Citrulline malate, a compound derived from the amino acid L-citrulline and malic acid, has gained significant attention in the supplement industry for its potential performance-enhancing benefits. Citrulline malate has been extensively studied for its role in promoting nitric oxide production, a key factor in vasodilation and improved blood flow. Enhanced blood flow is believed to contribute to increased oxygen and nutrient delivery to muscles during exercise, potentially leading to improved exercise performance and reduced fatigue.
The supplement industry has embraced citrulline malate as a popular ingredient in pre-workout formulations, aiming to capitalize on its purported ability to enhance endurance, reduce muscle soreness, and support overall athletic performance. Research has shown promising results in various exercise modalities, including resistance training and aerobic activities.
Furthermore, citrulline malate is recognized for its potential role in mitigating the effects of ammonia buildup during intense physical exertion, which may contribute to reduced muscle fatigue. This aspect of its performance-enhancing properties has garnered interest from athletes and fitness enthusiasts seeking ways to optimize training outcomes.
The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a 7-day loading phase of 17 grams of citrulline malate on tests of maximum isometric strength, explosive isometric power, and isokinetic muscle endurance in resistance-trained men. The results confirm the safety of the administered high dose of 17 grams of citrulline malate. None of the participants reported any digestive problems during the trial. We didn’t find any statistical difference in any of the tests performed. We did find a trend of increased total muscle workload in the combined work output of all participants in the muscle endurance part of the test. This finding wasn’t systematic and wasn’t our main goal of research. Citrulline malate could potentially be used by weightlifters to increase the total volume of a workout, which could lead to increased muscle hypertrophy, since the total volume performed during a workout is one of the ways to increase stress on skeletal muscle.
While citrulline malate appears to hold promise as a valuable supplement ingredient, further research is needed to establish optimal dosages, potential long-term effects, and its efficacy across diverse populations. Additionally, challenges such as formulation considerations and standardization in the supplement industry warrant continued attention.
In conclusion, citrulline malate's emergence in the supplement industry reflects a growing interest in evidence-based performance enhancers. Ongoing research and development efforts aim to unlock the full potential of this compound, providing valuable insights for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and manufacturers in the ever-evolving landscape of sports nutrition supplements.
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