Short-term effect of Citrulline Malate supplement on LDH and Lactate levels and Resistance Exercise Performance

Citrulline Malate (CM) has proposed as a supplement which improves anaerobic performance. The purpose of this study was to assess the short-term effect of CM on LDH and Lactate levels and resistance exercise performance.

In a crossover study, 16 males (mean Age: 26.4±4.7 years, BFP: 15.4±6.7 %, and BMI: 23.7±2.8 kg.m2) selected as subjects. The subjects were attended 3 resistance exercise sessions in a full body protocol consisting of Hack Squat, Leg Extension, Barbell press and Lat Pull down respectively. An hour Before the beginning of exercise, the subjects consumed 6g CM+250ml water in the first week, placebo consisting of 5g Dextrose+250ml water in the second week, and 8g CM+250 ml water in the last week. Blood Samples were taken from each subject 1 hour before, immediately, and 30min after exercise to measure LDH and Lactate levels. Immediately after each set, rate of perceived exertion (RPE) for all exercises were recorded.

There are no significant changes in Lactate levels between resistance exercise sessions (P>0.05), but there is significant difference in LDH levels (P<0.05). Moreover, no significant change seen in RPE between sessions (P>0.05).

It seems that consuming CM following an intense resistance exercise session may reduce LDH levels but it does not improve RPE after exercise.