From health coaches to bodybuilders, everyone is talking about BCAA supplements these days. These supplements are nothing but an additional dose of a group of essential amino acids that our body requires for protein synthesis. This means, if you want to build muscles, have a good physique, and overcome fatigue during work out, then incorporating an extra helping of BCAAs to your daily diet is a good idea.
We categorize BCAAs under the ’essential group of amino acids’ because our body does not make any of it. We have to depend on external sources to obtain it. But it is a crucial ingredient for protein synthesis. So, people with a very active lifestyle or who hit the gym regularly need it in more quantity.
The market is swamped with nutraceutical products these days. Hence, it becomes a difficult task to find a suitable BCAA supplement for yourself. To find a quality product, always look at the following three factors.
- BCAAs Per Serving: Studies show that BCAA intake between 4g to 20g per day is permissible. If you are just a beginner, a dose of 5g per day should be good for you. If you are into regular exercise, then you need more BCAAs.
- Product Quantity: It is better to purchase a product that suffices for at least a month. Multiple purchases can be a bit of a hassle.
- Flavor: Always choose a flavor to your liking. You cannot possibly continue to drink something you don’t like. The flavor of the BCAA Powder is extremely important if you want to continue taking the health supplement.
To cater to the need of the health-freak people from India, we have put together a list of the top 10 BCAA supplements. And with that, we have also added a detailed BUYING GUIDE and FAQ where you can find many other important factors that you should consider before taking BCAA supplements.
10 Top 10 BCAA Supplements in India 2021
BCAA Alternative | Qty | Value | Flavor | Buy Now |
---|---|---|---|---|
Optimum Nutrition | 270g | 5g | Raspberry | Check The Price |
Bigmuscles Nutrition | 250g | 5g | Pineapple | Check The Price |
MuscleBlaze | 450g | 7g | Mix Fruit | Check The Price |
Scivation Xtend | 450g | 7g | Watermelon | Check The Price |
Naturyz Instantized | 450g | 7g | Blueberry Mojito | Check The Price |
AS-IT-IS Nutrition | 250g | 5g | Flavorless | Check The Price |
Healthvit | 200g | 6g | Tangy Orange | Check The Price |
Advance MuscleMass | 200g | 7.6g | Orange | Check The Price |
Grizzly Nutrition | 350g | 6g | Mild lemon | Check The Price |
MusclePharm | 258g | 6g | Fruit punch | Check The Price |
Top 10 BCAA Supplements in India 2021 Reviews
01.) Optimum Nutrition (ON) Amino Energy BCAA Drink
Optimum Nutrition BCAA supplement is a tried and tested product that has fetched fabulous results for many bodybuilders. If you look up online for this product, you will find thousands of positive reviews. It is one of the best BCAA supplements in India.
It has valine, leucine, and isoleucine in the recommended ratio of 2:1:1. This product contains micronized free-form amino acids that are easy for the body to absorb. Each serving for this BCAA powder is two scoops that will replenish your body with 5g of amino acids. It will keep you energized as each serving contains 100g caffeine and 50g green tea extracts.
If you are trying to gain lean muscle, then this might be an ideal choice. It contains zero sugar and just ten calories per serving, which equals eating one cup of romaine lettuce. This health supplement provides anti-catabolic support to your body to prevent the muscle from breaking down. This also gives intra-workout hydration to you and supports the recovery of your body after workout sessions.
A good thing about Optimum Nutrition BCAA drink is that you can choose to take multiple scoops per day. A moderate serving would be two scoops for this product, but if you want more energy because your gym sessions are more intense, then you can increase the dose up to 6 scoops per day. You can take it before workouts, during workouts, and within 45 minutes post-workouts for muscle gain and recovery.
Directions: Mix two scoops of the powder with 350ml water. For four scoops, mix it with 700ml of water, and if you are taking six scoops, then the amount of liquid should be 1050ml.
When to take: Before, during, and shortly after workouts.
