Abstract
Beta-alanine supplementation (BA) has a positive impact on physical performance. However, evidence showing a benefit of this amino acid in aerobic–anaerobic transition zones is scarce and the results controversial. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to analyze the effects of BA supplementation on physical performance in aerobic–anaerobic transition zones. At the same time, the effect of different dosages and durations of BA supplementation were identified. The search was designed in accordance with the PRISMA® guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and performed in Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, SPORTDiscus, PubMed, and MEDLINE between 2010 and 2020. The methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated with the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The main variables were the Time Trial Test (TTT) and Time to Exhaustion (TTE) tests, the latter separated into the Limited Time Test (LTT) and Limited Distance Test (LDT). The analysis was carried out with a pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) through Hedges’ g test (95% CI). Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, revealing a small effect for time in the TTT (SMD, −0.36; 95% CI, −0.87–0.16; I2 = 59%; p = 0.010), a small effect for LTT (SMD, 0.25; 95% CI, −0.01–0.51; I2 = 0%; p = 0.53), and a large effect for LDT (SMD, 4.27; 95% CI, −0.25–8.79; I2 = 94%; p = 0.00001). BA supplementation showed small effects on physical performance in aerobic–anaerobic transition zones. Evidence on acute supplementation is scarce (one study); therefore, exploration of acute supplementation with different dosages and formats on physical performance in aerobic–anaerobic transition zones is needed.
Highlights
A proper diet is one of the main factors in the improvement of physical performance
The results showed that changes in physical performance are associated with both acute and chronic BA supplementation, while the administered doses ranged from 1.5−6.4 g/day in periods ranging from 1 h before physical tests to 10 weeks with one or several doses during the day
CA, which allows for a delay in the onset of fatigue in the Trial Test (TTT) and Time to Exhaustion (TTE) tests within this specific physiologic zone
Summary
Sometimes it is not enough to meet the energetic demands of training sessions [1] For this reason and with the aim of maximizing physical performance, the use of nutritional supplements is widespread in sport [2], even more in younger athletes [3]. Nutritional supplements, such as protein and carbohydrates, are concentrated nutrient sources that substitute or complement the use of certain foods, while ergogenic aids, such as caffeine, creatine, or beta-alanine (BA), are pharmacological agents used with the aim of enhancing physical performance [4] In this regard, one study showed that. Beef, and fish are products with a large BA content [9]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
