(BPT) – While the global protein category is nearing $6 billion annually, there are many conflicting theories and reports about the best combination of ingredients for success as it relates to building muscle. In addition, many consumers are easily confused by the wide variety of products available to them at any given time.
Being able to choose the right supplement always starts with a solid understanding of the fundamentals of amino acids and knowing what you need to successfully build muscle.
Amino Acids 101
Amino acids are critical to supporting muscle growth and strength. A common misconception is that Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), isoleucine, leucine and valine alone can build lean muscle. But in fact, the body needs all nine essential amino acids (EAAs), histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine and valine in order to build muscle.
In general, an effective way to help build muscle is to consume these EAAs, commonly found in protein powders, in connection with a healthy diet and weight/resistance program. Such protein powders consist of a variety of EAAs that have been shown to aid in muscle building.
Supplements that provide the ‘full package’
When combined with a balanced diet and consistent training in weight/resistance programs, well-rounded supplements containing all nine EAAs allow consumers to take their workouts to the next level. Solutions such as the XS(TM) Muscle Multiplier EAA Supplement (when combined with regular weight/resistance training and a healthy balanced diet), leverage a blend of EAAs to assist in building lean muscle. Developed by a leading expert on essential amino acids and protein synthesis, XS(TM) Muscle Multiplier Essential Amino Acid Supplement contains the exact compositions and ratio of all nine essential amino acids necessary to help build lean muscle.
The formula delivers 3.6 grams of EAAs in a blend patented to assist in building lean muscle when combined with regular weight/resistance training and a healthy balanced diet. The recommended use is to consume 1-3 servings per day, before, during or after exercise or in between meals. (Of note: The above statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)
Unlike BCAAs alone, this solution uses 35 percent leucine, 20 percent lysine and 15 percent valine, with the remaining amino acids (histidine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine and threonine) in an additional 30 percent.
Looking to the future
Although the protein category has remained largely unchanged throughout the past 40 years, solutions like the XS(TM) Muscle Multiplier Essential Amino Acid Supplement have the potential to reignite long-awaited innovation in the growing sports nutrition market. As active generations seek to educate themselves on the benefits of essential amino acids, they will continue to further master the proper way to work out and supplement those workouts. It is simply a matter of building a strong understanding of how the body works and what can be done to help sustain its overall wellness.