amino_acid
Leucine
TL;DR
L-Leucine is the most anabolic of the three BCAAs and the primary activator of the mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway for muscle protein synthesis. The "leucine threshold" concept (2.
Overview
L-Leucine is the most anabolic of the three BCAAs and the primary activator of the mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway for muscle protein synthesis. The "leucine threshold" concept (2.5-3g per meal) is central to modern sports nutrition for optimizing muscle growth and preventing sarcopenia.
13 / 565
products in our database contain Leucine
Source · MoodStack database
Compound forms
Leucine comes in several molecular forms. Each absorbs and acts differently.
DL-Leucine
2-amino-4-methylpentanoic acid (racemic)
Bioavailability
60%
Typical dose
2–10 g
HMB (β-Hydroxy β-methylbutyrate)
3-hydroxy-3-methylbutanoic acid
Bioavailability
80%
Typical dose
1.5–3 g
L-Leucine
(2S)-2-amino-4-methylpentanoic acid
Bioavailability
99%
Typical dose
2–10 g
Benefits
- mTOR activation
- Muscle protein synthesis
- Anti-catabolic
- Sarcopenia prevention
- Insulin secretion
Dose guide
Common dose
2.5-5 g per dose, 2-3x daily (as part of BCAA or standalone)
Typical range
2500–10000 mg
Based on 13 products in our database.
Products with Leucine
Gorilla Mode EAAs
Optimum Nutrition Instantized BCAA 5000 Powder
PLAY! - IntraWorkout
Nutrimuscle BCAA 2.1.2 Resistance Powder
BCAA 2:1:1 200 Tablets
Nutrimuscle BCAA 4.1.1 Builders Powder
Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydrowhey
BCAA
Vitamin D-10,000
EAA Essential Amino Acids 300 g
Interactions
enhances. Leucine stimulates pancreatic beta-cell insulin secretion and activates mTOR; may have additive blood glucose-lowering effects with insulin
synergistic. Whey is naturally leucine-rich (10-12%); additional leucine may further activate mTOR for maximum muscle protein synthesis stimulus
competes. Leucine and other BCAAs compete with tryptophan for Large Neutral Amino Acid Transporter (LAT1) across the blood-brain barrier, reducing brain serotonin
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Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.