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Posted by u/gymratbutchill·

BCAAs vs EAAs vs just hitting protein: what actually matters?

Been seeing a lot of hype around BCAAs and EAAs lately, but I'm wondering if they're rly necessary if you're already smashing your protein intake. Like, does it rly make a difference, or is it just another way to lighten your wallet? What do u guys think?

12 comments

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u/powerlifting_ninja·

I focus on whole food sources and hit my protein target every day. My lifts have been on point, so I don't see the point in wasting cash on BCAAs. Just hit your numbers and crush that PR.

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u/brokegains·

Honestly, if my wallet could talk, it would say 'please, no more supplements!' I mean, just buy some chicken and save your cash for something that matters, like more gym shoes. 😂

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u/treadmill_hater·

BCAAs? More like BCA-NOPE for my wallet. I'm all about lifting heavy, not spending heavily. Skip the hype and just lift!

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u/cardioisforlosers·

Facts. I mean, if you're slinging protein shakes and still feel like you need more aminos, maybe it's not the supps, but your lifting technique. 😂

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u/macrocounter98·

Research indicates that while BCAAs can help with muscle recovery, they don't do much if you already have enough protein. EAAs have a bit more value, but again, if you're meeting your protein needs, they might just be an extra expense. A meta-analysis from 2017 found little significant benefit for BCAAs over whole protein

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u/gymratbutchill·

Honestly, I just focus on my protein and try not to overthink it. If I'm hungry, I eat; if I'm lifting, I lift. Supplements can get complicated, man.

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u/midwest_lifter·

If you're already hitting your protein goals through whole foods, BCAAs and EAAs might not be necessary. Studies show that whole protein sources provide all the amino acids you need for recovery and muscle growth. Think of it this way, if your protein intake is solid, adding more amino acids is like icing on a cake that's already delicious.

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u/mom_of_gains·

As a busy mom, I get it! Sometimes a quick BCAA shake seems easier than prepping a meal. But if your protein is good, you might just be spending money on stuff you don't need. Keep it simple, mama!

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u/runningfromcardio·

Yeah, BCAAs are kinda overrated. If you're lifting hard and your diet is solid, you're good without the extra fluff. Just focus on those big compound lifts, bro!

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u/runningsneakers22·

I run and lift, and I just keep my protein intake high. I've never felt like I needed extra aminos. Just get those carbs in post-workout, and you'll be fine!

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u/veganpowerlifter·

For those on a plant-based diet like me, whole food protein sources can cover all your amino needs. Supplements are fine, but real food is where the magic happens! Check out lentils or chickpeas if you want to keep it simple

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u/recipequeen44·

I feel like meal prep is the key to success. I whip up big batches of quinoa and black beans, and that's my protein base. No need for BCAAs when I have those ready to go!

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