BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) are not necessarily useless, but they may not be essential for everyone. Here are some reasons why some people may consider BCAAs to be less effective or even useless:
- Diet: If you consume enough protein-rich foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products, you may already be getting enough BCAAs from your diet, making supplementation unnecessary.
- Cost: BCAA supplements can be expensive, and some people may not find the cost to be justified, especially if they are already consuming enough protein.
- Limited benefits: While BCAAs may help improve muscle protein synthesis and reduce muscle soreness, the benefits may be relatively small and not noticeable for people who are already consuming sufficient protein.
- Absorption: BCAAs may not be absorbed as well as complete protein sources, such as whey protein, which contain all essential amino acids.
That being said, there are some situations in which BCAA supplements may be beneficial, such as for athletes and bodybuilders who are training intensely and may need higher levels of BCAAs to support their goals. BCAAs may also be helpful for people who are following a low-calorie diet or who are fasting, as they may help preserve muscle mass during periods of restricted calorie intake.
Ultimately, whether or not BCAAs are useless depends on individual circumstances and goals. If you are considering taking BCAAs, it's important to talk to a healthcare professional to determine whether they are appropriate for you and your needs.
