Muscle Strength And Power Before And After Sublingual Administration Of L-lysine, Co-enzyme Q10, And Vitamins And Minerals

Abstract

When a substance comes in contact with the buccal mucosa on the underside of the tongue it diffuses through the dense capillarized membrane of the area. Most substances may be suitable to sublingual administration if they dissolve readily in saliva and many drugs are much more potent taken sublingually. Factors such as pH, molecular weight, and lipid solubility, determine the rate and strength of absorption. Nutrients, chemicals, and drugs may be administered this manner to provide faster absorption and response. PURPOSE: To determine the effectiveness of a sublingual, ergogenic spray containing vitamins, minerals, an amino acid, and a co-enzyme on muscle performance in highly trained college football players. METHODS: Twenty-three Division I, NCAA offensive and defensive football linemen voluntarily participated in the study after signing a consent form. On day one, all participants were completed a questionnaire, were measured, warmed up, stretched, and were tested on number of maximum bench press repetitions (102kg. [225 lb]), the vertical jump, and grip strength. One week later participants were randomly given the placebo (p= 11) or the treatment (p=12) spray and retested. Administration was double blind and spray containers were marked A and B. RESULTS: Subjects (20.11 + 1.45 yrs; 132.1 + 9.85 kg; 191.19 + 3.85 cm). Results of repeated measures ANOVAs yielded a significant (p=.047) improvement for the experimental group in the bench press. The experimental groups demonstrated greater but not significant improvement in both the vertical jump (p=.65) and grip strength (p=.74). CONCLUSIONS: While a significant improvement was found for the maximum repetition bench press and positive trends in both the vertical jump and grip strength for the experimental group, it is possible that a standardized dose (4 sprays) is too limiting for individuals averaging over 132 kg (290 lbs) and should be administered based on body weight. The tests used in this study were field-tests and may not be sensitive enough to elicit subtle responses. Additional research should focus on computerized strength testing for greater data discrimination.