Due to our hectic on-the-go lifestyles, we could all do with more energy for those intense after-work gym sessions. Thankfully there is no shortage of suitable products on the shelves of your local supplement store.
One of the more recent developments in energy-boosting, fatigue-fighting products is Citrulline Malate (CitM). It is a combination of the amino acid citrulline and the organic salt malate, and is described as a promising non-essential amino acid that acts as a fatigue fighter, although medical experts have been using it for years to address muscle weakness, and even treat dementia.
Boost performance
CitM’s benefits include the promise of sustained energy, strength and quicker recovery. Based on these benefits, chances are good that if you look on the side of the container of the product you’re currently using, you will find it contains CitM.
CitM works by removing ammonia from the body, which helps to push out the point of fatigue. This allows individuals to work out longer, increase their endurance, and recover more quickly with less soreness.
New research also shows that CitM is also highly effective for elevating arginine and nitric oxide (NO) levels, which dilates blood vessels to boost the delivery of nutrients to working muscles, and clears away metabolic waste more effectively. The end result is an increase in performance.
Health benefits
CitM is said to also help preserve immune function after strenuous exercise, a claim that was substantiated when Spanish researchers studied the effect of the substance on white blood cell function when cyclists were given 6g of CitM before and after a race.
This is significant because the decline in immune function after exercise is associated with the weakened function of white blood cells, which are the body’s first line of defense against infection.
These benefits make supplements that contain CitM ideal for use by strength athletes and physique-conscious gym-goers.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
Leave a Reply