The role and effects of carnosine and β-alanine on exercise: an updated mini review

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to describe the role and effects of carnosine and β-alanine on exercise.

Design/methodology/approach

The review includes the most updated studies found in Pub-Med all of which are in relation to carnosine and β-alanine on exercise performance.

Findings

The use of β-alanine in recent research has shown to increase muscle carnosine concentrations in as short as two weeks, with increasing levels with longer supplementation periods. Although there is strong support that β-alanine supplementation during training possesses ergogenic value, the specific mechanism of action and ergogenic value remains to be fully examined.

Originality/value

The paper gives information to nutritionists, clinical dietitians and sports nutritionists on the newest data about the role and effects of carnosine and β-alanine on exercise performance.

Citation

Lily, E. and Papandreou, D. (2014), "The role and effects of carnosine and β-alanine on exercise: an updated mini review", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 44 No. 2, pp. 127-133. https://doi.org/10.1108/NFS-04-2013-0044