Essential Amino Acids Explained: Protein Quality, Leucine, BCAAs and How Much You Need

About this episode

Protein has become a numbers game, and the numbers leave out the essential amino acids your muscle, brain and metabolism depend on. Protein is how you get them, and its quality may change how well you age. In this episode, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon brings together some of her favorite moments with Dr. Don Layman, Dr. Heather Leidy and Dr. Jess Gwin to break down the essential amino acid requirement, cut through the confusion on protein quality (what a protein label leaves out, plant vs. animal sources, branched-chain amino acids, and leucine), and explain what the research says about essential amino acids in brain function, mood, sleep, energy deficit, and anabolic resistance as we age. If you have ever wondered what your protein label isn't telling you, or why half an ounce of nuts and an ounce of lean beef count as the same serving, this conversation offers a clear, practical look at what the science says. Thank you to our sponsors: - BodyHealth: 20% off your first order at bodyhealth.com with code LION20 - Tushy: 10% off your first bidet order at hellotushy.com with code DOCTORLION Find Dr. Don Layman, Dr. Heather Leidy and Dr. Jess Gwin at: - Dr. Heather Leidy: https://nutr