Reviews and Information for Branched-chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)
Muscle & Workout Supplements (Creatine and BCAAs)
Find the best muscle and workout supplements with creatine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), tests for contamination with dicyandiamide, evidence for increasing muscle strength and endurance, improving your workout, dosage, safety, side effects and more. Find out which ones passed or failed our tests and why.
Muscle & Workout Supplements (Creatine and BCAAs) Review
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CL Answer
Can heat and humidity destroy whey protein and other sports nutrition supplements (e.g., creatine, BCAAs, digestive enzymes) during shipping or while storing at home?
Find out if heat and humidity can degrade creatine, BCAAs, digestive enzymes, and other muscle enhancing supplements.
Product Review
Protein Powders, Shakes, and Meal Replacements Review
Find Out Which Protein Products Passed or Failed Our Tests
CL Answer
Do essential amino acid (EAA) supplements help build muscle better than dietary protein or protein supplements?
Comparison of essential amino acids vs dietary protein and protein supplements for building muscle.
CL Answer
I do moderate exercise for about an hour a few times a week. Which supplements might help me, and which should I consider avoiding?
Info on what supplements are best for work out & exercise regimens, including electrolytes, protein, creatine, and BCAAs.
Clinical Update
3/28/2023
BCAAs for Post-surgery Recovery?
Does taking branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) after lower back surgery help with recovery? Find out what a recent study showed in the BCAAs section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review.
Also see our Top Picks among BCAA supplements.
Clinical Update
2/23/2022
Leucine for Muscle Loss?
Did leucine supplementation improve physical function in people ages 70 and older with age-related muscle loss in a recent study? Find out in the Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review.
Also see our answer to the question: Which vitamins and minerals should someone over 70 take?
Clinical Update
12/06/2020
Do Creatine or BCAAs Boost Strength?
When coupled with resistance exercise, does supplementation with creatine or branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) further boost muscle strength? Find out what separate recent studies showed for creatine and BCAAS in the "What It Does" section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Pick for creatine and BCAA supplements.
CL Answer
Which supplements may benefit people with essential tremor, and which should be avoided?
Learn about supplements used for treating essential tremor, including caprylic acid (also called octanoic acid), thiamin (vitamin B1), cannabidiol (CBD), GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), and branched-chain amino acids. Find out which work and which don't. Also find out which supplements and food may make essential tremors worse.
CL Answer
Does taking creatine affect tests for creatinine in urine samples or creatine kinase in blood samples?
Find out if creatine can affect creatinine levels and kidney function and whether creatine affects creatine kinase activity, a measure of muscle injury.
CL Answer
What is the best protein supplement for vegetarians and vegans?
Find out which protein supplements for vegetarians and vegans are best, including those made from whey, casein, soy, rice, pea, and hemp. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Best Supplements to Prevent Age-Related Muscle Loss
Discover the top supplements to prevent age-related muscle loss after 60. Learn how protein, fish oil, vitamin D, and more can help maintain muscle strength and combat sarcopenia.
Product Review
Taurine Supplements Review for People, Dogs, and Cats
Find the Best Taurine Supplements. Learn When to Use Taurine and Which Supplement is Best.
Clinical Update
9/15/2020
Preventing Muscle Loss with Leucine?
Do supplements with leucine (a branched-chain amino acid or BCAA) prevent muscle loss when muscles are immobilized (such as in a leg brace)? See what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review.
Product Review
Electrolytes & Sports Drinks Review
See Which Sports Drinks, Powders, and Pills Deliver the Right Electrolytes
Product Review
Lavender and Tea Tree Essential Oils Review
Oils Tested for Authenticity and Purity
Product Review
Olive Leaf Extract Supplements Review
Learn What Olive Leaf Does and the Best Brands
Product Review
Lion's Mane and Chaga Supplements Review
Read Labels Carefully -- Many Can Mislead
Product Review
Coconut Oil and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil Review — Semi-Solid and Liquid Oils & Supplements
Find the Best Coconut Oil and MCT Oil. See How These Oils Compare on Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), Quality, and Value.
