Branched chain amino acid

Branched chain amino acids or BCAAs are a group of amino acids often sold as nutritional supplements. The three branched chain amino acids are valine, leucine and isoleucine.

Evidence
Limited studies of BCAA supplementation have shown BCAAs reduce pain from Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) caused by excessive muscle use in untrained healthy adults, BCAA supplementation reduced muscle damage during both muscle overuse and endurance exercise. However, DOMS occurs is healthy people and is not the same as post-exertional malaise.

Risks and side effects
Clinical trials of increased dietary BCAAs or BCAA supplements have not been carried out in ME/CFS patients. Risks, safety, side effects and potential benefits are unknown.