It has long been established that protein is an essential nutrient that needs to be obtained from our diets. The ultimate value of a protein source is its amino acid composition. Basically, a protein molecule is a long chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds (i.e., an amino acid linked to another amino acid). Hundreds of different amino acids exist in nature; however, only twenty-two are typically found as components in human peptides or proteins. These amino acids are joined in varying combinations, each having a distinct amino-acid sequence which determines its specific shape and function. Once digested and absorbed, these amino acids play central roles as building blocks of proteins and as intermediates in metabolism, thereby controlling virtually all cellular process and reactions in living cells. Scientists, experts, and medical professionals all agree that getting enough amino acids in one's diet is an important factor in maintaining proper nutrition. In recent years, especially in the fitness industry, the emphasis has shifted from using protein to consuming specific amino acids. Many physiological processes related to bodybuilding, from energy, recovery, muscle hypertrophy, to strength gains, are linked to amino acids.
One of the challenges in maintaining focus during intense training and physical exercise is mental fatigue. Whereas most athletes worry about and take corrective action to ward against muscle fatigue, mental fatigue must be combated as well. In fact, recent research has placed increasing emphasis on mental fatigue during exercise. This mental fatigue is commonly referred to as central fatigue because of the involvement of the central nervous system. While central fatigue does not affect muscles, it can reduce the capacity to perform optimally.
There is a correlation between the amino acid tryptophan in the brain and the degree of mental fatigue. Upon entry into the brain, tryptophan has the ability to "calm" the central nervous system, causing sleep and drowsiness. Normally, there are sufficient amounts of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) circulating in the bloodstream to control the entry of tryptophan into the brain. During long-term and sustained exercise, however, muscles use large amounts of amino acids as a source for energy. The body prefers to use BCAAs for energy, since they readily replace glucose in the energy production pathways. As muscles begin to use BCAAs, the amounts of these amino acids drop, which allows tryptophan to enter the brain, inducing fatigue and tiredness. Research shows that supplementation with branched-chain amino acids can prevent central fatigue by tightly regulating the influx of tryptophan to the brain. Supplementation before and during exercise has been proven to enhance performance.
Branched-chain amino acids include leucine, isoleucine and valine. These amino acids are needed for the maintenance of muscle tissue during physical stress and intense exercise. From the perspective of athletes, BCAAs function as anabolic agents and induce sparing, which allows the body to burn fat and not muscle.
Nutrient needs often increase faster than calorie needs in athletes. Ultimate Nutrition is committed to providing athletes with the best products to fulfill exactly those needs. Ultimate Nutrition's 100% Crystalline BCAA 12,000 Powder is one product designed to increase endurance, lengthen the time to fatigue and improve performance.
FAQs
Q: What is the amount and ratio of BCAAs found in Flavored BCAA 12,000 Powder?
A: Flavored BCAA 12,000 Powder offer 6000 mg of BCAAs in a 2:1:1 ratio of leucine (3000 mg), isoleucine (1500 mg) and valine (1500 mg) per serving.
Q: How do I take Flavored BCAA 12,000 Powder?
A: Mix one scoop (7.6 grams) with 6-8 ounces of water or your favorite cold beverage. For optimal use, take between meals and immediately after your workout. For serious bodybuilders we recommend mixing two scoops.

Other Ingredients: Citric Acid, Waxy Maize, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium.
Directions: Mix one scoop (about 7.6 grams) with 6-8 ounces of water or your favorite cold beverage. For optimal use, take twice daily, once between meals and again immediately after your workout. For serious bodybuilders we recommend mixing two scoops.