Leucine

A group collectively known as the branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine) have garnered a great deal of scientific investigation over the years. This has mostly been because of their unique ability to be used for energy directly by the muscle itself. All protein has the potential to be used for energy however with all other amino acids this involves transport to the liver, conversion to glucose via the metabolic pathway of gluconeogenesis and release back into the blood stream. Because of their ability it has been theorized that branched chain amino acids maybe a helpful fuel during exercise (particularly endurance exercise). Unfortunately, actual studies have not yielded consistent results and in fact, most have shown little or no positive effect of ingesting branched chain amino acids on endurance performance. However one of the branched chain amino acids has been distinguishing itself from the others – and for a reason unrelated to energy metabolism. Leucine h
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