product that fits within your price range.
- Ingredient quality
- Types of amino acids required for your goal
- Dietary restrictions
- Lifestyle
- Health goals
- Reviews
- Price
What is the purpose of taking amino acid supplements?
Amino acid supplements serve multiple purposes. They can assist in muscle building and recovery, especially after strenuous physical activities. Certain amino acids, such as tryptophan, help in producing vital hormones like serotonin, which aids in sleep and mood regulation.
Other amino acids support immune health, energy production, and even cognitive function. Therefore, taking amino acid supplements can help meet the body’s increased demand for these nutrients, particularly during times of stress, illness, or intense training.
What are the different types of amino acids commonly found in supplements?
There are several types of amino acids commonly found in supplements. These include essential amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine (collectively known as BCAAs), lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and histidine. There are also non-essential amino acids like glutamine, arginine, and tyrosine that are commonly included in these supplements due to their various health benefits.
- Leucine
- Isoleucine
- Valine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Phenylalanine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
- Histidine
What are the Benefits of Amino Acid supplements?
Amino acid supplements have a wide array of benefits. They can help promote muscle growth and decrease muscle soreness, making them a popular choice among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Certain amino acids also enhance brain function by boosting mood and concentration. These supplements can also improve immune function, promote better sleep, and support the body in various ways to maintain overall health and well-being.
It’s important to note that these benefits can vary based on the specific type of amino acids in the supplement.
- Muscle growth
- Decrease in soreness
- Enhanced brain function (mood and concentration)
- Improve immune function
- Promote better sleep
Are there any Side Effects associated with Amino Acid Supplementation?
While amino acid supplements are generally safe for consumption, they may cause side effects in some people. These can include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and diarrhea, particularly when consumed in large amounts. Some people may also experience allergic reactions.
Long-term usage of certain amino acids may lead to imbalances in the body. It is always recommended to adhere to the suggested dosage and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Imbalances in the body
How to take the Best Amino Acid Supplements?
To get the most from amino acid supplements, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on dosage and timing. Some supplements are best taken on an empty stomach, while others work better when taken with meals.
Depending on the specific goal – for example, muscle recovery or improved sleep – the timing may differ. Always start with the lowest suggested dose to assess tolerance and gradually increase if necessary, under professional guidance.
How long should I take Amino Acid Supplements?
The duration of taking amino acid supplements can depend on several factors, such as the specific health goals, individual tolerance, and advice from a healthcare professional. Some people may benefit from short-term use during periods of increased physical activity or stress, while others might require long-term supplementation to support specific health conditions.
Can I take Amino Acid Supplements for a short period of time?
Yes, taking amino acid supplements for a short period is feasible and can be beneficial, particularly during times of increased demand, such as intense training periods or recovery from illness. These supplements can help meet the body’s elevated need for amino acids during such times.
However, it’s crucial to remember that these supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet and should be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle. As always, professional medical advice should be sought before starting any supplement regimen.
Should I consult with a healthcare professional before discontinuing amino acid supplements?
Yes, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your supplement regimen, including discontinuing amino acid supplements. This is particularly important for individuals who have specific health conditions or are on medication, as abrupt changes may affect their overall health status.
Can you take Amino Acid Supplements with Other Types of Supplements?
Yes, you can take amino acids supplements with other types of supplements. However, when it comes to mixing supplements with amino acids, you should consider the dosage, absorption and interaction it may have.
- Dosage: While most supplements do not contain high doses of amino acids, some of them do. So, depending on what other products you take, be mindful of the doseage and your daily intake.
- Absorption: Some nutrients can compete for absorption. For instance, if you’re taking iron and calcium supplements at the same time, they can inhibit each other’s absorption. Depending on what you take, it is worth looking into the impact amino acids can have.
- Interaction: Some supplements can interact with each others. For example, if two supplements are both processed by the liver, taking them together might increase the stress on your liver. So, depending on your health condition, it is worth consulting with a professional health expert to see if amino acids will interact with any other supplements you take and/or medications.
What is the difference between EAA vs BCAA?
EAA (Essential Amino Acids) and BCAA (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) are both crucial groups of amino acids, but they serve different roles in nutrition and fitness. EAAs consist of nine amino acids that the body cannot synthesize on its own, including the three BCAAs – leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These nine EAAs are vital for overall health and are required for various bodily functions, including tissue repair and nutrient absorption.
BCAAs, on the other hand, are a subset of EAAs and are especially important for muscle building and recovery. They play a significant role in protein synthesis and energy production during exercise. While BCAA supplements can be sufficient for supporting intense physical activity and muscle recovery, EAAs provide a more comprehensive amino acid profile necessary for broader health benefits.
What is the difference between EAA vs Whey Protein Powder?
EAA (Essential Amino Acids) supplements and whey protein powder are both important for muscle health and recovery but serve different roles in nutrition. EAAs are a group of nine amino acids, including BCAAs, that the body cannot synthesize and must obtain from the diet. These are crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle repair. EAA supplements are quickly absorbed, making them ideal for immediate muscle recovery needs.
Whey protein, derived from milk, is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids, including a high concentration of BCAAs. It’s particularly rich in leucine, known for its role in muscle protein synthesis. Whey protein is absorbed more slowly than EAAs, providing a sustained release of amino acids, which makes it beneficial for longer-term muscle nourishment and overall protein supplementation.
While EAA supplements are focused on delivering essential amino acids directly and quickly, whey protein offers a more comprehensive nutritional profile, including additional nutrients.
