Possible Side Effects of Branch Chain Amino Acid

Supplementing with branch chain amino acid decreases protein degradation in the muscles. Additional studies have shown that supplementation with a metabolite of leucine (HMB) led to lower levels of enzymes that indicate muscle damage. For the most part, BCAAs are harmless, and most experts suggest that habitual supplementation increases their effectiveness. However, as with anything, excess use can have potential negative side effects. Plus, BCAAs are contraindicated for people with certain conditions. Side effects of extreme BCAA consumption can include fatigue, loss of coordination, nausea, headaches, and increased insulin resistance which can lead to Type 2 diabetes. BCAAs may affect blood sugar levels, so anyone having surgery should avoid them for a period of time before and after surgery. Although BCAAs were once thought to be helpful in the treatment of Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), they are now considered problematic for people with this disease. People with a condition called branched-chain keto-aciduria, kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, and people who drink alcohol in excess should also avoid BCAA supplementation. BCAA side effects are associated with the question of when to take BCAA. In the case of specific treatment or fitness regime, BCAA supplements can be taken orally for up to six months. It does not show notable side effects until prolonged duration of intake.

The possible side effects may include:

Avoid taking Branch chain amino acid foods or supplements pre or post- surgery
It is best to avoid taking BCAA supplements during surgery period or after surgery immediately because BCAA might intervene with glucose levels in your body. You may not be able to control blood sugar levels in your body so it is best to avoid it two weeks prior, if you are scheduled for a surgery around that time.

For pregnant or lactating women
There are no such safety guidelines on pregnant or lactating women who could use BCAA supplements so it is best to avoid during pregnancy. BCAA side effects are not suitable for women in these periods of time. 

Chronic alcoholism
For chronic alcoholic people taking BCAA may not be conducive as it can cause liver-related problems and increase chances of damaging brain functions such as hepatic encephalopathy.

Lowers blood sugar for children
Taking BCAA rich foods is ideally considered safe for children. But there have been studies that showed BCAA side effects such as leucine could lower blood sugar levels in children or infants. This is a condition called idiopathic hypoglycemia and the causes could be that BCAA leucine helps secrete insulin from the pancreas thus lowering blood sugar levels.

Avoid if mental or physical conditions prevail
If branched-chain components such as these amino acids are taken in large quantities then chances of seizures or mental impediments can occur. It is best not to use BCAA supplements if pre-conditions for seizures or other mental or physical impediments prevail. 

As essential amino acids, our bodies do not produce branch chain amino acids naturally. Therefore, we need to get Branch chain amino acid from our diets. Most people get plenty of these essential amino acids from eating protein-rich foods such as lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, Greek yogurt, brown rice, quinoa, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and a variety of nuts. But for those on restrictive diets who don’t get enough protein, and subsequently enough branch chain amino acid, from natural whole food sources, supplementation is important. Supplementation is also common among athletes, for the numerous reasons outlined above.