Essential amino acid supplements can be a helpful tool to build lean muscle and support overall health.
If you know the difference between BCAA’s and EAA’s and want a high quality EAA then skip forward to find the best essential amino acid supplements that we have found on the market, what benefits they offer, and how you can pick the best one that suits you!
Finally, if you are looking for a high quality amino acids supplements list that includes both BCAA’s and EAA’s we have that too.
Table of Contents
Short Summary
- The nine essential amino acids are not produced by the body, meaning we must consume them through either food or supplementation
- Some supplements include nonessential or conditionally essential aminos
- When choosing an EEA supplement, look for high-quality ingredients in effective amounts, and certifications that ensure the product has been tested for quality assurance
- Though both are popular in the fitness world, EAA supplements provide a more comprehensive supplement profile compared to BCAAs.
- Those that eat a well-balanced diet containing plant and animal-based foods likely receive enough aminos through diet.
Our Top Picks for the Best Essential Amino Acid Supplements
For those looking for the best EAA supplements to meet their health and fitness goals, we have created a list of top choices in several categories.
These categories include the top customer choices, most affordable, vegan brands, best-tasting products, and other multi-purpose options. No matter your preferences or financial constraints, there’s an EAA supplement that can be easily incorporated into your routine.
Before we begin, keep in mind that there is a difference between BCAAs and EAAs. While all BCAAs are EAAs, not all EAAs are BCAAs. So, if you are only looking for a BCAA formula, click the following link to learn about the best BCAA supplements available.
Here’s a quick look at our top picks:
Note: Highlighted boxes in the table signify scores below 5 or 4.
- Top Choice and Top-rated by Customers- EAA Surge
- Best Tasting EAA – Transparent Labs Intra
- Best NSF-Certified For Sports –Thorne Amino Complex
- Best Capsule EAA – Double Wood Essential Amino Acids
- Best with Caffeine – Optimum Nutrition Essential Amin.O. Energy
- Best Affordable EAA – Bulk Supplements EAA (powder)
- Best Multi-purpose – Klean Athlete Essential Aminos +HMB
- Best Vegan EAA – Naked EAAs
EAA Surge – Top-rated by Customers and Best Overall
* Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 103 users on their official website
* Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1168 users on Amazon
Overview
EAA Surge is a high-quality, vegan, fermented EAA powder that contains clinically proven Amino9 and other ingredients to promote strength gains, muscle recovery, and endurance during workouts, while also ensuring a delicious taste for an enjoyable experience.
General Information
- Net Weight: 284g
- Servings per container: 20
- Serving size: 1 scoop (14g)
Ingredients
- Amino9: L-Leucine, L-Lysine HCL, L-Threonine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine, L-Phenylalanine, L-Methionine, L-Histidine, L-Tryptophan
- L-Citrulline Malate
- Taurine
- Coconut Water Powder Blend
- Other ingredients: Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Silicon Dioxide, Calcium Silicate, Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose, Beta Carotene (for color), Beet Root Powder (for color)
Flavors Available
- Peach Mango
- Blue Raspberry
- Pineapple
- Strawberry Limeade
- Cucumber Lime
Pros
- No fillers or dyes
- Vegan-friendly
- Made in GMP-certified facilities
- Offers a money-back guarantee
Cons
- Low dosage of citrulline malate
- Made with artificial sweeteners
- Only 20 servings per container
Time of Consumption
During a workout or post-workout
Price
$32.99 ($1.65 per serving)
Bottom line
EAA Surge is a great intra-workout/essential amino acid supplement that surprises users with its delicious taste. With positive reviews praising its effectiveness in boosting energy and enhancing workouts, this product is a must-have for fitness enthusiasts looking to amp up their muscle growth and recovery.
Transparent Labs Intra – Best Tasting EAA
* Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 119 users on their official website
Overview
The CoreSeries Intra Workout is a premium EAA supplement that ignites muscle protein synthesis, protects against muscle tissue breakdown, and boosts energy for peak performance during prolonged workouts. It includes a precise blend of all nine EAAs, chelated electrolytes, vegan BCAAs, and other essential ingredients.
