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European Journal of Applied Physiology

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29-11-2022 | Fatigue | Original Article

Effects of α-lactalbumin on strength, fatigue and psychological parameters: a randomised double-blind cross-over study

Authors: Karen Mackay-Phillips, Lucas B. R. Orssatto, Remco Polman, Jolieke C. Van der Pols, Gabriel S. Trajano

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 2/2023

Abstract

Purpose

The neurotransmitter serotonin has a strong effect on behaviour and motor control. Regarding motor control, serotonin contributes to the development of fatigue and is also involved in the ability of motor neurones to operate across a large range of forces (gain control). The consumption of tryptophan-rich supplements (such as α-lactalbumin) is of interest because this amino acid is the only precursor for brain serotonin synthesis. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of α-lactalbumin supplementation on neuromuscular performance.

Methods

Using a randomised double-blind cross-over design, 16 healthy participants performed plantar flexor and handgrip maximal voluntary contractions, a 30-s submaximal handgrip contraction, and a plantar flexor fatigue protocol before and 90 min after consuming either 40 g of α-lactalbumin, an isonitrogenous beverage (Zein) or an isocaloric beverage (corn-starch). Sleepiness, mood, and cognition were assessed to evaluate any psychological effects.

Results

α-Lactalbumin decreased force steadiness by 25% during the sustained submaximal handgrip contraction (p < 0.01) and induced greater fatigue (15% reduction in total torque–time integral, p = 0.01) during the fatigue protocol. These effects were not observed for the other control beverages. No effects were found for maximal or explosive strength, or psychological measurements.

Conclusions

40 g of α-lactalbumin increased handgrip force variability and reduced performance during fatiguing muscle contractions but did not influence brief maximal contractions or psychological parameters in healthy individuals. These findings support the hypothesis that the consumption of α-lactalbumin can increase motor neurone input–output gain and exacerbate central fatigue during sustained maximal exercise.

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Title: Effects of α-lactalbumin on strength, fatigue and psychological parameters: a randomised double-blind cross-over study
Authors: Karen Mackay-Phillips
Lucas B. R. Orssatto
Remco Polman
Jolieke C. Van der Pols
Gabriel S. Trajano
Publication date: 29-11-2022
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keyword: Fatigue
Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 2/2023
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-022-05103-1

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Effects of α-lactalbumin on strength, fatigue and psychological parameters: a randomised double-blind cross-over study

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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