Evidence supporting the use of: BCAA
For the health condition: Anorexia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are sometimes used as a nutritional supplement in the management of anorexia, particularly in the context of protein-energy malnutrition or severe muscle wasting. The rationale is primarily based on the role of BCAAs (leucine, isoleucine, and valine) in muscle protein synthesis and their potential to serve as an energy substrate when caloric intake is insufficient. Some clinical studies have explored BCAA supplementation in patients with anorexia nervosa or anorexia secondary to chronic illness (such as cancer or liver disease), with mixed results.

There is limited but suggestive scientific evidence supporting the use of BCAAs in anorexia. A few small clinical trials and case reports indicate that BCAA supplementation may help improve muscle mass retention, reduce muscle catabolism, and possibly enhance overall nutritional status in severely malnourished individuals. However, these studies are generally small, of low methodological quality, or focused on anorexia secondary to medical illnesses rather than primary anorexia nervosa. There is insufficient evidence to conclude that BCAA supplementation has a meaningful impact on weight gain, psychological symptoms, or long-term outcomes in anorexia nervosa. Major treatment guidelines do not currently recommend BCAAs as a standard intervention for anorexia. In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and limited evidence, more rigorous studies are needed, and the overall strength of evidence is low (rated 2/5).

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