What are Amino Acids? There are 20 different amino acids that make up all the different proteins in the human body. Nine of these are the Essential Amino Acids. These essential amino acids can only be obtained through your diet. Three of these essential amino acids are the Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), which are Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine. They can be found naturally in eggs, meat and dairy, as well as other high protein foods. Another way to obtain BCAAs is through supplements.