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What are BCAAs?
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are a group of 3 essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. BCAA supplements are commonly used to boost muscle growth and enhance exercise performance, according to Healthline [1]. They may also help with weight loss and reduce fatigue after exercise.
What’s the Problem?
Despite their purported benefits, a recent class action lawsuit alleges that BCAA supplements actually decrease protein synthesis and are “wholly incapable of building muscle on their own.”
Studies have found that BCAAs contain only 3 of the 9 essential amino acids the body needs to build muscle, and may increase the risk of severe, potentially life-threatening side effects.
BCAA Side Effects
Excessive use of BCAA supplements has been linked to:
- Liver injury
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Unhealthy drop in blood pressure (hypotension)
- Buildup of uric acid in the blood
- Joint inflammation
- Gout
- Increased insulin resistance
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Fatigue
- Loss of coordination
- Nausea
- Headache
- And more
Class Action Alleges Nutrabolt Xtend BCAAs Do Not Support Muscle Growth
A class action lawsuit recently filed in New York alleges that Xtend BCAA dietary supplements do not support muscle growth or recovery, and can harm muscle protein synthesis. The suit further claims that Woodbolt Distribution, doing business as Nutrabolt, markets its Xtend BCAA supplement as able to support muscle growth and recovery;
However, independent research has found that BCAA supplements actually decrease muscle protein synthesis and are wholly incapable of building muscle on their own. Products named in the complaint include:
- Xtend Original BCAAs
- Xtend Elite BCAAs
- Xtend Hydrasport BCAAs
- Xtend Ripped BCAAs
- Xtend Energy BCAAs
- Xtend Free BCAAs
- Xtend Hydration + BCAAs in ready-to-drink bottles
BCAA Supplements May Have ‘Detrimental Effects’ on Health, Lifespan: Study
A 2019 study from the University of Sydney determined that although BCAAs are highly effective at growing muscle, excessive intake of supplements in the form of pre-mixed protein powders, shakes, and supplements may do more harm to the health of the user than good.
“While diets high in protein and low in carbohydrates were shown to be beneficial for reproductive function, they had detrimental effects for health in mid-late life, and also led to a shortened lifespan,” Solon-Biet said. “What this new research has shown is that amino acid balance is important—it’s best to vary sources of protein to ensure you’re getting the best amino acid balance.”
As reported in the journal Nature Metabolism [2.], lead researcher Samantha Solon-Biet and colleagues found that although BCAAs exert muscle-building benefits, excessive intake may reduce lifespan, increase appetite, lead to weight gain, and hurt mood.
Excessive consumption of any protein is not ideal and excessive intake of protein powders or shakes could even be dangerous, the researchers found.
Related Articles:
- GNC Dietary Supplement Litigation
- Calcium Supplements Heart Attacks Litigations
- BMPEA Hemorrhagic Stroke Litigation
See all related dietary supplement lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
FAQs
Why are BCAA Supplements the Subject of Lawsuits?
BCAA supplements can be the subject of lawsuits for various reasons, including; claims that the supplements do not provide the advertised benefits, allegations that the product labels contain inaccurate information regarding ingredients or dosage, and potential health risks or side effects not adequately disclosed to consumers.
Who Can File a BCAA Lawsuit?
Consumers who have purchased BCAA supplements and believe they have been misled by false advertising or suffered adverse health effects may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Additionally, class action lawsuits may be filed on behalf of a larger group of affected consumers.
What Compensation Can Be Sought in a BCAA Lawsuit?
The compensation that can be sought in a BCAA lawsuit includes refunds for the cost of the supplements purchased, compensation for medical expenses incurred due to adverse health effects, and damages for pain and suffering caused by health issues related to the supplement.
Do I Have a BCAA Lawsuit?
The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in BCAA Supplement Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and are currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one has been injured by the side effects of a BCAA supplement, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.