The branched-chain amino acids BCAA consist of the essential amino acids leucine, isoleucine and valine. BCAA account for approximately 35% of the essential amino acids in muscle. BCAA are found in dietary protein, such as meat, dairy products, and legumes, and typically account for 15% to 25% of the total daily intake of protein. In contrast to most essential amino acids that are metabolized in the liver, BCAA are unique because they are metabolized in skeletal muscle. Numerous studies have demonstrated the anti-catabolic effects of BCAA administration, i.e., a reduction in muscle protein breakdown during clinical conditions of wasting (e.g., starvation, post-surgery, burns, liver disease, etc).