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Leucine supplementation and intensive training
1Department of Biology of Physical Activity, University of Jyväskylä, Finland. mero@maila.jyu.fi
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|July 27, 1999
Summary
Leucine, a key branched-chain amino acid (BCAA), plays a vital role in muscle protein synthesis and performance. Supplementation may help maintain leucine levels during exercise and potentially enhance muscle growth and reduce damage, though more research on leucine alone is needed.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Sports Science
Background:
- Leucine, isoleucine, and valine are branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) constituting a third of muscle protein.
- Leucine is crucial for stimulating muscle protein synthesis and is linked to gluconeogenic precursor release.
- Plasma leucine levels decrease significantly after various exercise types, including aerobic, anaerobic, and strength training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of leucine and its metabolite, beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB), on exercise performance and muscle metabolism.
- To explore the potential benefits of leucine supplementation in preventing decreases in serum leucine levels during training.
- To assess the impact of BCAA supplementation on body composition and visceral fat loss.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies examining leucine and BCAA supplementation in relation to exercise.
- Analysis of changes in plasma/serum leucine levels following different exercise modalities.
- Evaluation of studies on HMB supplementation during resistance training and BCAA supplementation with energy restriction.
Main Results:
- Leucine supplementation (50 mg/kg/day) during strength and speed training appeared to prevent serum leucine level decreases in athletes.
- Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation (3 g/day) increased fat-free mass and strength, while decreasing muscle proteolysis and plasma markers of muscle damage.
- BCAA supplementation (76% leucine) with energy restriction led to preferential visceral fat loss and maintained performance.
Conclusions:
- Leucine plays a significant role in muscle metabolism and response to exercise.
- Supplementation strategies involving leucine, BCAAs, or HMB show potential for enhancing athletic performance, muscle maintenance, and body composition.
- Further research is required to isolate the specific effects of leucine supplementation compared to mixed BCAA formulations.