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Can You Take L-Leucine and L-Valine Together?
May affect absorption
The short answer
L-Leucine and L-Valine are both BCAAs sharing the same intestinal and BBB transporters. When taken individually, leucine's higher affinity for LAT1 may reduce valine transport to the brain.
How to arrange timing
When supplementing individual BCAAs, separate L-Leucine and L-Valine by at least 1 hour for optimal absorption.
Reference
Reference noted for this combination: Fernstrom JD. Branched-chain amino acids and brain function. J Nutr. 2005;135(6 Suppl):1539S-1546S.
Important context
Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.