Key Points:
- Net Quantity:270g
- Flavor:Raspberry
- BCAA Ratio:2:1:1
- Serving Size:2 to 6 scoops per day
- Is it Vegetarian? Yes
- Contains caffeine and green tea extracts
Pros:
- Energizes during workout
- Assists speedy recovery of muscles
- Contains no sugar
- Fights against muscle loss
- Adjustable dosages
- Contains caffeine and green tea extracts
Cons:
- More number of daily servings
- Contains soy
02.) Bigmuscles Nutrition Real BCAA Supplement
Bigmuscles is India’s leading nutraceutical brand that makes one of the Best BCAA supplements. This product is the ideal choice for vegans or people following a keto diet for reaching their weight goal. It contains 100%micronized amino acids for easy absorption and quick effects.
Per serving of this powder contains 2500mg Leucine, 1250mg isoleucine, and 1250mg valine. The BCAA ratio is 2: 1: 1, which makes it one of the best BCAA powders for bodybuilders and athletes. It supports lean muscle gain and does not let fatigue take over. It’s your best friend during workout sessions.
The Bigmuscles BCAA supplement does not contain any sugar, carbs, or calories. You can rely on it to give you the optimum amount of energy without adding any harmful substance to your body as it has been thoroughly tested and certified by GMP.
Per scoop contains 5g of real BCAA. You can double the amount if you like, but do not exceed two scoops per day. Mixing it with any beverage of your choice is easy as it has a no clump formula. It is an intra-workout drink that you should hydrate your body with as you work out.
Directions: Mix one scoop of BCAA powder with 300ml of water or any other beverage. If you are taking two scoops of this supplement a day, then double the amount of liquid.
When to take: Intra-workout
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 250g
- Flavor: Tropical Madness (Pineapple)
- BCAA Ratio: 2: 1: 1
- Serving Size: 1 to 2 scoops per day
- Is it Vegetarian? Yes, Vegan
- No clump formula
Pros:
- Supports lean muscle development
- Prevents muscle breakdown
- Zero calories per drink
- Compatible with the vegan diet
- Contains no sugar or carbohydrates
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Product packaging can be better
03.) MuscleBlaze BCAA Pro Amino Acid Powder
MuscleBlaze is another of India’s nutraceutical brands that produce one of the finest BCAA supplements. It is a reasonable product that will fit anyone’s budget. What’s great about this is, it comes in a large pack of 450g and has many flavor options. We think that the ‘Fruit Splash’ flavor is the best of all. However, you can choose any flavor you like.
MuscleBlaze pro is an intra-workout BCAA supplement. Per serving of this powder packs 3.5g of Leucine, 1.75g of isoleucine, and 1.75g valine. It forms a perfect ratio of 2:1:1. It is ideal for muscle training and bodybuilding. Even if you are doing intense workouts, a single serving of this should suffice for the day.
Apart from the branched-chain amino acids, it also contains two other non-essential amino acids— L-Glutamine and L-citrulline. The former is excellent for minimizing catabolism and maintaining the integrity of your intestinal walls. The latter helps immensely in blood circulation. It contains electrolytes and a bit of carbohydrate, which is functional in replenishing your body with proper hydration and providing more energy.
The packet has 450g of pure BCAA powder. One serving consists of a single scoop, which is 15g powder. For beginners, the ideal dosage of this BCAA powder is one scoop. If you are a pro bodybuilder, you might take up to two scoops. You must note that this product is hygroscopic. Which means, they draw moisture from the air. They might form lumps when mixed with water.
Directions: For each scoop (15g), mix it with 250 to 400 of chilled water. If you are taking two scoops, then double the amount of water. We do not recommend mixing it with any other liquid.
When to take: Intra-workout
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 450g
- Flavor:Mix fruit
- BCAA Ratio: 2:1:1
- Serving Size: 1 to 2 scoops per day
- Is it Vegetarian?Yes
- Contains L-glutamine and L-citrulline
Pros:
- Assists in bodybuilding
- Prevents catabolism
- Suitable for intense workouts
- Helps in blood circulation
- Keep you hydrated
Cons:
- Might form clumps
04.) Scivation Xtend BCAAs
The Scivation Xtend BCAA powder is a superb way to harness powder and grind through the most intense gym sessions without consuming any sugar or carbohydrate. This is a world-famous brand that has been certified by athletes, bodybuilders, and powerlifters.