General Information
- Net Weight: 561g
- Servings per container: 30 scoops
- Serving size: 1 scoop (18.7g)
Ingredients
- Essential Amino Acids – 6,700mg
- Citrulline Malate 2:1 – 2000mg
- Taurine – 2000mg
- Astragin™ – 25mg
- BetaPure™ Betaine Anhydrous – 1250mg
- Coconut Water Powder – 1000mg
- ElevATP® (Ancient Peat, Apple Extract) – 150mg
- Other ingredients: Astragin™ – 50mg
Flavors
- Strawberry Lemonade
- Blue Raspberry
Pros
- No artificial sweeteners, colorings, or preservatives
- Informed Choice Certified
- Vegan-friendly and Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Might contain allergens (peanuts and coconuts) due to cross-contamination
- Low dosage of citrulline malate
Time of Consumption
For best results, mix one serving with water during workouts, or take it in the morning on non-training days.
Price
$43.99 ($1.47 per serving)
Bottom Line
With its effective blend of EAAs, chelated electrolytes, and extra energy boost, it might help keep you pumped up, energized, and hydrated, making it a must-have product for workouts and beyond.
Plus, it’s received rave reviews from satisfied customers who appreciate its quality and taste, making it a top choice!
Thorne Amino Complex – Best NSF-Certified For Sports
* Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 138 users on their official website
* Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,508 users on Amazon
Overview
The Thorne Amino Complex is a clinically validated EAA and BCAA formula amino complex that promotes energy production, increases net protein balance, and enhances muscle repair during training and weightlifting.
General Information
- Net Weight: 231g
- Servings per container: 30
- Serving size: 1 scoop (7.7g)
Ingredients
- L-Cystine – 150mg
- L-Histidine – 150mg
- L-Isoleucine – 625mg
- L-Leucine – 1.25g
- L-Lysine (Chloride) – 650mg
- L-Methionine – 50mg
- L-Phenylalanine – 100mg
- L-Threonine – 350mg
- L-Tryptophan – 20mg
- L-Tyrosine – 30mg
- L-Valine – 625mg
- Other ingredients: Citric Acid, Flavors, Fruit and Vegetable Juice (color), Stevia Extract
Flavors Available
- Berry
- Lemon
Pros
- Derived from natural flavors, colors, and sweeteners
- Dairy-free and soy-free
- NSF Certified for Sport®
- Vegan-friendly
- Gluten-free
Cons
- More expensive compared to other supplements
Time of Consumption
Best taken after a workout to facilitate recovery
Price
$45.00 ($1.50 per serving)
Bottom Line
Thorne Amino Complex is a great option for those looking for a complete formula. Users love its great flavors (berry and lemon), its easy mixability, and the benefits it provides. It has become a favorite among athletes and fitness enthusiasts, and many have been loyal customers for years, attesting to its excellent quality and benefits.
Double Wood Essential Amino Acids – Best Capsule EAA
* Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30 users on their official website
* Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,815 users on Amazon
Overview
This supplement offers all nice essential amino acids crucial for numerous bodily functions, including protein synthesis and hormone and neurotransmitter production. Being sourced from dietary sources, users say it is generally safe with rare side effects.
General Information
- Servings per container: 75
- Serving size: 3 capsules
Ingredients
- L-Leucine – 205mg
- L-Lysine – 185mg
- L-Threonine – 141mg
- L-Valine – 141mg
- L-Isoleucine – 115mg
- L-Phenylalanine – 72mg
- L-Histidine – 37mg
- L-Tryptophan – 37mg
- L-Methionine -32mg
Pros
- Soy-free and Non-GMO
- Good Manufacturing Practice Certified (GMP Quality)
- Gluten-free
- Offers a money-back guarantee
Cons
- Need to take at least 3 capsules daily
Price
- $19.95 – Per pack ($0.27 per serving)
- $34.95 – Essential Amino Acids Double Pack
- $49.95 – Essential Amino Acids Triple Pack
Time of Consumption
3-12 capsules daily before or after a workout
Bottom Line
Users say that the Double Wood Essential Amino Acids give them those important nutrients that are hard to get from regular food–an awesome addition to any supplement routine! Some claim it might be a better option than consuming a whey supplement.