Clinical Update
11/10/2013
Amino Acids Speed Recovery From Knee Surgery
A study of men and women receiving knee replacement surgery showed that taking essential amino acids (including branched-chain amino acids) twice daily before and after surgery reduced muscle loss and speeded recovery. For details, including dosage, plus our reviews of amino acid supplements, see the updated Muscle Enhancers Review >>
News Release
June 08, 2023
Best Muscle and Workout Supplements With Creatine or BCAAs, According to ConsumerLab Tests
White Plains, New York, June 8, 2023 — Creatine supplements are promoted to increase muscle size, strength, and endurance, while supplements with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are promoted to improve exercise recovery.
News Release
March 07, 2019
Best Coconut and MCT Oils Identified by ConsumerLab
White Plains, New York, March 7, 2019 — Coconut oil is often promoted as a "healthy fat" and an alternative source of energy to help with weight loss and in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease because it contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs).
Product Review
Prostate Supplements Review (Saw Palmetto and Beta-Sitosterol)
Find the Best Prostate Supplement for Symptoms of BPH. See Which Prostate Supplement Passed or Failed CL's Tests of Quality.
CL Answer
What is BPC-157, what is it used for and is it safe?
Find out about BPC-157, including what it's promoted for and if it is safe.
Clinical Update
2/17/2015
Creatine Tested for Parkinson Disease
Taking creatine daily for at least five years did not slow the progression of Parkinson disease according to a recently reported study involving nearly 1,000 patients. For more details about the study, other studies with creatine (for strength, fibromyalgia, etc.), and our tests of creatine supplements, see the Product Review of Muscle Enhancers (Creatine and Branched-chain Amino Acids) >>
Clinical Update
4/15/2015
Muscle Supplements and Testicular Cancer
A study of men who have used muscle-building supplements shows a disturbing increase in the risk of testicular cancer. More information is in the Muscle Enhancers (Creatine and Branched-chain Amino Acids) Review >>
Clinical Update
5/19/2013
Creatine for Fibromyalgia
A new study shows that creatine might have a role in boosting muscle strength in patients with fibromyalgia. Get the details, plus quality ratings for creatine supplements in our updated Muscle Enhancers (Creatine and Branched Chain Amino Acids) Review >>
Product Review
Collagen Supplements Review
See our Top Picks for Wrinkles and Joints
CL Answer
Top 8 vitamins and nutrients for vegetarians and vegans
Find out which 8 supplements may be needed by vegetarians or vegans to meet all their daily nutrient requirements and learn ways to find supplements that do not contain ingredients objectionable to people following vegetarian or vegan diets.
Product Review
Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review
Best Multivitamins -- Caution with Gummies
Product Review
Phosphatidylserine (PS) Supplements
Find out if phosphatidylserine helps with memory and which products are best.
News Release
January 15, 2014
Problems Found with the Quality and Labeling of Some "Muscle Enhancement" Supplements -- Review of Creatine and Branched-chain Amino Acid Supplements Published by ConsumerLab.com
White Plains, New York, January 15, 2014 — Athletes often turn to supplements such as creatine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) to enhance muscle strength and recovery. These supplements may also benefit people with muscular diseases and those recovering from knee surgery.
CL Answer
Must I take amino acid supplements on an empty stomach? Can I take them with other amino acids or with food to help with swallowing capsules?
Find out if you should take amino acid pills on an empty stomach or with food in order to maximize absorption, and more about the best way to take amino acid supplements.
CL Answer
Are supplements with amino acid chelated minerals better than those with other forms of minerals?
Learn more about chelates, including evidence from clinical studies on selenium, iron, and magnesium.
CL Answer
What’s the Best Way to Get High-Quality Protein from Food?
Find out the best way to get high-quality protein from animal or plant-based food instead of supplements.
