BCCAs and Pregnancy: What You Need To Know?
As the journey through pregnancy unfolds, expectant mothers often scrutinize their dietary choices to ensure the health and well-being of both themselves and their developing babies. Among the topics of interest is the consumption of BCAAs, or Branched-Chain Amino Acids. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of BCAAs, their derivation, and the critical considerations for pregnant women.
Understanding BCCAs
The human body's proteins consist of a set of 20 different amino acids, comprising 9 essential amino acids and 11 non-essential amino acids. The structure and function of each protein are determined by the specific number, type, and sequence of its amino acids. While all 20 amino acids are essential for building the body, the crucial distinction lies in the fact that essential amino acids cannot be produced within the body and must be obtained through dietary sources. Valine, leucine, and isoleucine are the essential amino acids that are converted into energy within the muscles, collectively referred to as "BCAAs" or Branch Chain Amino Acids.
What Are Natural Sources of BCAAs?
Finding BCAAs in natural sources is quite accessible. Consuming foods high in protein from both plants and animals will provide you with BCAAs in your diet. If you don't eat meat or poultry, dairy products are healthy for you because milk has two grams of BCAAs single cup, which is about 230 ml. Here are some common foods that naturally contain BCAAs:
How should a woman proceed with obtaining BCAA supplements during pregnancy?
During your initial prenatal visit, you eagerly absorb information about prenatal care for both yourself and your growing baby. Your healthcare provider conducts a thorough examination, including listening to your baby's heartbeat and displaying the early stages of development on the ultrasound screen.
As your provider discusses the nutritional requirements, you diligently record notes on your phone. They emphasize the importance of increased protein intake since amino acids from protein-rich foods are essential for the proper development of your baby. The idea of using branch chain amino acid supplements (BCAAs) to ensure your baby receives adequate nutrients may cross your mind. However, it's important to note that the use of amino acid supplements is not recommended during pregnancy. It is advisable to avoid taking BCAAs during pregnancy due to insufficient knowledge about their potential effects on the baby. Many BCAAs in supplements are an artificial form of the amino acids and this is where the concerns come in to play.
As per PubMed research, animal studies have indicated a link between amino acid supplements and gestational weight, with fetuses appearing larger earlier in pregnancy but not necessarily later.
Supplements deliver nutrients to the body in a different manner than food, being concentrated and potentially present in higher amounts. When consuming an adequate diet, BCAAs have very little positive effects on your health and nutrition even when not pregnant or nursing.
Impact on Fetal Development
Studies involving animals, particularly mice, have shown a correlation between Branch Chain amino acid supplements during gestation and an impact on fetal growth. However, this connection remains unclear and does not seem to influence the birth weight of babies delivered at full term.
According to 2020 research publication in International journal of environmental and public health suggested a negative effect on the correlation between litter size and birth weight, indicating continued growth of the pups despite potential spatial constraints. If this phenomenon is applicable to humans, it raises concerns about the safety of branch chain amino acid supplementation during pregnancy.
Key Takeaway
The relationship between BCAAs and pregnancy requires careful consideration. While BCAAs play a crucial role in protein synthesis and muscle development, the existing evidence, primarily derived from animal studies, suggests potential risks associated with their supplementation during pregnancy and by consuming the right amount of protein and whole foods, you wouldn't need to take BCAAs regardless. Other hydration and recovery products containing coconut water are far more beneficial to everyone, including women who are nursing or pregnant. The unclear impact on fetal growth and the lack of regulation in BCAA supplements underscore the importance offering on the side of caution.
Pregnant individuals should prioritize obtaining essential amino acids through a well-balanced diet rich in protein sources, such as meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and dairy products. This ensures a safer and more natural approach to meeting the increased protein needs during pregnancy without the uncertainties linked to supplements.