#635: VR Vintage: Amino Acids Explained: Protein, BCAAs, Collagen, and What Actually Builds Muscle

This episode originally aired as #597 on 12/20/25 and we are bringing it to you again! On this episode of Vitality Radio, Jared breaks down amino acids—what they are, how they work in the body, and how to supplement them strategically for muscle health, recovery, fasting, metabolism, and healthy aging. He explains the difference between essential amino acids, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), collagen, protein powders, and whole-food protein, and clarifies when each one makes the most sense. Jared also walks through practical use cases, including workout performance, muscle preservation during fasting, age-related muscle loss, and supporting lean mass during calorie restriction—without hype! If protein goals, collagen, amino acids, or fasting protocols have been confusing, this episode delivers clear, practical guidance you can actually use.

Products:

Vitality Nutrition Essential Aminos

Rebuild+ Functional Bone Broth Protein 

Additional Information:

#573: Protein Showdown: Whey, Collagen, Bone Broth, Plant Based, and Beyond!

Visit the podcast website here: VitalityRadio.com

You can follow @vitalitynutritionbountiful and @vitalityradio on Instagram, or Vitality Radio and Vitality Nutrition on Facebook. Join us also in the Vitality Radio Podcast Listener Community on Facebook. Shop the products that Jared mentions at vitalitynutrition.com. Let us know your thoughts about this episode using the hashtag #vitalityradio and please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Thank you!

Just a reminder that this podcast is for educational purposes only. The FDA has not evaluated the podcast. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The advice given is not intended to replace the advice of your medical professional.