However, keep in mind that if you are having trouble reaching your daily protein intake, a protein shake can be a good way to boost protein.
Optimum Nutrition Essential Amin.O. Energy – Best with Caffeine
* Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 311 users on their official website
* Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 44,994 users on Amazon
Overview
The Optimum Nutrition Essential Amin.O. Energy is a versatile supplement that provides a blend of 100mg of caffeine from natural sources like coffee beans and tea leaves, along with 5gof amino acids to support muscle recovery.
General Information
- Net Weight: 275g
- Servings per container: 30 servings
- Serving size: 2 scoops (9g)
Ingredients
- 5g of amino acids for muscle recovery support
- Other ingredients: 100mg of caffeine per serving from coffee bean and/or tea leaf
Flavors Available
- Watermelon
- Cherry Candy
- Green Apple
- Blue Raspberry
- Strawberry Lime
- Blueberry Lemonade
Pros
- Low calorie dosage
- Wide range of flavors
- Can boost energy levels
- Budget-friendly option
Cons
- For those sensitive to caffeine, avoid consuming it in the afternoon or at night since it might disrupt sleep.
- While it doesn’t contain any animal products, it’s made in a facility that handles animal products.
- Might contain gluten
Price
$29.55 ($0.99 per serving)
*Customers can get 15% off the first order when signing up for Optimum Nutrition’s newsletter
Time of Consumption
Consume before a workout.
Conclusion
It has 5 to 10 calories per serving, zero sugar, and offers an energy boost, improved mental focus, and increased muscle support for a productive day or intense workout. If you’re looking for a fast-acting supplement that tastes good and offers a wide variety of flavors, this is the product for you!
Bulk Supplements EAA (powder) – Best Affordable EAA
* Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 139 users on their official website
* Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,154 users on Amazon
Overview
The Bulk Supplements EAA is a blend of nine crucial amino acids. It offers a range of benefits including increased energy levels, enhanced muscle growth, supported strength development, boosted metabolism, and improved appetite control.
General Information
- Net Weight: 100g (also comes in 250g, 500g, 1kg, 5kg, 25kg variants)
- Servings per container: 10
- Serving size: 1/3 tbsp (10g)
Ingredients
- L-Leucine
- L-Isoleucine
- L-Valine
- L-Lysine HCI
- L-Threonine
- L-Tryptophan
- L-Phenylalanine
- L-Methionine
- L-Histidine HCL
- Other ingredients: Sunflower Lecithin
Pros
- This product is free of added sugar, soy, dairy, yeast, gluten
- Also comes in capsule form
- Vegan-friendly
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Made with proprietary blends
Price
$12.96 ($1.30 per serving)
Time of Consumption
Take before or after a workout
Bottom Line
This supplement has been praised for its cost savings, quality, and purity, and users have found creative ways to blend it with other powders for a customized experience. If you are looking to get started on taking EAA supplements, this is a great option without breaking the bank.
Klean Athlete Essential Aminos +HMB – Best Multi-purpose
* Rated 4 out of 5 stars by 51 users on Amazon
Overview
Klean Essential Aminos + HMB (Hydroxymethylbutyrate) is an orange-flavored essential amino acid powder. Its leucine-rich blend of essential amino acids, combined with HMB, vitamin D3, and glutamine, helps athletes of all ages perform at their peak levels while ensuring great taste and clean ingredients.
