Leucine

Leucine — an essential amino acid from the BCAA group, playing a key role in protein synthesis, muscle recovery, and regulation of energy metabolism.

It activates the mTOR pathway, which promotes muscle tissue growth, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and increases insulin sensitivity.

Leucine is important for physical activity, especially on a keto diet or during intense workouts. However, both deficiency and excess of leucine can lead to physiological disorders, so it is important to maintain a balance in its consumption.

Health Benefits

• stimulates protein synthesis and promotes muscle mass growth;
• activates the mTOR pathway, regulating tissue recovery;
• helps regulate blood sugar levels and enhances insulin sensitivity;
• contributes to a feeling of fullness and appetite control;
• plays a role in recovery after physical exertion and reduces fatigue.

Daily Requirement and Sources

The recommended intake of leucine:

• for most adults — 40–45 mg per kg of body weight (approximately 2–3 g per day);
• for athletes and individuals with high physical activity — up to 4–5 g per day;
• the excess consumption threshold — from 5 g and above (especially from supplements).

Sources of leucine:

• meat (beef, chicken, turkey);
• fish and seafood;
• eggs;
• dairy products (cheese, cottage cheese);
• legumes, nuts, and soy products;
• BCAAs and protein powders.

Symptoms and Consequences of Deficiency

• decreased protein synthesis and loss of muscle mass;
• slowed recovery after exercise;
• disorders of carbohydrate metabolism and insulin resistance;
• weakened immune system;
• psycho-emotional instability, fatigue, depressive states.

Deficiency is especially likely with strict diets, vegetarian nutrition, or high demands in athletes.

Possible Risks of Excess and Their Manifestations

• imbalance of other amino acids (for example, decreased absorption of tryptophan);
• strain on the liver and kidneys, especially with chronic diseases;
• hyperinsulinemia and fluctuations in blood sugar;
• headaches, weakness, irritability;
• nausea, digestive disorders, fatigue.

Common causes of excess include: excessive consumption of BCAA supplements, protein shakes, and an unbalanced diet.