Essential Amino Acids and the MAP Formula 

Essentielle Aminosäuren und die MAP-Formel

Essential amino acids are the foundation of muscle repair, recovery, and adaptation. Unlike non-essential amino acids, the body cannot produce them on its own. They must come from external sources.

The eight essential amino acids—L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, and L-valine—act as indispensable building blocks for body protein. For endurance athletes training 3–15 hours per week, they are critical for maintaining muscle integrity and supporting the body’s ability to rebuild after repeated stress.  

Why Essential Amino Acids Matter 

Essential amino acids support protein synthesis, cellular repair, and metabolic functions. Because the body cannot store amino acids, regular intake is required. When one essential amino acid is missing, protein synthesis becomes incomplete.

The MAP Formula

Professor Dr. Lucà-Moretti identifizierte das Master Amino Pattern (MAP), ein präzises Verhältnis essenzieller Aminosäuren, das dem Körper eine nahezu vollständige Verwertung ermöglicht. Während hochwertige Nahrungsproteine wie Fleisch oder Fisch eine netto-Stickstoffverwertung (NNU) von etwas 32 % erreichen, liegt die Kombination aus freien Aminosäuren nach dem Master Amino Acid Pattern bei nahezu 100 %.

Plant based vs. Animal based  

Plant based proteins contain all essential amino acids, but in varying proportions. Animal based proteins have a more complete amino acid profile, but are significantly less efficient than MAP and require longer digestion times. We have therefore specifically enriched our plant-based RECOVERY SHAKE with the amino acids glutamine and leucine to significantly improve its quality and absorption.

Natural Fermentation Matters  

Many amino acid products are chemically synthesized. Naturally fermented, plant-based amino acids offer higher purity and better biological availability, making them well suited for athletes who use amino acids regularly. 

RECOVERY 8 for the Open Window  

The first 60 minutes after intense training represent a critical phase for regeneration. RECOVERY 8 provides: 

  • MAP-level amino acid composition 
  • Absorption within the shortest time
  • Plant-based fermented production 
  • Support for muscle preservation and repair 

Leucine, isoleucine, and valine (BCAAs) can reduce exercise-induced muscle damage, soreness, and reduced function. RECOVERY 8 integrates them in an optimal ratio.  

Conclusion

Essential amino acids are central to muscle repair and adaptation. The MAP formula delivers the exact composition needed for efficient protein synthesis, offering meaningful benefits to endurance athletes. RECOVERY 8 provides all eight essential amino acids in a natural, rapidly absorbable form that supports both muscle protein synthesis and long-term health. 

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