Should amino acid supplements be ingested during intense resistance exercise?

The assertion that amino acid supplements should be ingested during intense resistance exercise stems from the role of amino acids in muscle metabolism and recovery. During intense exercise, the body undergoes significant physiological changes, including an increased demand for energy and a heightened requirement for amino acids to support muscle protein synthesis and repair.

During this phase, muscle cells can indeed be more receptive to the uptake of available amino acids, which can help fuel energy production and facilitate recovery. This leads to improved performance and a reduced degree of muscle breakdown, particularly when amino acids are supplied around periods of high stress such as intense workouts. Research indicates that the presence of amino acids during this time can promote an anabolic environment, preventing muscle catabolism.

This understanding contrasts with the other options, which do not accurately reflect the benefits of amino acid supplementation during exercise or suggest limitations that may not be supported by current nutritional science.