General Information
- Net Weight: 275g
- Servings per container: 30
- Serving size: 1 scoop (9g)
Ingredients
- Vitamin D3 (as cholecalciferol) – 12.5mcg
- Calcium – 210mg
- Amino9 Amino Blend (L-Leucine, L-Lysine, L-Threonine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine, L-Phenylalanine, L-Methionine, L-Histidine, L-Tryptophan) – 3.35g
- L-Glutamine – 2g
- MyHMB Calcium Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methylbutyrate Monohydrate (HMB) – 1.5g
- Other ingredients: Natural Orange Flavor, Natural Vanilla and Other Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, Stevia Leaf Extract, Monk Fruit Extract (Siraitia grosvenorii), Turmeric (for color)
Flavors Available
- Orange
Pros
- Certified by NSF International’s NSF Certified for Sport program
- Vegetarian and non-GMO
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Only one flavor is available.
Price
$69.30 ($2.31 per serving)
Bottom Line
Users love its concentrated small scoop, easy mixing, and great taste, making it a must for athletes who want to feel the benefits and perform at their peak. It’s a great option if you want to get your daily EAA fix with the added benefit of HMB and Vitamin D3.
Naked EAAs – Best Vegan EAA
* Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 20 users on their official website
* Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 61 users on Amazon
Overview
Naked EAAs is a pharmaceutical-grade, fast-absorbing essential amino acid blend that enhances strength and endurance. It supports muscle development, accelerates post-workout recovery, and provides a clean boost for intense training sessions.
General Information
- Net Weight: 500g
- Servings per container: 50
- Serving size: 2 scoops (10g)
Ingredients
- Leucine: 2400mg
- Isoleucine: 1200mg
- Valine: 1200mg
- Lysine: 1200mg
- Threonine: 1200mg
- Methionine: 900mg
- Phenylalanine: 450mg
- Histidine: 450mg
- Tryptophan: 250mg
- Amino Acid Profile: 2:1:1 L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine for optimal muscle-protein synthesis
Pros
- Caffeine-free
- Contains sunflower lecithin for better solubility
- Mixes easily with your favorite drink
- Vegan-friendly
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Some people say it might have an aftertaste.
Price
$39.99 ($0.80 per serving)
Bottom Line
Naked EAAs is a top-notch vegan amino acid blend perfect for fitness enthusiasts who want clean and non-GMO supplements. Some users say it does not taste great solo, and many mix it with green powder or protein shakes to boost recovery, endurance, and muscle growth.
Understanding Essential Amino Acids
Amino acids are crucial for the maintenance of our health, as they aid in several bodily functions and help to foster muscle growth and repair. The nine essential amino acids include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. They are called essential because the body cannot produce them internally, meaning we rely on dietary sources to get the daily recommended intake.
Functions of EAAs
Essential amino acids are of utmost importance for our bodies as they provide the required building blocks needed to facilitate muscle protein synthesis, energy production, and hormone formation.
Of these essential aminos, branched chain amino acids (BCAAs)–leucine, isoleucine and valine–particularly promote protein development plus muscle growth.
Essential amino acids, such as phenylalanine, and conditionally essential ones, like lysine, play a significant role in various bodily functions, from detoxification and wound healing to the production of hormones.
Keep in mind that nonessential aminos play just as vital roles though slightly different than essential aminos. So, it’s still important to get a variety of different amino acids from dietary sources.
Sources of EAAs
To obtain all nine essential amino acids through food, it is crucial to follow a balanced diet. Amino acids are packaged and delivered to the body via dietary protein. Some of the richest sources are chicken, Greek yogurt, eggs, fish, and meat. There are also plant-based alternatives such as legumes, nuts, and grains, which can provide lower amounts of these indispensable nutrients for vegetarians or vegans.
If you feel that you are not getting enough daily protein, or if you follow a plant-based approach, it can be a good idea to consider adding in some form of supplementation like essential amino acids.
Still, always check with a health professional to determine if it’s okay to add a new dietary supplement to your routine, especially if you are pregnant, lactating, or have an underlying medical condition.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an EAA Supplement
Deciding on an ideal essential amino acid supplement can be intimidating. It’s crucial to get the most out of your EAA supplementation so that it’s not money wasted. Here’s how to make a well-informed decision when choosing a product.
Ingredient Quality
When choosing an EAA supplement, it’s essential to pay attention to the quality of ingredients. Look for formulas that have all nine necessary amino acids from trusted suppliers.
