Amino Acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein with each its own function. There are many kinds of amino acids such as (semi-) essential amino acids like Leucine, Arginine and Glutamine. But others like Taurine or L-Carnitine can be valuable additions. There are also carefully selected blends of amino acids such as the well-known BCAA’s (Branched Chain Amino Acids). Amino acids are available in powder form, pills and even a ready to drink variety. To select your personal preference, check out our full selection.

What are amino acids?

Proteins are an important part of (strength)sports. They contribute to building and retaining muscle mass. Protein consist out of 20 different amino acids, 12 non-essential are generated by your own body. The remaining 8 will have to be extracted from foods like meat, fish and dairy. It might be possible that your eating pattern is not stable and therefore you won’t get enough amino acids in your system. If this is the case than a supplement might be the solution.

What is the right time of the day to take amino acids?

Amino acids have a unique advantage compared to protein in that they are already isolated. This makes them much easier absorbed by the body. Timing is of more importance when it comes to amino acids, for instance surrounding weight training or before/after your cardio workout.

What kinds of amino acids are there?

As mentioned above, amino acids consist out of non-essential and essential amino acids. Since non-essential amino acids are generated by the body, we won’t mention these. Essential amino acids are leucine, isoleucine, valine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, threonine, methionine, histidine and arginine. Three of these, leucine, iso-leucine and valine, belong to the so called BCAA’s. these three amino acids have unique properties which make them very suitable for weight training.

Buy amino acids?

As you have read, there are many kinds of amino acids. You have the option of loose amino’ s, blends or BCAA’s. these are available in capsules, powder form or ready-to-drink. XXL Nutrition offers a wide range of amino acids from top notch brands as well as our own brand.