Beta-Alanine Affects Endurance, Sports Performance

DEKALB, Ill.Supplementation with beta-alanine can enhance sub-maximal endurance in cyclists by delaying blood lactate accumulation, but may also reduce aerobic capacity, according to a new study (J Intl Soc Sports Nutr. ePub 19 May 2010. DOI: 10.1186/1550-2783-7-20). Researchers at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, randomized 17 recreationally active men for the double blind, placebo-controlled, pre/post test, two-treatment study. Subjects participated in two incremental treadmill tests before and after 28 days of supplementation with either beta-alanine or placebo. Heart rate, percent heart rate maximum and VO2 max were determined.

Subjects taking the beta-alanine had significant downward shifts in percent heart rate max at onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), with no change in the placebo group. VO2 max decreased and body mass increased in the active intervention group, versus those on placebo, who saw no change in VO2 max or body mass. The researchers concluded beta-alanine supplementation enhanced sub-maximal endurance performance by delaying OBLA; however, it also appeared to reduce aerobic capacity.