Should You Be Taking Amino Acids?

Salus • October 16, 2024

Here’s What You Need to Know!

If you've ever wondered whether amino acids are right for you, you're not alone. Let’s explore how aminos can fit into your routine, along with some frequently asked questions!

Why Take Amino Acids?

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and play a crucial role in:

  • Muscle Recovery: Reduce soreness and speed up repair.
  • Preventing Muscle Loss: Support muscle mass during calorie deficits or inactivity.
  • Energy Production: Boost endurance and reduce workout fatigue.
  • Immune Support: Strengthen your body's defenses under intense training conditions.


Aminos vs. Creatine: What’s the Difference?

Aminos are essential for muscle recovery, energy, and performance. But they’re not the same as creatine—both have unique benefits. 


  • Amino Acids: Focus on recovery, repair, and muscle preservation. They are essential around workouts to reduce soreness and prevent breakdown.
  • Creatine: Enhances strength, power, and muscle volume by replenishing energy stores (ATP) for short bursts of high-intensity activity. It’s more performance-oriented for heavy lifting and high intensity/short duration workouts (like CrossFit!).


In summary, aminos support endurance and recovery, while creatine focuses on strength and power. Both can complement each other, but they serve different purposes.


Common Questions & Answers:

1. What types of amino acids are there?

  • Essential Amino Acids (EAAs): Must come from food or supplements.
  • Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): A subset of EAAs—leucine, isoleucine, and valine—great for muscle recovery.


2. Should I take BCAAs or EAAs?
BCAAs are useful for muscle endurance and recovery, but EAAs offer a more comprehensive blend for muscle growth and repair.


3. When should I take amino acids?
Aminos can be taken before, during, or after workouts. They also work well between meals to prevent muscle loss or in the morning for an energy boost.


4. Do I still need aminos if I eat enough protein?
Yes! Aminos are quickly absorbed, which makes them ideal for workouts when your body needs fast support for recovery and repair.


5. Will aminos help with weight loss?
Aminos protect muscle mass during weight loss, helping maintain your metabolism while keeping fatigue at bay.


6. Can I take both amino acids and creatine?
Absolutely! Aminos and creatine work differently, but together they provide a powerful combo for performance and recovery. Creatine boosts your strength output, while aminos ensure your muscles recover and grow effectively.


Ready to Maximize Your Results?

Whether you’re building muscle, recovering faster, or maintaining strength during weight loss, amino acids could be the boost you need.


Not sure where to start? We trust Thorne clinically-validated EAA and BCAA formula that supports your muscles and your love for training. Save 10% and get free shipping at: https://s.thorne.com/5Kvbe


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