Beta-Alanine: What You Need To Know

An amino acid which is popular with fitness fanatics as a pre-workout booster, beta-alanine is known for its great performance boosting effects. This supplement, unlike many others on the market, is hailed as a wonder supplement for its anecdotal evidence and constant reports of its effectiveness. It is quite a complex addition to one’s diet, so if you can educate yourself on the ways in which it works, you may find it easier to use it effectively and reap the rewards.

Beta-alanine is naturally sourced and is found as part of peptides, such as anserine and balenine which are found in poultry, fish and meat. You can also add this into your diet through dietary supplements. When we exercise, anaerobic metabolism occurs which is where the body sources energy without oxygen. This causes lactic acid to build in the muscles which accumulates and interferes with the muscle fibres, causing temporary muscle fatigue. Beta-alanine has been proven to have a positive impact on the endurance of the body during the anaerobic stage.

You’ll start to notice benefits soon after taking supplements, in some cases as soon as two weeks after beginning. You will notice some immediate benefits as well though, such as improved circulation – the muscle begins to pump from the first ingestion, so many people state that they feel a flushing feeling which can boost the psychological element of your workout. There are some side effects to watch out for – the flushing sensation can sometimes lead to a prickling, ‘pins and needles’ feeling which is the beta-alanine reacting with the nerves in the skin. This effect is known as parethesia and can sometimes be made worse if coupled with caffeine. There are no known side effects which will cause anything other than a slight discomfort though – if you’re concerned, speak to your GP who can advise you. If you want to boost your performance, beta-alanine can do wonders for your exercise regime.