Isoleucine and leucine are amino acids that help to serve as the building blocks for some of the body's proteins, according to Vitamin Stuff. These, combined with the amino acid valine, comprise the branched-chain amino acids group in the body. Isoleucine and leucine help to promote muscle recovery, particularly after an intense exercise session. Isoleucine and leucine are essential amino acids, meaning the body does not naturally produce them. Instead, you must turn to food sources in order to obtain a sufficient amount in your daily diet. Knowing what food sources provide these amino acids can help you to maintain normal muscle function.
Meat Sources
Isoleucine and leucine are present in most common proteins, according to Britannica Online Encyclopedia. Meats serve as an excellent source of this amino acid; Examples include top round beef, which contains 1.76 g of leucine for every 100 g serving, according to Dietary Fiber Food, a website that promotes sound nutrition. Other meat-based sources include pork, chicken, shrimp and fish. Take caution in eating excess amounts of these foods if you experience impaired kidney function because your body may have difficulty processing high amounts of these proteins, according to Vitamin Stuff, an informational website on vitamins and supplements. Foods made from cow's milk, including cottage cheese yogurt and cheeses, also are good sources of isoleucine and leucine.
Nuts and Eggs
For those who do not consume meats, other high-protein foods contain leucine and isoleucine, according to Belly Bytes, a health website dedicated to providing information on nutritional topics. Examples of these include nuts, such as almonds, walnuts and peanuts, according to Dietary Fiber Food. Eggs also are a high-protein source of leucine and isoleucine.
Vegetables and Soy
Vegetables that contain isoleucine and leucine include asparagus and snap green beans. Lentils or pulses also are good sources of isoleucine and leucine. Flax, sesame and tahini also are good sources of isoleucine and leucine in the body. Chickpeas -- and their mashed version, known as hummus -- provide a dietary source of these amino acids, as do products made from soybeans, including soy milk. Brown rice and whole-wheat bread products also are an isoleucine and leucine source, according to Belly Bytes.
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