Want to know the best BCAA powder for you? Here is some information about one of the world’s favourite sports supplement and 4 of our best BCAA powders.
What are BCAAs?
Branched chain amino acids, commonly known as BCAAs, refer to the 3 ‘essential’ amino acids valine, leucine and isoleucine.
This iconic trio makes up 1/3 of all skeletal muscle in the body. But, unlike other amino acids, you must consume BCAAs through your diet as your body can’t make them by itself.
What is BCAA powder used for?
Athletes and other fitness fans use BCAA supplements to support their muscle strength, growth and recovery. They’re great for people who want to make sure they’re getting enough protein to support and nourish their muscles before, during, and after exercising.
Is BCAA powder good for you?
Yep! Unlike other essential amino acids, BCAAs are usually sent straight to the muscles to be processed instead of in the liver. This, and other aspects, mean that taking BCAAs could help:
- Provide extra support while you’re exercising
- Increase your muscle mass faster
- You feel more energised for longer
When should you take BCAA powder?
It is generally advised that you take BCAA drinks or other supplements during workouts, shortly before or soon after for best results. Some formulations differ though, so always read the manufacturer’s instructions.
What are the side effects of BCAA?
The general consensus is that taking branched chain amino acid supplements is safe and BCAAs side effects are quite rare.
There are a few conditions where it may not be recommended that you take BCAA amino acids, so please consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
The effects of BCAAs on pregnant and breastfeeding women haven’t been tested (as it is unethical to do so) so it is not recommended.
What are our best BCAA powders?
Fancy giving them a go to see if they can help you? It can seem like a minefield out there when it comes to sports supplements, especially if you have a specific need.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to give you the lowdown on some of our favourites and help you find the best BCAA powder for you.
PE Nutrition Performance BCAA Powder – Strawberry & Watermelon
Looking for a BCAA that doesn’t break the bank? This PE Nutrition BCAA could be the one!
With a RRP of just £15 for 300g, it’s one of the best value offerings on the market – allowing you to try it out and see the benefits for yourself without shelling out the big bucks.
Key benefits:
- 5g of BCAAs per serving
- Contributes to muscle maintenance and growth
- Delicious strawberry and watermelon flavour
- Suitable for vegetarians
You can also try this BCAA powder in a tasty fruit punch flavour.
What our customers say:
MyFamilyLife – Great product – 5/5 stars
“I got this product to ensure I was getting enough protein in my diet as I start my fitness journey. This one seemed perfect as it helps support the maintenance of muscle mass. I have the watermelon one which tastes lovely just mixed with water. It only takes a few seconds to make it up which is perfect for grabbing & going. One scoop is all you need for one drink so the 300g tub will last a while.”
Libh123 - Great for before a cardio workout - 5/5 stars
"I had this just before my weekend run and got a personal best time! Really nice flavour (quite strong so definitely only buy if you like watermelon) and its really easy to mix up, no lumps and easy to drink."
2. Our best tasting BCAA powder
USN BCAA Power Punch - Watermelon
Let’s be honest… some BCAA and other sports supplements can leave you with a horrid taste in your mouth and much less motivation to drink them. Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about that with this delish watermelon flavoured BCAA by USN.
Key benefits:
- 6900mg of BCAAs per serving
- Tasty watermelon flavour
- No sugar, no carbs
- Suitable for vegans
- Contains extra amino acids like L-Glutamine and L-Citrulline
Try it in tangerine or cherry flavour too.
What our customers say:
Bostkin46 – Amazing taste – 5/5 stars
“I’ve been using BCAA’s for a few years now. This bar none is the best tasting product. Tastes fresh and does the job. Great product”
Patricklowen – Great taste – 5/5 stars
“I have just finished a tub of watermelon BCAA, and I have had great gains this week. Like....really great. You might as well just roll me in a tortilla with some sour cream and salsa cause this beef is SHREDDED! Thanks USN, great taste and results. Cheers.”
Prianka – Really recommend as an intra-workout drink!! – 5/5 stars
“I drink this throughout my work out. Tastes really nice. I’m sensitive to caffeine and pre-workouts but this makes me feel energised without any shakes or nausea.”
3. Our best vegan BCAA
Nutrabolt Xtend Hydrasport - Mango
Vegans need BCAAs too! This Xtend HydraSport Electrolyte + BCAA formula is packed full of high-quality BCAAs, as well as other key ingredients to support hydration and replenish electrolytes like salt, potassium and magnesium!
Key benefits:
- 100% vegan
- No sugar, artificial flavours or colourings
- Contains 7g of BCAA per serving at the clinically studied 2:1:1 ratio (3.5g leucine, 1.75g and 1.75g valine
- Contains ingredients like coconut water that offer and optimise hydration by replenishing important electrolytes
- Every batch is tested for banned substances
What our customers say:
Arkangel – Perfect intra workout – 5/5 stars
“It has a great taste and with electrolytes + BCAA with no caffeine it makes the perfect intra drink, especially if you training in the eve or night.”
Craig – Works and tastes really good – 5/5 stars
“Tastes amazing and really helps with re-hydration. I've been using it half strength and it seems fine. The colour is rather orangy/neon, I feel I should glow afterwards.”
4. Our best BCAA with EAA
USN BCAA + EAA – Blue Raspberry
If you want to really take your workouts or training to the next level, this high impact blend of complete BCAA and EAA could help you out.
EAA stands for essential amino acids, which is the full group of amino acids that cannot be made in the human body. So, not only does this blend contain high-quality BCAAs, it has you covered for the rest of those amino acids, too!
Key benefits:
- Contains 7g of BCAA per serving at the clinically studied 2:1:1 ratio (3.5g leucine, 1.75g and 1.75g valine
- Added 6500mg of EAAs and 1000mg of taurine for a more complex protein
- Enhanced with coconut water powder to help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating during exercise
- Vegan friendly
- Sugar free
- Every batch has been tested for banned substances
What our customers say:
Anonymous – Good product – 5/5 stars
“Drink this during my workouts tastes great and mixes well. Gives me a boost also. I don’t drink caffeine, so this does the trick to keep me energised on my morning workouts.”
Norb82 – Complete amino – 5/5 stars
“All in one amino, great taste, don't have to take different stuff.”
Is there a best BCAA for women?
BCAA powders don’t tend to differentiate between men and women, as all of us need the same essential amino acids, so don’t worry about it – pick whichever you like!
Last updated: 23 March 2021