beta-alanine

Beta-alanine is a naturally occurring non-essential amino acid and the only naturally occurring beta-amino acid. It is formed in the body by the degradation of dihydrouracil and carnosine[4][6]. Beta-alanine acts as a rate-limiting precursor to carnosine synthesis in muscle cells; carnosine functions as an important intracellular buffer, helping to maintain pH balance during high-intensity exercise by buffering lactic acid[5][6][8]. Supplementation with beta-alanine increases muscle carnosine concentrations, which can enhance exercise performance (especially for activities lasting 1–10 minutes), delay neuromuscular fatigue, and improve total muscular work done[5][8]. Mechanistically, beta-alanine also interacts with several neurotransmitter systems in the brain and may act as a false transmitter replacing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)[4][6]. It has been studied for potential benefits beyond sports performance, including antioxidant effects and possible roles in aging and metabolic health[1][8].

Brand names

CarnoSyn

Other names

β-alanine3-aminopropanoic acid