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European Journal of Applied Physiology

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Open Access 10-02-2024 | Nitrate | Original Article

Impact of a short-term nitrate and citrulline co-supplementation on sport performance in elite rowers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial

Authors: Aitor Viribay, Juan M. A. Alcantara, Iker López, Juan Mielgo-Ayuso, Arkaitz Castañeda-Babarro

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 6/2024

Abstract

Purpose

Citrulline (CIT) and beetroot extract (BR) have separately shown benefits in rowing performance-related outcomes. However, effects of combined supplementation remain to be elucidated. The main purpose of this research was to study the effects of 1 week of daily co-supplementation of 3.5 g BR (500 mg NO₃⁻) plus 6 g CIT on aerobic performance, maximal strength, and high-intensity power and peak stroke in elite male rowers compared to a placebo and to a BR supplementation.

Methods

20 elite rowers participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial completing 1 week of supplementation in each group of study: Placebo group (PLAG); BR group (BRG); and BR + CIT group (BR-CITG). 3 main physical tests were performed: aerobic performance, Wingate test and CMJ jump, and metabolic biomarkers and physiological outcomes were collected.

Results

The Wingate all-out test showed no between-condition differences in peak power, mean power, relative power, or fatigue index (P > 0.05), but clearance of lactate was better in BR-CITG (P < 0.05). In the performance test, peak power differed only between PLAG and BR-CITG (P = 0.036), while VO2peak and maximum heart rate remained similar. CMJ jumping test results showed no between-condition differences, and blood samples were consistent (P > 0.200).

Conclusion

Supplementation with 3.5 g of BR extract plus 6 g of CIT for 7 days improved lactate clearance after Wingate test and peak power in a performance test. No further improvements were found, suggesting longer period of supplementation might be needed to show greater benefits.

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Title: Impact of a short-term nitrate and citrulline co-supplementation on sport performance in elite rowers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial
Authors: Aitor Viribay
Juan M. A. Alcantara
Iker López
Juan Mielgo-Ayuso
Arkaitz Castañeda-Babarro
Publication date: 10-02-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keyword: Nitrate
Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 6/2024
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-024-05415-4

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Impact of a short-term nitrate and citrulline co-supplementation on sport performance in elite rowers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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