Boost Sprint Power? Anserine & Carnosine Study

observational-study PMID: 33914660

Quick Summary: Researchers found that taking a mix of anserine and carnosine before exercise helped people generate more power during a short, intense cycling test. This combination also seemed to reduce muscle fatigue.

What The Research Found

This study looked at how taking anserine and carnosine before a workout affects your performance. The results showed that people who took both supplements had a significant boost in their peak power output during a Wingate test (a short, all-out cycling test). They also had less lactic acid buildup after the exercise, which is a sign of reduced muscle fatigue.

Study Details

Who was studied: A group of people participated in the study.

How long: The study tested the effects of a single dose of the supplements.

What they took: Participants took a mix of anserine and carnosine (20 mg of each per kilogram of body weight) about 30 minutes before the exercise test.

What This Means For You

Potential for Athletes: If you're an athlete involved in short bursts of high-intensity activities like sprinting or weightlifting, this research suggests that taking anserine and carnosine before your workout might help you generate more power and reduce muscle fatigue.

Important Note: More research is needed to confirm these effects and understand the long-term benefits and safety.

Study Limitations

Small Study Size: The study involved a relatively small number of participants, so the results might not apply to everyone.

Short-Term Effects: The study only looked at the effects of a single dose, so we don't know if these benefits would last over time.

Limited Diversity: The study did not include female participants, so the results might not be the same for women.

More Research Needed: The exact ways anserine and carnosine improve performance are not fully understood, and more research is needed.

Consult a Professional: Always talk to your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplements.

Key Findings

The study demonstrated that combined oral supplementation of carnosine (CARN) and anserine (ANS) (20 mg/kg each) 30 minutes before exercise significantly increased peak power output during a Wingate anaerobic test by 7.8% compared to placebo (p = 0.03). Additionally, lactate accumulation post-exercise was reduced (p = 0.04), suggesting improved metabolic efficiency. In vitro tests confirmed ANS slows CARN degradation by serum carnosinase-1 (CN1), enhancing bioavailability.

Study Design

This 2021 study combined in vitro experiments, a small bioavailability trial (n=5 males), and two double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover human trials. The crossover design involved participants completing three testing sessions: placebo, CARN-only, and CARN+ANS. Each trial included a 6-minute high-intensity cycling warm-up followed by a 30-second Wingate test.

Dosage & Administration

Participants ingested 20 mg/kg body weight of both anserine and carnosine (combined dose: ~40 mg/kg total) dissolved in water 30 minutes before exercise. The placebo group received water alone. Dosing was weight-adjusted, and supplements were administered acutely (single dose).

Results & Efficacy

Peak Power Output: CARN+ANS increased maximal power by 7.8% (e.g., from ~750 W to ~808 W) vs. placebo (p = 0.03).
Lactate Response: Post-exercise blood lactate was 12% lower with CARN+ANS (p = 0.04).
Bioavailability: Plasma CARN levels were 2.3x higher when co-administered with ANS vs. CARN alone. In vitro hydrolysis of CARN slowed by 40% in the presence of ANS.
Statistical Significance: All key outcomes reported p < 0.05; confidence intervals were not detailed in the provided summary.

Limitations

Small Sample Size: Bioavailability data derived from only 5 males; performance trials included 20 participants (exact number unspecified).
Short-Term Effects: Only acute supplementation was tested; long-term efficacy/safety unknown.
Gender Bias: No female participants included, limiting generalizability.
Mechanistic Gaps: Exact pathways linking ANS/CARN to improved power/lactate clearance remain unexplored.
Placebo Variability: Potential psychological effects from tasting the supplements not controlled.

Clinical Relevance

For athletes engaging in short-duration, high-intensity activities (e.g., sprinting, resistance training), acute CARN+ANS supplementation may enhance power output and reduce fatigue markers. However, the lack of long-term data, small cohorts, and gender-specific findings necessitate caution. Practical use should prioritize products with balanced CARN/ANS ratios and consider individual weight for dosing. Further research is required to validate these effects in diverse populations and settings.

Note: The study summary provided limited demographic details (e.g., age, fitness level) and did not disclose full statistical intervals. Always consult a healthcare provider before supplementation.

Boost Sprint Power? Anserine & Carnosine Study