L-Citrulline
L-Citrulline is a naturally occurring amino acid that plays a key role in nitric oxide production, cardiovascular health, muscle endurance, and metabolic function. It is widely used in sports nutrition, cardiovascular support, and overall wellness due to its ability to enhance blood flow and reduce fatigue.
What is L-Citrulline?
L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid found in foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pumpkins. It is a precursor to L-Arginine, meaning it indirectly boosts nitric oxide (NO) levels, which help relax blood vessels and improve circulation. Unlike L-Arginine, L-Citrulline is more efficiently absorbed and converted into nitric oxide, making it a superior choice for enhancing vascular health and physical performance.
Health Benefits of L-Citrulline
- Enhances Cardiovascular Health and Blood Flow
L-Citrulline promotes vasodilation by increasing nitric oxide production, helping to reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, and support heart health. It may benefit individuals with hypertension and arterial stiffness. - Boosts Exercise Performance and Reduces Fatigue
L-Citrulline improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to muscles, reducing fatigue and enhancing endurance. It also helps remove ammonia and lactic acid, delaying muscle soreness and improving workout recovery. - Supports Erectile Function and Sexual Health
By improving blood flow, L-Citrulline may help individuals experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED). It has been studied as a natural alternative to PDE5 inhibitors due to its ability to increase nitric oxide levels. - Aids in Muscle Growth and Recovery
L-Citrulline plays a role in protein synthesis and ammonia detoxification, helping muscles recover more efficiently post-exercise. It also supports arginine and growth hormone production, essential for muscle repair. - May Improve Cognitive Function
By enhancing blood circulation to the brain, L-Citrulline may support cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity, particularly in aging individuals.
Scientific Support
- Cardiovascular Health: Improves nitric oxide production and arterial function (Miller K, 2023).
- Exercise Performance: Enhances endurance and reduces muscle fatigue (Harnden et al., 2023).
- Erectile Function: Increases nitric oxide levels and supports vasodilation (Cormio et al., 2011).
- Muscle Recovery: Reduces post-exercise soreness and enhances recovery (Rhim et al., 2020).
- Cognitive Function: May enhance cerebral blood flow and neuroprotection (Kurauchi et al., 2017).