Authors: Tobias G, Benatti FB, de Salles Painelli V, Roschel H, Gualano B, Sale C, Harris RC, Lancha AH Jr, Artioli GG.

(2013) Amino Acids, Amino Acids.

Commentary by Heather Hynes

Research in the area of beta-alanine supplementation has grown dramatically since 2006 and it will continue to grow as the ergogenic effects are demonstrated with highly trained participants. This study aims to explore the potential benefits of supplementation with beta-alanine and also the combined benefits with sodium bicarbonate intake. Thirty seven well trained judo and jiu-jitsu male athletes participated in this randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind study. The participants were divided into 4 groups; placebo + placebo, beta-alanine + placebo, placebo + sodium bicarbonate and beta-alanine + sodium bicarbonate. The exercise protocol was 4 x 30 second upper body Wingate tests separated by 3 minutes of recovery. The findings of this study clearly indicate an additive effect; noting greater performance results and decreased rates of perceived exertion during high intensity intermittent exercise with the beta-alanine and sodium bicarbonate supplement group.