L-Citrulline

L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid that supports the body's natural production of nitric oxide, enhancing blood flow and circulation. It is often used in exercise supplements to help with muscle endurance and reduce fatigue during physical activity.

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L-Citrulline

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Ingredient guide

L-Citrulline

What it is: L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid naturally present in the body and in certain foods, especially watermelon. It is a key part of the urea cycle, which helps dispose of excess nitrogen.
What it does: In the body, L-citrulline is involved in converting ammonia to urea for excretion and helps stimulate nitric oxide production, supporting healthy blood vessel function and circulation.
How it is used: This amino acid is commonly found in sports nutrition and pre-workout supplements to promote muscle endurance, support blood flow, and enhance exercise performance.
Natural sources and supplement forms: L-Citrulline occurs naturally in watermelon and some other fruits and vegetables. Supplement forms include pure L-citrulline powder, capsules, and L-citrulline malate (a compound blended with malic acid).
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Brands include L-citrulline for its potential to support circulation, exercise stamina, and muscle oxygenation by aiding nitric oxide pathways.
What to know before use: L-Citrulline is generally well tolerated, but those with low blood pressure or taking medications that influence circulation should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Interesting Fact

L-Citrulline: Watermelon’s Secret Amino Acid

L-Citrulline gets its name from Citrullus, the Latin word for watermelon, because it was first discovered in watermelon pulp over a century ago. This non-essential amino acid is a key player in the body’s urea cycle, helping convert ammonia to urea for excretion. Naturally present in watermelon, L-citrulline is often used in supplements to support natural metabolic pathways.

FAQ

Common questions about L-Citrulline

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About L-Citrulline

What is L-Citrulline and how does it support exercise performance?

L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid that supports nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide helps relax and widen blood vessels, which can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise. L-Citrulline is commonly used in pre-workout supplements to support endurance, performance, and the “muscle pump” sensation during workouts.

What is the difference between L-Citrulline and L-Arginine in supplements?

Both L-Citrulline and L-Arginine are amino acids involved in nitric oxide production, but L-Citrulline is often preferred in supplements because it is more efficiently absorbed and converted into L-Arginine in the body. This means L-Citrulline can support sustained nitric oxide levels better than L-Arginine when taken orally.

Are there natural food sources of L-Citrulline?

Watermelon is the most notable natural source of L-Citrulline, with smaller amounts found in other fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, gourds, and certain squashes. However, the amounts in food are usually lower than what is provided in dietary supplements aimed at supporting exercise performance or blood flow.

Can L-Citrulline be taken with other ingredients for better results?

L-Citrulline is often paired with malic acid in the form of L-citrulline malate to support energy production and reduce muscle fatigue. It’s also commonly combined with ingredients like beta-alanine, creatine, or caffeine in pre-workout formulas to provide a broader range of exercise performance support.