Other names for Leucic acid

a-hydroxyisocaproic acid
akic
alphahica
{alpha}-hydroxyisocaprioic acid
{alpha}-hydroxyisocaproate calcium salt
alpha-hydroxy-isocaproic acid
alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid
alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid calcium
alpha-hydroxy-leucine calcium salt
alpha-hydroxy-leucine-calcium salt
alpha ketoisocaproate
alpha-ketoisocaproate
alpha-ketoisocaproate calcium
alpha ketoisocaproic acid
alpha-ketoisocaproic acid
alpha-ketoisocaproic acid calcium
alpha-ketoisocaproic calcium
alpha-ketoisocaroate
{alpha}-kic
alpha kic
calcium a-hydroxyisocaproic acid
calcium leucate
cornerstone
dl-a-hydroxyisocaproic acid
dl-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid
hica
hica dihydrate
hica-dl-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid
hydroxy-isocaproic acid
hydroxyisocaproic acid
ketoisocaproate
ketoisocaproate potassium
ketoisocaproic acid calcium
kic
l-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid calcium
l-alpha-ketoisocaproic acid calcium
leucic acid

Synopsis of Leucic acid

History

Leucic acid, also known as α-hydroxyisocaproic acid (HICA), has a noteworthy history in traditional and modern medicinal applications. Historically, leucic acid was primarily recognized as a natural metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine. While its direct use in ancient remedies is less documented compared to more prominent herbal extracts, its presence in fermented foods and certain plant sources indirectly contributed to various folk remedies aimed at enhancing vitality and muscular health. Traditional healers in some cultures valued foods rich in leucine and its metabolites, leveraging their muscle-supporting properties to help individuals recover from physical exertion or illness.

In modern times, leucic acid has gained recognition for its significant contributions to sports nutrition and muscle wellness. Research highlights its potential to support muscle recovery, reduce muscle breakdown, and promote lean muscle mass—attributes that have made it a valuable ingredient in nutritional supplements for athletes and active individuals. Its positive effects on muscle health have led to its inclusion in post-workout formulas and recovery blends.

Leucic acid is also sometimes combined with herbal ingredients such as ashwagandha, turmeric, and adaptogenic herbs in contemporary wellness products. Such combinations are designed to synergistically promote muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, and support overall physical performance. These herbal blends harness the strengths of both traditional herbal wisdom and modern nutritional science, offering comprehensive support for those seeking to optimize physical health.

Overall, leucic acid’s contributions to medicinal and nutritional practices are highly valued, especially for its role in enhancing muscle health and recovery. Its integration into herbal and modern formulations exemplifies the innovative approaches being used to support wellness and vitality today.

Traditional and scientific validation

Leucic acid, also known as α-hydroxyisocaproic acid (HICA), is a metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine. Traditionally, leucine and its derivatives have been recognized for their role in muscle metabolism and protein synthesis, making leucic acid an ingredient of interest in nutritional supplements, particularly for athletes and individuals seeking to enhance muscle recovery and growth.

Historically, leucic acid has garnered attention due to its structural similarity to leucine and its potential as an anti-catabolic agent. Early research, predominantly from Finland, explored HICA’s effects on muscle mass and performance. In a 2010 study, supplementation with HICA in soccer players over four weeks was associated with increased lean body mass and reduced muscle soreness compared to placebo. Further investigations suggested that HICA may help attenuate delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and support muscle recovery following intensive exercise.

Scientifically, the mechanisms underlying leucic acid’s effects are thought to involve the modulation of muscle protein breakdown and support of anabolic processes. However, while these early findings are promising, the existing clinical evidence remains limited, with most studies featuring small sample sizes and short durations. More rigorous, large-scale trials are needed to fully validate its efficacy and safety profile.

Despite the need for additional research, leucic acid is generally well-tolerated and continues to be incorporated in sports nutrition products. Its potential to aid in muscle recovery and preserve lean mass makes it a noteworthy supplement for individuals engaged in regular physical activity.

This ingredient is used for these health conditions

None

This ingredient is used to support these body systems

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Products containing Leucic acid

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.