CL Answer
What is the difference between cysteine and cystine?
Find out the difference between cysteine and cystine amino acids, including where each is found and their functions.
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of coconut oil and medium chain triglycerides, such as those used in Bulletproof Coffee?
Learn the health benefits of coconut oil and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), including evidence from Bulletproof Coffee, clinical studies on obesity, skin, and Alzheimer's disease.
CL Answer
Does chocolate really cause migraines?
Find out if there is a link between chocolate/cocoa and migraines.
CL Answer
L-Tyrosine: Health Effects and Safety
Tyrosine has been evaluated for conditions including physical and mental stress, phenylketonuria (PKU), depression, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Find out if it works and if it's safe.
CL Answer
Immunocal is much more expensive than other whey protein isolates - is it worth the extra cost?
Find out how Immunocal, from Immunotec, compares to other whey protein isolates and understand it's costs.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
IBS supplements may help reduce irritable bowel symptoms such as pain, diarrhea and constipation. Supplements include probiotics, melatonin, and flaxseed.
CL Answer
Are there side effects from collagen supplements?
Find out if there are collagen side effects from supplements (collagen hydrolysate, collagen peptides, etc.) such as nausea, constipation, skin rash and others. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
News Release
July 21, 2010
Tests of "muscle enhancement" supplements show quality problems with some creatine and branched-chain amino acid products -- Review of Muscle Enhancement Supplements published by ConsumerLab.com
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — July 21, 2010 — Athletes often turn to supplements to enhance muscle strength and recovery. New tests of such supplements by ConsumerLab.
News Release
May 19, 2009
Review of Magnesium Supplements by ConsumerLab.com Shows One-Quarter Fail Quality Tests
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — MAY 19, 2009 — ConsumerLab.com reported today that among twelve magnesium supplements selected for testing, only nine met quality standards. One supplement contained only 45.
CL Answer
Can glycine improve sleep, reduce depression, or reduce nighttime urinary frequency?
Can glycine really help improve sleep, reduce depression, or reduce nighttime urinary frequency? Lean more about glycine and its uses and benefits.
CL Answer
I'm a vegan but my doctor wants me to take fish oil with EPA and DHA. Is there something I can take that would be as good as fish oil capsules but would satisfy the needs of a vegan?
Find out which vegan-friendly fatty acid supplements contain EPA and DHA and how they compare to fish oil.
Clinical Update
11/04/2024
Can you get too much protein?
Proteins provide essential amino acids, but some evidence suggests that getting high amounts of two specific amino acids from foods may increase the risk of heart disease. Learn how to limit exposure to these amino acids in our article: What’s the Best Way to Get High-Quality Protein from Food?
Also see our Top Picks in our Protein Powders Review.
Clinical Update
10/05/2018
Amino Acids After Knee Replacement?
Does taking amino acids after knee replacement surgery help maintain muscle volume, mobility, and strength? See what a recent study found in the What It Does section of the Muscle & Workout Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks in this category).
Clinical Update
1/24/2023
Exercise While Fasting
To build muscle and burn fat, some people exercise without having eaten since the prior day. Having some protein or amino acids around the time of exercise can help with building muscle – but what’s the best time to do that? Find out what research suggests, in our updated CL Answer about essential amino acids.
Also see: I do moderate exercise for about an hour a few times a week. Which supplements might help me?
Clinical Update
12/09/2017
Creatine Pumps Up Muscles
Giving creatine during a resistance-training program significantly boosted muscle size more than placebo in a recent study — and certain muscles increased in size more than others. Learn more in the "What It Does" section of the Muscle & Workout Supplements Review (Creatine & BCAAs). (Also see our Top Picks and Cautions and Concerns for creatine).
Clinical Update
4/09/2024
Creatine and Kidney Tests
Does taking creatine interfere with tests of kidney function that measure creatinine? Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Creatine and BCAAs Review, which includes our Top Picks for creatine and other workout supplements.
