Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)—leucine, isoleucine, and valine—have been studied for their potential to support or treat muscle wasting (cachexia) associated with chronic illnesses such as cancer, liver disease, and renal failure. The rationale stems from the fact that BCAAs are essential amino acids important for muscle protein synthesis and can serve as an energy source for muscles during periods of catabolic stress.

Clinical research offers moderate support for BCAA supplementation in wasting conditions. Some studies, particularly in patients with liver cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy, have shown that BCAA supplementation can improve nitrogen balance, help preserve lean body mass, and improve some clinical outcomes. In cancer cachexia, results are mixed: a few trials have reported modest improvements in protein synthesis and lean mass, but others have not found significant clinical benefits. In chronic renal failure, BCAAs have shown some benefit in nutritional status but are not universally recommended.

Overall, while BCAAs are not a cure for wasting conditions, there is moderate scientific evidence for their use as a supportive therapy, particularly in specific populations such as those with liver disease. Guidelines from some hepatology societies endorse BCAA supplementation in certain cases. However, the level of evidence is not robust across all wasting-inducing diseases, and more large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to confirm efficacy and define optimal use.

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