The effects of creatine and L-carnitine supplementation on anaerobic performance in athletes

This study investigated the effects of creatine and L-carnitine supplementation on anaerobic performance and body weight changes in athletes. In this single-blind randomized clinical trial, 45 athletes were selected and randomly divided into four groups supplemented with: a) Creatine, b) L-carnitine, c) Creatine- L- carnitine and D) placebo. The supplementation period was 28 days. Wingate anaerobic test was done for assessing athlete's anaerobic performance and their weights were measured before and after the supplementation period. To compare the variables before and after each test, paired t-test and anova are used compare within and between variables respecdivey. The anaerobic performance indices in the groups receiving creatine and creatine- L-carnitine were significantly increased after intervention. Body weights were also significantly increased in the supplemented groups. Based on the dosage and duration of supplementation in this study, concurrent creatine and L-carnitine supplementation has positive effects on anaerobic performance. Despite L-carnitine is a weight loss agent, the findings of this study showed weight gain in the supplemented groups.