Also see our answer to the question: Which vitamins and supplements should be stopped before getting blood work and laboratory tests?
Clinical Update
9/04/2018
Glutamine for IBS?
Glutamine, an amino acid, plays a role in maintaining the digestive tract. Can taking it as a supplement help people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Find out what a recent study showed in the Glutamine section of the Muscle Enhancers Review.
Clinical Update
2/19/2019
Kidney Stones Due to Supplement?
An unusual type of kidney stone has been reported in several people who regularly consumed large amounts of a vitamin and amino acid supplement containing a particular form of choline and vitamin C. For details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Choline Supplements Review.
Clinical Update
5/15/2018
Casein at Night?
It has been suggested that casein protein be taken at bedtime because it is absorbed relatively slowly, providing a more continuous supply of amino acids throughout the night to maintain muscle. A study recently put this theory to the test. See the results in the Casein section of the Protein Powders Review. Also see our Top Picks among products.
Clinical Update
6/15/2018
Better Bone Broth
How a bone broth is prepared can significantly affect its content of amino acids - building blocks for muscle and collagen, according to a recent study. Learn how to find or make better bone broth in the ConsumerTips section of the Bone Broth Review. (Also see our Top Picks among bone broths.)
Clinical Update
10/15/2019
Collagen Peptides vs. Gelatin
It has been generally believed that amino acids are more bioavailable from hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides) than from gelatin (which is partially hydrolyzed collagen). A new study put this to the test. See what the researchers found in the What It Is section of the Collagen Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among collagen supplements.
Clinical Update
10/05/2021
Glycine for Urinary Frequency?
Can supplementation with the amino acid glycine improve symptoms of overactive bladder or reduce urinary frequency? See what a new study found in our updated answer to the question: Can glycine improve sleep or reduce nighttime urinary frequency?
Clinical Update
10/23/2021
How Good Is Pea Protein?
How does the amino acid quality and digestibility of pea protein compare to casein? Find out what a new study showed in the ConsumerTips section of our Protein Supplements Review, which also explains the differences between whey, soy, rice, and other sources of protein. Also see our Top Picks among protein powders, including our Top Pick for pea protein.
Clinical Update
12/20/2020
Probiotic for Protein Absorption?
Can a probiotic improve the absorption of amino acids from protein supplements? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Probiotic Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Picks for probiotics.
Clinical Update
9/16/2022
Are Plant Proteins Enough?
A CL Member asked if plant-based proteins provide all the essential amino acids people must get from their diet. Find out in the Protein section of our article: Top 8 Supplements for Vegetarians and Vegans.
Clinical Update
9/28/2022
Plant Protein Pairings
What are the best combinations of plant-based foods to ensure proper intake of essential amino acids? Find out in the ConsumerTips section of our Protein Supplements Review.
Clinical Update
8/05/2024
PerfectAmino for Muscles?
Is the essential amino acid product PerfectAmino better at making protein than other products because it includes DNA building blocks? Find out in our article about EAAs vs protein/protein supplements.
Clinical Update
2/06/2025
MCT Oil for Dandruff?
Is there evidence that applying medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil to the scalp reduces dandruff? Find out in the Skin and hair section of our Coconut Oil and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.
Recalls & Warnings
February 22, 2021
Canadian Creatine Recalled for Dangerous Levels of Vitamin D
On February 21, 2021, the Canadian company Genex Nutraceuticals recalled one lot of Perfect Sports Core Series Pure Creatine (also known as Creatine Powder) because it "contains vitamin D that is not listed on the label, at dangerous levels.
News Release
November 13, 2006
Tests of "muscle" supplements finds some "weak" products but most contain expected creatine, HMB, or amino acids — Review of muscular enhancement supplements published by ConsumerLab.com
WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK — MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2006 — Bodybuilders and athletes often turn to supplements to enhance muscle size and strength.
