Machado, O., & Borges, E. (2014). The influence of branched-chain amino-acid leucine on muscular strength and hypertrophy. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 46(5), Supplement abstract number 1796.

The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of supplementation with the branched-chain amino-acid leucine on body composition in practicing male resistance exercisers. Ss averaged five days per week of workouts. Ss were divided randomly into two groups: those (N = 9) supplemented with leucine (0.1g/kg day for 30 days) and those (N = 9) supplemented with maltodextrin (0.1 g/kg/day).

After 30 days, those supplemented with maltodextrin did not obtain a significant increase in muscle strength. In contrast, the leucine group showed a statistically significant difference. Anthropometric evaluation also noted differences between the experimental and placebo groups. The maltodextrin group did not change while the leucine group demonstrated a significant increase.

Implication. Short-term supplementation with the branched-chain amino-acid leucine results in increased muscle strength, while making some contribution to muscle hypertrophy.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.