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

Background and Aim: 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. Method: 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. Results: 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). Conclusion: It seems that consuming CM following an intense resistance exercise session may reduce LDH levels but it does not improve RPE after exercise.