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Excessive intake of branched-chain amino acids could reduce lifespan

It is important to maintain the amino acid balance in the body to lead a healthy life

01-May-2019

Key points from article :

Excessive consumption of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) increases the risk of obesity and reduces lifespan.

Supplements containing high levels of BCAAs are popular in the fitness industry.

Effects of excessive BCAA intake on mice were investigated.

Low serotonin levels were seen in mice that were fed double the normal amount of BCAAs.

They became obese and their lifespans shortened.

Therefore amino acid balance in the body is important to lead a healthy life.

Researchers recommend a healthy, balanced diet that includes various protein sources to get essential AAs.

Study by University of Sydney, published in Nature Metabolism.

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Nature Metabolism

Online journal Nature Metabolism is an online journal of Nature Research

Samantha Solon-Biet

NHMRC Early Career Fellow at The University of Sydney.

Stephen Simpson

Academic Director of Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney.

The University of Sydney

Australia's leading higher education and research University

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