Amino Acid
L-Valine
Also known as: Valine, Val, BCAA
Essential branched-chain amino acid involved in muscle metabolism, tissue repair, and nitrogen balance. Works synergistically with other BCAAs.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every L-Valine product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Creatine + BCAAs | 92 A | $1.73 |
| 2 | NutraBio BCAA 2500 | 90 A | $0.56 |
| 3 | Kaged BCAA 2:1:1 | 89 A | $0.42 |
| 4 | Thorne SynaQuell +™ | 88 A | $1.47 |
| 5 | BulkSupplements L-Valine Powder | 86 A- | $0.10 |
| 6 | Thorne Amino Complex - Travel Packs - Berry | 85 A- | $1.20 |
| 7 | Thorne Amino Complex - Travel Packs - Lemon | 85 A- | $1.20 |
| 8 | Thorne Amino Complex - Berry | 84 A- | $1.47 |
| 9 | Thorne Amino Complex - Lemon | 84 A- | $1.47 |
| 10 | Life Extension Branched Chain Amino Acids (Free Form) | 82 A- | $0.68 |
| 11 | Pure Encapsulations Essential Aminos | 81 A- | $0.31 |
| 12 | Optimum Nutrition BCAA 1000 | 81 A- | $0.25 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much L-Valine should I take?
The typical range is 3-6 g daily. Safe long-term
When should I take L-Valine?
Pre/during/post workout. With or without.
Which form of L-Valine is best?
Powder — Often in BCAA blends. Other forms in the catalog: Capsule.
Is L-Valine safe?
Commonly reported: Well tolerated. Serious warnings: MSUD contraindicated. Caution in liver disease
Which L-Valine supplement scores highest?
Thorne Creatine + BCAAs, at 92/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Muscle recovery
- Tissue repair
- Nitrogen balance
- Energy during exercise
What systematic reviews concluded
Outcomes that systematic reviews of L-Valine reached a verdict on: 1 unclear. Each is quoted from a review and linked to it on PubMed. How these were read.
Not enough to say: insulin response.
How it works
- Stimulates muscle protein synthesis
- Provides energy during prolonged exercise
- Maintains nitrogen balance
- Supports CNS function
Dosage
- Typical range
- 3-6 g daily
- Timing
- Pre/during/post workout
- With food
- With or without
- Duration
- Safe long-term
- Special populations
- Athletes, recovery
Forms
- Powder
- Capsule
Safety
Common side effects
- Well tolerated
Contraindications
- Maple syrup urine disease
Products containing L-Valine
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list L-Valine on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Established role in muscle metabolism as BCAA component
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Amino Acid
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.