Amino acids are in a large portion of our cells, tissue and muscles. Why take them? First, they help prevent muscle breakdown. BCAAs (Branch Chain Amino Acids) help increase the rate in which your body can build proteins so you aren’t breaking down muscle faster than you can rebuild. Leucine is the key BCAA in this process.

Secondly, they provide fuel for exercise. During an intense workout, the unique structure of BCAAs allows them to act as fuel for your muscles. And finally, they may help you slim down: Several studies show a relationship between BCAAs intake and leanness, and high intakes of BCAAs are generally associated with a leaner body.