Branched-Chain Amino Acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of life. They can be categorized as being essential or nonessential. Essential amino acids must come from the diet, while nonessential amino acids can be made in the body. Of the essential amino acids, there is a subgroup called the ‘branched chain amino acids (BCAAs).’ There are three BCAAs: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These three amino acids have different molecular structures and important metabolic activity. In this episode, we discuss the clinical importance of BCAA and how to interpret BCAA levels in context with organic acids. Today on The Lab Report: 2:50 Let’s Define Some Terms! 5:10 The unique metabolism of BCAAs 6:30 BCAAs effects on the brain, muscle, and insulin resistance 12:30 What do we think we know? BCAAs and immunity 16:10 Measuring and interpreting amino acid patterns 17:55 Relating BCAA levels to urinary organic acids 21:00 Logical Speculation: Urinary alpha-keto acids and ketosis Additional Resources: NutrEval Metabolomix + Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: [email protected]. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.