Alanine (abbreviated as Ala or A) is a non-polar α-amino acid, with the formula CH3CH(NH2)COOH.
Contents
Uses
- Alanine is used for improving athletic performance and exercise capacity, building lean muscle mass, and improving physical functioning in the elderly.
Benefits
- Physical performance. Some research shows that taking beta-alanine modestly improves some measures of physical performance, especially during high-intensity exercise and strength training. Beta-alanine supplements might also improve physical performance and delay muscle fatigue in older adults.
- Researchers are hopeful that these benefits might lower fall risk, but it’s too early to know that for sure. Other research shows that a specific product containing beta-alanine, creatine monohydrate, arginine, alpha-ketoisocaproate, and leucine (NO-Shotgun) might increase fat-free mass and strength in men participating in resistance training.
- However, not all research shows beneficial effects of beta-alanine on physical performance. The conflicting results might be due to the small numbers of participants in studies or the variability in doses used, duration of supplementation, variable exercise protocol, and populations studied. Most research has used a specific beta-alanine product (CarnoSyn, Natural Alternatives International).
Cautions
- Beta-alanine is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth appropriately for a short time. Side effects have not been reported with moderate doses of beta-alanine. High doses can cause flushing and tingling.
Interactions
Unknown, please consult with your doctor.
Other names
3-aminopropanoic acid, 3-aminopropionic Acid, Acide 3-aminopropanoïque, Acide 3-aminopropionique, Acide Aminé Non Essentiel, Acide Bêta-Aminé, b-Ala, B-alanine, B-aminopropionic Acid, Beta-alanina, Bêta-Alanine, Beta-alanine Ethyl Ester, Beta-amino Acid, Non-essential Amino Acid
References
Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alanine