International Society Of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Beta-Alanine

Abstract

Position statement: The International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) provides an objective and critical review of the mechanisms and use of beta-alanine supplementation. Based on the current available literature, the conclusions of the ISSN are as follows: 1) Four weeks of beta-alanine supplementation (4-6 g daily) significantly augments muscle carnosine concentrations, thereby acting as an intracellular pH buffer; 2) Beta-alanine supplementation currently appears to be safe in healthy populations at recommended doses; 3) The only reported side effect is paraesthesia (tingling), but studies indicate this can be attenuated by using divided lower doses (1.6 g) or using a sustained-release formula; 4) Daily supplementation with 4 to 6 g of beta-alanine for at least 2 to 4 weeks has been shown to improve exercise performance, with more pronounced effects in open end-point tasks/time trials lasting 1 to 4 min in duration; 5) Beta-alanine attenuates neuromuscular fatigue, particularly in older subjects, and preliminary evidence indicates that beta-alanine may improve tactical performance; 6) Combining beta-alanine with other single or multi-ingredient supplements may be advantageous when supplementation of beta-alanine is high enough (4-6 g daily) and long enough (minimum 4weeks); 7) More research is needed to determine the effects of beta-alanine on strength, endurance performance beyond 25min in duration, and other health-related benefits associated with carnosine.

Publication Date

7-15-2015

Publication Title

Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition

Volume

12

Issue

1

Document Type

Editorial Material

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-015-0090-y

Socpus ID

84937012949 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84937012949

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