Branched-Chain Amino Acids Reduce Obesity Risk

The branched-chain amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine are major players in metabolism that affect appetite, metabolic rate, and fuel use during exercise. A study from the University of North Carolina showed that people consuming larger amounts of branched-chain amino acids in their diets reduced their risk of obesity by 3 to 30 percent, depending upon their ethnicity and where they lived. Based on the results of this study, we can infer that consuming more branched-chain amino acids either in the diet or supplements might promote weight control and prevent obesity. (Journal of Nutrition, 141: 249-254, 2011)