Each serving of this supplement contains 7g of BCAAs. It will assist your body to train longer and harder, which helps form more lean muscle. The 2.5g L-Glutamine content prevents muscle breakdown and helps the intracellular amino acid metabolism.
It also promotes healthy blood circulation and reduces fatigue because it has citrulline malate. This supplement shields you from dehydration as a sufficient quantity of electrolyte has been infused into the blend.
The Scivation Xtend BCAA pack contains 450 grams of powder. You just have to take one scoop a day. This means that one pack is more than sufficient to last throughout the month. Also, it mixes very easily in water owing to its no-clump formula.
Directions: Mix one scoop (13.5g) with water of room temperature and take it 15 minutes before you hit the gym.
When to take: Before workout sessions
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 450g
- Flavor:Watermelon
- BCAA Ratio: 2: 1: 1
- Serving Size: 1 scoop per day
- Is it Vegetarian?Yes
- Contains L-glutamine, citrulline malate, and electrolytes
Pros:
- Great for lean muscle formation
- Does not let fatigue take over
- Maintains body hydration
- Just one serving per day
- Does not contain sugar or carbs
- Gives outstanding results
Cons:
- A bit costly
05.) Naturyz Instantized BCAA Energy Blast
The Naturyz instantized BCAA drink is one of the best products to supply energy to your body even during the most grueling workouts. It is in a fully instantized form, making it very easy to absorb. This formula contains everything that your body needs to form muscles when you work out.
Each serving of this BCAA supplement contains 3.5g L-leucine, 1.75g L-isoleucine, and 1.759 valine, which combine to give you a massive amount of 7g of BCAA every day. It is one of the favorite products of powerlifters, bodybuilders, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts.
As India is a tropical country, staying hydrated is essential. This BCAA product takes care of your hydration needs as it has electrolytes in the blend. Other non-essential amino acids that this supplement contains are 1g beta-alanine, 2.5g L-glutamine, and 1g L-citrulline. These shields you from muscle loss post-workout and prevents fatigue from taking over. It does not contain any amount of sugar or carbs.
The package contains 450g of powder, and each serving is about 15 grams. It is available in two flavors— guava and blueberry mojito. We think that the blueberry mojito is more refreshing and soothing to the taste buds.
Directions: Mix one scoop of powder in 350ml of chilled water or any cold beverage of your choice and take it during your workout sessions.
When to take it: Intra-workout
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 450g
- Flavor: Blueberry Mojito
- BCAA Ratio: 2:1:1
- Serving Size: 1 scoop per day
- Is it Vegetarian? Yes
- Contains L-glutamine, L-citrulline, beta-alanine, and electrolytes
Pros:
- Supplies energy
- Supports muscle growth
- Increases endurance
- Hydrates body
- Synthesizes amino acid faster
- Refreshing flavor
Cons:
- Only two flavor options
06.) AS-IT-IS Nutrition BCAA 100% Pure Powder
As-It-Is is an Indian brand that promotes 100% pure supplements. None of the As-it-is products contain any preservatives, additives, or taste enhancers. It is one of the quality-brands that manufactures nutraceutical products at an affordable price.
The As-it-is BCAA supplement contains 2.5g L-leucine, 1.25g L-valine, and 1.25g L-isoleucine. It increases your endurance and provides an immense boost to your system while you workout in the gym. The perfect ratio of BCAAs synthesizes protein well and supports lean muscle development.
This BCAA supplement does not contain any gluten, soy, dairy, carbs, or sugar. It is an ideal product for people who have a different kind of allergies or are lactose intolerant. Which means, it packs all the benefits of BCAAs and does not have any side-effects.
The quantity of this packet is 250 grams. You might think it is less compared to all other brands so far, but the serving quantity is only 5 grams, which makes one pack last for 50 servings. It is completely flavorless, which means you can easily mix this powder with any drink of your choice. Most athletes and bodybuilders prefer to blend it with protein shakes before workouts.
