Do essential amino acid (EAA) supplements help build muscle better than dietary protein or protein supplements?

Answer:

Although essential amino acids (EAAs) are the building blocks of protein, for most people there is no evidence that consuming free EAAs helps build muscle better than consuming "complete" or "high-quality" protein, that is, protein that contains all essential amino acids.

Sign in as a member for details, including information about which individuals may benefit more from EAAs than proteins and how the effects of EAAs on muscle protein synthesis compare to branched chain amino acids (BCAAs). Also, find out if EAAs are beneficial for boosting production of new muscle when taken after fasted exercise, and learn if taking EAAs along with nucleic acid building blocks (as in PerfectAmino by BodyHealth) is more beneficial than taking EAAs alone.

Also, for information about the pros and cons of different types of protein found in supplements — including whey, casein, soy, and rice and their various marketed forms (such as concentrates, isolates, hydrolysates, and ion-exchange purified products) — see the ConsumerTips section of our Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review. The Review includes our tests and comparison of popular protein powders and our Top Picks among them. Also see our Protein Bars Review.