Recalls & Warnings
May 23, 2016
Amino Acid Supplements Recalled
On May 18, 2016, Ultimate Nutrition Inc. issued a recall of its Amino Gold amino acid tablets and capsules because they contain undeclared milk in the form of hydrolyzed whey protein.
Recalls & Warnings
September 15, 2013
Creatine Powder Containing DMAA Recalled
On September 12, 2013, Ge Pharma, LLC issued a recall of grape and fruit punch flavors of Creafuse Powder because they contain 1,3 dimethylamylamine (DMAA).
Recalls & Warnings
May 02, 2017
Seller of Amino Acid Supplements & More Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On April 20, 2017 the FDA issued a warning letter to Naturecom Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
November 11, 2014
Seller of Sexual, Muscle Enhancement Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims
On August 26, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to GE Pharma LLC following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Fire Burn, Fire Storm, Creatine, Amino Fire, Nitric Fire, Jet Fire, Oxy Fire, HGH, Cissus, Hydro shield, Performa-Test, Raspberry Ketones, Fire Drol, ...
Recalls & Warnings
April 29, 2014
Seller of B Vitamins, CoQ10, Amino Acids and Other Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims
On April 1, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bio-Recovery, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
September 10, 2012
Maker of Concussion Recovery Supplement Warned For Making Drug Claims
On August 28, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Trinity Sports Group, Inc. after a review of the company's websites found statements about Neuro Impact Concussion Response Formula constituted drug claims not permitted on supplements.
Recalls & Warnings
October 08, 2016
Seller of Cell Power and Super Silica Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Misbranding
On September 23, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to SSO, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
March 10, 2015
Seller of Vision Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims
On February 26, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Biosyntrx, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including BioTears Oral Gel Caps, ZoOmega-3 Concentrated Pharmaceutical-Grade Fish Oil, EpiCor A Nutrient-dense High Metabolite Immunogen, Sight C+ Mineral ...
Recalls & Warnings
June 24, 2014
CELLFOOD Recalled in Canada
On June 23, 2014, Health Canada recalled CELLFOOD (Nu Science), a supplement promoted for improved energy, endurance and natural health, because it was found to be an unauthorized health product.
Recalls & Warnings
August 28, 2013
Maker of Sexual Enhancement Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On July 11, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Precise Nutrition International Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
April 19, 2013
Recall: Protein Powder May Have Been Contaminated During Packaging
On March 14, 2013, F.H.G Corporation, dba Integrity Nutraceuticals, issued a voluntary recall of MusclePharm Cookies 'N" Cream Combat Powder and Banana Cream Combat Powder protein powders because they may be contaminated with extraneous materials due to problems on the packaging line.
Recalls & Warnings
August 09, 2012
FDA Warns Sports Nutrition Manufacturer of GMP Violations
On June 26, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Parrillo Performance subsequent to a manufacturing and packing facility inspection which found Parrillo products to be adulterated due to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) violations.
Recalls & Warnings
September 12, 2012
Distribution of Weight Loss Product Containing DMAA Should Be Stopped Immediately, Warns FDA
On August 28, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Regeneca stating that the company's RegeneSlim, which was promoted as a dietary supplement for weight loss, is adulterated with dimethylamylamine (DMAA) and that failure to immediately cease distribution of this product could result in FDA ...
Recalls & Warnings
August 01, 2013
Fat Loss and Muscle Enhancement Supplements Found To Contain DMAA
On June 17, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Formulife, Inc., dba Purus Labs, Inc., following a facility inspection which found the dietary supplements Fat Smack XR Thermolipolytic, Muscle Marinade Fresh Fruit and Muscle Marinade Cherry Limeade to contain DMAA.
Recalls & Warnings
February 10, 2018
Warning to D-Limonene, Vitamin C Seller
On January 31, 2018 the FDA issued a warning letter to Long Life Unlimited, LLC following a review of the company's website which found promotional statements and testimonials made about products including Balance 600, D-Limonene, Rapha Remedy, Rapha Remedy w/ p73 Wild Oregano, Vitamin C, ...