Directions: Dissolve one spoon of powder with 250ml to 300ml water or any protein shake. Keep stirring till it completely dissolves. Then drink it 30 minutes before workouts, or immediately after it.
When to take: Before or after workouts
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 250g
- Flavor: Flavorless
- BCAA Ratio: 2:1:1
- Serving Size: 1 scoop a day
- Is it Vegetarian? Yes
Pros:
- Builds endurance
- Helps in protein synthesis
- 100% pure BCAAs
- Longer shelf life
- Very affordable
- Does not contain any preservatives, additives or taste enhancers
Cons:
- You might need a blender to mix it
07.) Healthvit Fitness BCAA
Healthvit Fitness is one of the best BCAA supplements that helps in muscle recovery, increases endurance, and supports muscle formation. It is one of the most cost-effective products on this list that takes care of all your workout needs.
It enters your bloodstream faster and starts effecting promptly. The BCAA value per serving of the Healthvit fitness is 6g. There are two other non-essential amino acids in this blend that help in the overall process of protein synthesis and blood circulation. It is available in four flavors— tangy orange, fruit punch, watermelon, and pineapple. We liked the tangy orange flavor the most.
If you want to build muscles, then there is something you have to do apart from taking your general healthy diet. The intense exercises that you do regularly require you to have a lot of energy. You can assist your body and replenish it with sufficient BCAAs to prevent muscle loss and boost strength.
The pack contains 200g BCAA powder, and the size of each serving is 19.75g. If you are a beginner at muscle building, then the recommended dosage for you is one scoop per day. In case you are a pro, then take two servings per day. Although it is a great supplement, the only downside is that one pack will last a maximum of 10 days.
Directions: Mix one heaping scoop with 400ml cold water or any cold beverage. Keep drinking a sufficient amount of water while you exercise.
When to take it: Before workouts
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 200g
- Flavor: Tangy orange
- BCAA Ratio: 2:1:1
- Serving Size: 1 to 2 scoops per day
- Is it Vegetarian? Yes
Pros:
- Instant muscle recovery
- Reduced fatigue
- Prevents muscle loss
- Good flavor
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Each pack lasts just ten days
08.) Advance MuscleMass Energy drink for Workout
If you are looking for a cost-effective BCAA supplement that does its work well, then the Advance MuscleMass energy drink should fit the bill. It contains a powerful kick of the branch chained amino acids in 2:1:1 ratio. The FSSAI certification on the pack indicates its quality and safety for consumption.
3.9g Leucine, 1.8g isoleucine, and 1.8g valine are there per serving of this potent health drink. It packs a whopping amount of 7.6g of pure BCAAs per serving. Your body will get great support in forming lean muscle, protein synthesis, and muscle recovery. You can also bank on this to not let your muscle breakdown post work out.
Although it contains added sweeteners, you can be sure that there is no sugar. Hence, health-freaks and people with diabetes can safely consume it. There is a small amount of sunflower lecithin that improves liver function. Also, if you have sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts, sunflower lecithin can help the cause.
The pack contains 200g of BCAAs. Per serving contains 8g of these essential amino acids. If you aren’t accustomed to intense workouts, then one scoop per day will be good for you. Advanced level bodybuilders, weight trainers, and athletes may take up to two helpings.
Direction: Take one scoop (8g) of the energy drink powder and mix it with 200ml of cold water. You can also use any other cold beverage if you like.
When to take: Prior-workout, intra-workout, post-workout
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 200g
- Flavor:Orange
- BCAA Ratio:2:1:1
- Serving Size: 1 to 2 scoops daily
- Is it Vegetarian?Yes
- Contains sunflower lecithin
Pros:
- Packs strong dose of BCAAs
- Helps in building strong muscle
- Give strength
- Good mixability
- Sunflower lecithin is good for the liver.
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Might be too sweet for some people
09.) Grizzly Nutrition-Pure Bcaa
If you are looking for a Vegan BCAA supplement, then we have it here for you. This is one of the best BCAA products in India right now. This product by Grizzly nutrition is 100% pure BCAA and contains no-fluff. You can rely on it to energize you instantly while helping your body to build and recover muscle strength.
