Amino Acids
Essential amino acids (EAAs) are the key to more energy, endurance, and heart health. Groundbreaking research shows how EAAs improve mitochondrial function and can even support those with heart failure.
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Will Smith once said:
"The guy who's willing to hustle the most is gonna be the guy that just gets that loose ball."
In other words: Those who are willing to go the extra mile often become the ones who capture the ball that seemed lost.
This thought came to mind when we stumbled upon a fascinating study that once again demonstrates why this extra-mile mindset pays off.
The Power of Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)
Regular intake of essential amino acids (EAAs) has proven beneficial in many ways. Even with a protein-rich diet, supplementing with 10-20 g of EAAs per day provides a noticeable increase in energy levels. The motivation to move increases – the inner vibration that occurs creates a strong drive to be active.
Particularly remarkable is the health benefit of EAAs. A groundbreaking study by Enzo Nisoli and his team at the University of Milan showed over a decade ago that mice fed with EAAs were not only more active but also had improved health span and fewer age-related muscle deficits1. The reason: EAAs promote the formation and health of mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells.
Beyond athletic performance enhancement, BCAAs (leucine, isoleucine, valine) play a crucial role in heart health. In heart failure, a common consequence of chronically high blood pressure or ischemic heart disease, the breakdown of BCAAs in the heart is often disrupted. This leads to energy deficiency in heart muscle cells and deterioration of heart function. However, increased EAA intake can improve this BCAA breakdown and strengthen heart health2.
Study Shows: EAAs Normalize BCAA Breakdown
A study demonstrated that targeted EAA supplementation in mice with heart failure led to normalization of BCAA breakdown and significant improvement in heart function3. The result? A dramatic improvement in heart health by restoring metabolic flexibility.
Regular EAA intake offers not only improved muscle and heart health but also provides sustained energy levels. These effects are noticeable even in already compromised heart health.
The science supports these findings, and it becomes clear that today's options for promoting health and performance are diverse. A closer look at the latest research findings is always worthwhile.
Sources
Nisoli, E., Clementi, E., Paolucci, C., Cozzi, V., Tonello, C., Sciorati, C., ... & Carruba, M. O. (2003). Mitochondrial biogenesis in mammals: The role of endogenous nitric oxide. Science, 299(5608), 896-899. doi:10.1126/science.1079368.
Uddin, G. M., Youngson, N. A., Doyle, B. M., Sinclair, D. A., & Morris, M. J. (2019). Impact of moderate paternal chronic high-fat diet exposure on offspring metabolic health in mice: Modulation by dietary fat content. Nutrients, 11(2), 306. doi:10.3390/nu11020306.
Aquilani, R., La Rovere, M. T., Corbellini, D., Boschi, F., Viglio, S., Iadarola, P., & Verri, M. (2014). Effects of Essential Amino Acid Supplements on Physical Function, Exercise Capacity, and Muscle Mass in Patients With Heart Failure. Nutrition, 30(3), 220-227. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2013.08.013.
