More reasons people do not take BCAAs

BCAAs accelerate aging – Protein restriction and branched-chain amino acid restriction promote geroprotective shifts in metabolism. 08 May 2022. https://doi.org/10.1111/acel.13626

From Roc: Published results – Despite their proposed benefits on muscle growth, research has suggested that BCAA protein supplements may cause adverse health consequences if taken in excess. [But if taken at 5g per day up to 3 times per week after a hard workout when healthy they seem useful.] The researchers found that overall the consumption of BCAA supplements led to an increase of blood branched-chain amino acid levels. This resulted in a BCAA competing with tryptophan for brain transportation. When both amino acids access the brain, they then cause different effects. Tryptophan is considered to be one of the only precursors for serotonin, a hormone that improves mood and aids sleep amongst other roles. In instances where there is an increase in BCAA blood levels, BCAA takes tryptophan’s position within the brain, which results in reduced synthesis of serotonin, decreasing mood. In addition to serotonin’s role in mood enhancement, it also plays a role in the regulation of appetite. Within the study, due to lower serotonin levels and excess BCAAs, the researchers noted that the mice that consumed twice the standard dosage of BCAA overate and became obese, shortening their lifespan. BCAA and Cardiovascular Diseases In addition to the effects on mood, the excess consumption of BCAA supplements may be linked to an increased susceptibility to cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that the metabolism of amino acids is potentially involved in the development of heart disease. For example, those with heart issues have been found to have increased concentrations of BCAAs. BCAA and Diabetes Similarly, to cardiovascular diseases, high levels of BCAA are correlated to the onset of type 2 diabetes. Currently, it is unclear whether increased BCAAs are purely markers of the disease, or their increase is a consequence of a loss of insulin or whether raised BCAA levels are responsible for insulin resistance.From Stan: There are pros and cons with this one. I used to take it for a few years but I stopped because of the cons. We are all forced to take educated guesses at times Or simply don’t take anything that has any cons that you consider valid (till it is proven by careful human trials and good luck on that one).

From Johnny: From John Cramer’s outstanding notes from the ARDD conference:

At 6:40 AM, Dudley Lamming (U Wisconsin) presented evidence that branched-chain amino-acids (BCAA: Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine), which some people take as supplements, are bad for you. For mice, diets that restrict BCAA intake lead to extended healthspan and longevity.

In another chain Paul Wakfer discussed studies showing that leucine is a major promoter of mTOR, I have tried to avoid it, but this study suggests that I should be taking it again (as part of a branched chain amino acid supplement).

Modulation of Energy Sensing by Leucine Synergy with Natural Sirtuin
Activators: Effects on Health Span
Michael B. Zemel
Published Online:4 Aug 2020https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2020.0105

There was followup discussion.  You can read it in our archive

https://groups.google.com/a/lists.ucla.edu/g/grg/c/yMqMqvj8Afo/m/E1XKpxneCwAJ