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Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
Published in: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 1/2017

Open Access 01-12-2017 | Research article

The effects of phenylalanine on exercise-induced fat oxidation: a preliminary, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial

Authors: Keisuke Ueda, Chiaki Sanbongi, Makoto Yamaguchi, Shuji Ikegami, Takafumi Hamaoka, Satoshi Fujita

Published in: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition | Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Background

When combined with exercise, dietary amino acid (AA) supplementation is an effective method for accelerating fat mobilization. However, the effects of single AAs combined with exercise on fat oxidation remains unclear. We hypothesized that consumption of a specific amino acid, L- phenylalanine, may result in the secretion of glucagon, and when combined with exercise may promote fat oxidation.

Methods

Six healthy, active male volunteers were randomized in a crossover study to ingest either phenylalanine (3 g/dose) or placebo. Thirty minutes after ingestion each subject performed workload trials on a cycle ergometer for 1 h at 50% of maximal oxygen consumption.

Results

Oral intake of phenylalanine caused a significant increase in the concentrations of plasma glycerol and glucagon during exercise. The respiratory exchange ratio was also decreased significantly following ingestion of phenylalanine.

Conclusion

These results suggested that pre-exercise supplementation of phenylalanine may stimulate whole body fat oxidation. No serious or study-related adverse events were observed.

Trial registration

UMIN000027502 Registered 26 May 2017. Restrospectively registered.
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Metadata
Title
The effects of phenylalanine on exercise-induced fat oxidation: a preliminary, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial
Authors
Keisuke Ueda
Chiaki Sanbongi
Makoto Yamaguchi
Shuji Ikegami
Takafumi Hamaoka
Satoshi Fujita
Publication date
01-12-2017
Publisher
BioMed Central
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0191-x

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