Leucic Acid (Alpha-Hydroxyisocaproic Acid [HICA])

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Updated: September 25 2013

What Is It?
Leucic acid (Alpha-hydroxyisocaproic acid [HICA]) is metabolite of L-leucine, one of the branched-chain amino acids (BCAA). It is supposed to have anti-catabolic and anabolic properties. 

Sources of Leucic Acid
Leucic acid is found naturally in wine, sake, and cheese.

What Does Human Research Studies Say?
1. Small increase in lean mass; the increase was 0.4 kg over 4 weeks; unreliable effect though. ^[1]  
2. Small increase in weight; probably due to the small increase in lean mass. ^[1]  
3. Small decrease in muscle soreness (DOMS); 23% decrease in soreness over 4 weeks; unreliable. ^[1]  
4. Non-significant/no effect on power output. ^[1]  
5. Non-significant/no effect on anaerobic running capacity. ^[1]  
6. Non-significant/no effect on fat mass. ^[1]  
7. Non-significant/no effect on bone mineral density. ^[1]  

Conclusion
There is really not enought evidence for its recommendation. 

Verdict: Not needed in your supplement stack

Recommended Dosage (Used in the Studies)
For anti-catabolic and anabolic properties: 1,500 mg of HICA, divided into three doses of 500 mg daily

Please read the disclaimer before supplementation

Where Can You Buy This Supplement?
Amazon.com

Side Effects of This Supplement
1. Leucic acid is not studied extensively, it has no known side effects. 

References
1. Effects of alfa-hydroxy-isocaproic acid on body composition, DOMS and performance in athletes

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