Some supplements may even include bonus elements like citrulline malate, taurine, betaine anhydrous, and electrolytes in their blend too. Other nonessential amino acids are also added to workout supplements like glutamine for enhanced recovery.
Serving Size and Dosage
Dosage instructions will vary by brand, but it’s important to double-check the serving size and that each serving has the proper amount of aminos.
Taste and Mixability
When selecting your EAA supplement, both taste and mixability should be taken into consideration. You can go for either flavored or unflavored products depending on personal preferences.
If you choose the latter, sweeteners such as raw honey and agave nectar are excellent options to boost flavor. Just remember that some ingredients (like honey) can increase the caloric intake of the beverage.
To prevent changing the nutritional information of the supplement, you can mix them with water. Mixing these supplements with water is a breeze—just stir it in before adding to shakes or smoothies.
Brand Reputation and Certifications
When selecting an EAA supplement, it’s important to opt for a reliable brand with relevant certifications.
The NSF International, QAI International, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and Informed-Sport are examples of trusted credentials which promise quality and safety in the product you choose.
How to Use Essential Amino Acid Supplements
Timing and Frequency
For timing your EAA supplement, it’s best to consume them fairly close to a workout. This may be before, during, or after. During a workout, muscles are strained and experience slight muscle protein breakdown. This is a normal and necessary phenomenon, but muscle protein synthesis must occur to rebuild proteins and repair damaged muscle tissue.
Pros and Cons of EAA Supplementation
Pros
The main advantage to taking an amino acid supplement for fitness is to help your body build muscle more effectively and speed up recovery time between training. However, if you already consume amino acids in adequate amounts through diet, supplementation isn’t necessary.
The advantages an EAA supplement has over a protein supplement are that they often contain little to no calories and are delivered to the blood in free-form rather than having to be broken down by the body. The benefits to this faster absorption rate are unknown.
Cons
EAA supplements offer many advantages, but they may come with side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort, but this isn’t uncommon for supplements.
Also, some could argue that a quality protein powder will supply all the necessary amino acids for health. Protein powders are very accessible in various online and in-person suppliers for a reasonable price. Whereas EAAs and BCAAs may be much harder to come by and are often at a more premium price.
Summary
All in all, essential amino acid supplements can prove to be quite advantageous when it comes to increasing muscle growth and overall wellness. Make sure the supplement has good quality ingredients, suitable serving sizes, easy mixability, a decent taste, and is from a reputable manufacturer.
Always consult a medical professional beforehand to ensure safety as well as effectiveness when using amino acid supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are essential amino acids worth taking?
It is important to note that the best source of amino acids are balanced diets. Essential amino acid supplements can provide some health and performance benefits, especially for individuals who don’t consume enough through diet.
What is the best source of essential amino acids?
Essential amino acids from animal proteins are the most easily absorbed and used by your body. All nine essential amino acids can be found in foods like poultry, eggs, and beef. However, plant-based sources also contain decent amounts of amino acids; it just requires more mixing and matching of plant foods to get a balanced array of aminos.
What’s the best amino acid you can take?
There isn’t one single best amino acid to take. If you’re going to take a supplement, it may as well be an EAA supplement or a whey protein powder to get all nine essential ones from a supplement. It’s also worth noting that there is no added benefit to taking both EAAs and protein.
Can EAA supplements help with weight loss?
Working out on a regular basis is essential when it comes to shedding excess weight. Taking EAA supplements can be helpful in aiding this process, as they have been shown to help increase muscle mass, which boosts metabolism. However, remember that in order to lose weight you need to be in a caloric deficit.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with essential amino acid supplementation?
Supplementation with essential amino acids may cause unpleasant side effects including gastrointestinal discomfort like bloating, nausea, or gas.
Editorial Process:
Some of the links in this article could be affiliate links, which can provide us compensation at no cost to you if you decide to purchase supplements. These are products we personally stand behind. This site is not intended to provide personal health recommendations and you should connect with a registered dietitian or nutritionist before using any supplements.
