Muscle protein synthesis is one of the most important mechanisms to boost lean muscle development both among patients with muscle atrophy and those with normal muscle built. While most bodybuilding drugs have unclear pharmacodynamics, L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid or HICA, a significant health supplement compound, is fully established to work by enhancing muscle protein synthesis. L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid is often confused with Leucine, another amino acid compound, due to its ordinary name Leucic Acid. The main difference between the two lies, however, on the fact that L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid or Leucic Acid is more effective than the other as it is the end product of Leucine metabolism.
What is L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid?
L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid, also known as HICA and Leucic Acid, is an anti-catabolic, anabolism-promoting agent used in the formulation of health supplements designed for bodybuilders. While other forms of introducing the drug to the body are available for L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid, experts say that oral supplementation works best not only for efficiency but also in terms of safety. Several studies on the drug conducted on rats and other animal subjects have already been concluded while some human subject studies still remain close to conclusions.
What are the benefits of using L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid?
The compound HICA is mainly used for building lean muscles as it is shown to enhance protein synthesis among rat subjects with induced muscle atrophy. Findings show, however, that the results may not be readily observable since the drug specifically works through permanent protein synthesis and anabolism rather than sudden yet temporary muscle development. Other benefits of using the drug are the following:
- It may control fungal growth
Fungal growth, especially of the internal body, is often a result of a compromised immune system state of an individual. In a study conducted to determine the possible antimicrobial effects of L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid, it was found that the drug is not effective against bacteria and viruses but have potential effects against fungi. Intensive studies are currently being conducted to determine the safest dose for L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid in an attempt to include it in the formulation of antifungal medications.
- It repairs muscles and prevent inflammation
After an extraneous exercise, muscle tears and inflammations are typically expected. Although the Muscleshave the ability to repair itself, L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid supplementation is essential to boost repair and prevent inflammations. The compound helps enhance synthesis of protein to rebuild torn muscles and prevent influx of blood in the area causing inflammation.
- It prevents exhaustion
Some experts also say that L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid is the most useful bodybuilding drug as it enhances energy levels and prevents exhaustion. Along with other compounds used in bodybuilding supplements, L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid is known to treat exercise stress and enhance effects of regular exercise.
Conclusion
L-alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid is one of the best supplement included in bodybuilding health supplement formulations. A regular dose of the compound is said to keep energy levels high for heightened motivation.
