Of the 20 amino acids mentioned above, there are 3 amino acids which are critically important for muscle building. They are called Branched Chain Amino Acids, or BCAAs.

The reason they are so important is because of Leucine. This amino acid is directly responsible for stimulating protein synthesis. What is that, you might ask? It’s a biological process that’s a direct trigger of muscle growth.

The signaling pathway for this is known as the mTOR pathway and is the main protein synthesis regulator. The mTOR pathway can “sense” environmental signals, including intense exercise and nutritional signals, such as the BCAAs. These signals increase the processes of the body that lead to muscle growth.

Leucine is one of the BCAAs, which are also Essential Amino Acids or EEAs. The EAAs are amino acids the body cannot make, so they must come from your diet and supplements. Leucine also comprises approximately 8% of your body’s total amino acid content. Plus, it is among the most concentrated amino acids in your muscles.^(2,3,4)

Isoleucine is important for muscle growth by supporting protein synthesis, the production of hemoglobin, and post-workout recovery.⁽⁵⁾

This BCAA supports protein synthesis and helps regulate energy production.⁽⁴⁾

An important point about the EAAs is that while Leucine is the primary driver of protein synthesis, all of them support Leucine’s role in this process. That makes an amino supplement like Code Red Series Amino even more important.

Taurine is not an EAA, but it is a type of amino acid. You usually see it in energy drinks because it supports positive mental function. It also pulls water into your muscle cells, creating water-based muscle pumps and hydrating your muscles.⁽⁷⁾

This is not an essential amino acid, but it does become essential in times of stress, making it a conditionally essential amino acid. That’s because stress depletes the body’s levels of Glutamine. Stress includes the physical stress of working out. Also, Glutamine is the most dominant amino acid in muscle tissue. It supports protein synthesis and recovery. Also, it helps preserve muscle tissue in times of calorie restriction.⁽⁸⁾

Lysine fights fatigue and supports protein synthesis. It also has several cardiovascular benefits.⁽⁹⁾

Threonine helps the body absorb protein and helps the body maintain protein balance. It also supports muscle growth through protein synthesis.⁽¹⁰⁾

This amino supports muscle contractions and promotes a more positive mood, better concentration, and improved motivation.⁽¹¹⁾

This amino acid is commonly used to improve sleep, and support a positive mood.⁽¹²⁾

Methionine supports digestion and promotes fat metabolism. It also acts as an antioxidant.⁽¹³⁾

This amino supports digestion, protein synthesis, and muscle repair.⁽¹⁴⁾

Coconut water is a concentrated source of electrolyte minerals and other nutrients. In addition, Coconut water also contains flavonoids which are antioxidants.