You get 4g leucine, 1g isoleucine, and 1g valine. So, the BCAA ratio is 4:1:1. It delivers more leucine, which is instrumental in protein synthesis. This supplement is free from all synthetic and doping agents. It contains natural lemon extracts that render it a mild lemon flavor.
No wonder it gives a healthy boost to your body, but making a health drink with it can take a while. You will have to use a blender to make a shake. Also, the powder is hygroscopic and will form clump if you do not store properly.
The pack contains 250g pure BCAA powder. Each serving is about 6.5g. And so, one pack will last for 53 days, which is great because you don’t have to make multiple purchases for quite a while.
Direction: Take one scoop (6.5g) powder and mix it with 400 to 500ml water. You can double the serving if you are into grueling training sessions. We recommend you use a blender or a shaker to mix the powder as it takes time to dissolve.
When to take: Intra-workout
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 350g
- Flavor: mild lemon
- BCAA Ratio: 4:1:1
- Serving Size: 1 to 2 scoops per day
- Is it Vegetarian? yes
- No artificial ingredients
Pros:
- Very effective in building muscle mass
- Safe and tested by FSSAI
- Restores muscles
- No artificial ingredients
- Reduces tiredness
Cons:
- Takes a while for dissolving
- Taste is not the best
10) MusclePharm Essentials BCAA Powder
Musclepharm is an American nutraceutical company that manufactures quality supplements at a relatively reasonable price. This product by Musclepharm has a unique BCAA ratio that has delivered exceptional results to numerous athletes, weight trainers, bodybuilders, and pageant models.
This health supplement contains L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine in the ratio of 3:1:2. The brand considers this ratio to be ideal, and many health experts swear by it. This ratio of BCAAs helps deliver the perfect quantity of amino acids to your muscles during all the phases of your workout.
This BCAA supplement does not contain any carbohydrates or sugar and so, is a healthy choice to add to your training sessions. It is fairly soluble in water and has artificial flavorings. You can rely on the quality of this BCAA powder as it goes through numerous tests before it you get it.
The packet contains 258g of BCAA powder. Each serving of it roughly contains 8.6g products. If you do the simple calculations, then each pack will last a whole month. The blue raspberry flavor has a soothing taste. But if you do not add enough liquid, it might taste a tad sweeter than you would like.
Directions: Mix one scoop of BCAA with 250 to 350ml of water and enjoy the amazing fruity taste of this health drink.
When to take: Pre-workout, intra-workout, post-workout
Key Points:
- Net Quantity: 258g
- Flavor: Fruit punch
- BCAA Ratio: 3:1:2
- Serving Size: 1 scoop a day
- Is it Vegetarian? No
Pros:
- Great for lean muscle gain
- Helps in muscle recovery
- Unique BCAA ratio
- Easily soluble
Cons:
- More suitable for gym-goers and athletes
Best BCAA Supplements in India 2021 : Buying Guide
Various factors of a health supplement decide its suitability and effectiveness. If you are looking for the best BCAA supplement for yourself, then make sure to consider the following factors before you buy a product.
Composition
BCAA is a collective name given to a cluster of three essential amino acids— leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Hence, any brand you buy will have these three as the top ingredients. The ideal ratio of these acids is 2:1:1.
Some of the better brands pack a few non-essential amino acids like L-glutamine, L-citrulline, beta-alanine too. Some brands also throw in electrolyte, and vitamin B6 into the blend. These are great additions to the health formula that help protein synthesis and take care of several internal organs. Hence, looking at the composition of the BCAA supplement is necessary.
Ease of Taking
BCAA supplement is available in powder and pill forms. You can choose the type that you think would be easier for you to take. The pills take a bit of time in showing effects, whereas powders are faster. However, BCAA powders are tad cumbersome as you have to take care of their storage and carefully measure out the quantity before making every drink. But the chances of fillers and additives in powder are lesser.
Pills are way more convenient. Popping one and gulping it down with water will take less than a few seconds. But, they aren’t as fast in showing effects. So, you might have to pause a bit before you can hit the gym, or before the overpowering fatigue wears off.
Mixability
This factor is only for people who want to settle for BCAAs in powder form. Choose an easily soluble product. Ideally, it should take just a few seconds to dissolve. Also, avoid BCAA power that tends to form lumps, it can take quite a while to mix those.
Most of the BCAA supplement powders would recommend you to use water for making a drink. However, it is always better if you get a product that you can mix with milk or your protein shake. It will save time and hassle of putting together another drink separately for your BCAA requirement.
Rate of Absorption
The best BCAA supplements have a fast rate of absorption. It should infuse into your bloodstream within minutes and start affecting your body soon. This is one of the reasons many health experts prefer BCAA powder over the tablet form. The tablets take several minutes more than the powder as they have to dissolve in your stomach first.
Flavor
The flavor matters a lot. If you get stuck with a product that has a bad taste, you will sooner or later discontinue taking it. No one likes anything that tastes bad. Besides, you are paying money for these products, and hence, you are entitled to a BCAA product that tastes good. So, always take a look at the flavor before you make any purchase. Most of these health drinks are available in multiple flavors. Choose the one that you like.
Shelf Life
Choose a BCAA supplement that has a good shelf life. If we take the dynamics of demand and supply into account, it takes about three to four months for these products to reach the customer’s hands after production. So, choosing a product that has a longer shelf life is better. A shelf-life of 12 to 18 months is good enough.
If you are a beginner, getting motivation is a big thing. For some, it takes a while. Hence, you should always keep the option for procrastination in view. And in case you take a few more months to begin training, the BCAA powder will not go to waste.
Potential Allergen
BCAA supplements might contain ingredients like gluten, soy, and dairy. Never forget to check the ingredient list. It will help you know whether it includes anything that might trigger an allergic reaction in you.
Price
While buying a product, we advise you not to exceed what your pocket permits. You must understand that this is not a one-time thing. You will have to make recurrent purchases to get the physique of your dreams. Hence, sticking to a budget is the best idea.
It is a general notion that the costlier the product is, the better is its quality. This might be true in some cases, but it is not necessarily so all the time. If you search enough and look in the right places, you can find many affordable BCAA supplements that fetch great results.
Best BCAA Supplement in India 2021 : FAQs
What do BCAAs do?
Bodybuilders, athletes, and people who have a very active lifestyle need more of these acids to build muscles and prevent catabolism, or muscle loss. BCAAs energizes your body and give relief to the sore muscles.
Should I take BCAAs every day?
The answer is ‘yes.’ It would help if you took BCAAs every day to prevent catabolism or muscle loss. So, unless you plan on leaving exercising and leading a sedentary lifestyle, taking BCAAs, even on days you are not working out, is the better option.
What are the Best BCAAs brands?
It is why we came up with the best BCAA supplements that actually deliver results:
Optimum Nutrition (ON) Amino Energy BCAA Drink
Bigmuscles Nutrition Real BCAA Supplement
MuscleBlaze BCAA Pro Amino Acid Powder
Scivation Xtend BCAAs
Naturyz Instantized BCAA Energy Blast
AS-IT-IS Nutrition BCAA 100% Pure Powder
Do they help you lose weight?
What are the side-effects of taking a BCAA supplement?
The common side-effects of taking too much BCAAs are:
Nausea
Feeling of fullness
Resistance to insulin
Fatigue
Headache
A problem in limb coordination
Conclusion :
We highly recommend BCAAs to people who suffer from fatigue, want a sculpted physique, and aims to develop lean muscle. This is why we have researched quite a lot before composing this list of the best BCAA supplements in India.
We suggest the Optimum Nutrition (ON) Amino Energy BCAA Drink to all who still aren’t sure which product would be best for them. This BCAA powder gives excellent results in all the spheres BCAA can impact the human body. It also allows you to adjust the dose to your liking. If the price is not an issue for you, then go for this one.
Did you find this article on BCAAs helpful? Do let us know in the comment section below. Also, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to write, we shall reply soon.
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