The effects of L-citrulline supplementation on cerebrovascular function during sprint interval training in taekwondo athletes.

BACKGROUND

Sprint Interval Training (SIT), a high - intensity exercise commonly used to improve athletic performance in combat sports, can affect cerebral blood flow. As the maintenance of cerebrovascular health is crucial for athletic performance and recovery, this study aimed to examine the effects of L-citrulline supplementation on cerebrovascular function following SIT in Taekwondo athletes.

METHODS

Twenty male Taekwondo athletes (ages 18-30) participated in a double-blind, randomized crossover design. Participants received either 8.8 g of L-citrulline or a placebo (maltodextrin) for 5 consecutive days. The protocol involved four 30-s maximal sprints. Cerebrovascular function was assessed using transcranial Doppler (TCD) to measure changes in the breath-holding index (ΔBHI) and Pulse Index (ΔPI) before and after exercise.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found for average power between conditions (F = 1.27, P = 0.275, η  = 0.07). A significant improvement in cerebrovascular function was observed in the L-citrulline group, with a positive change in ΔBHI (F = 5.09, P = 0.037, η  = 0.22). No significant effect was found for ΔPI (F = 0.19, P = 0.669, η  = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

L-citrulline supplementation enhanced cerebrovascular function recovery after SIT, suggesting a protective effect for Taekwondo athletes engaged in high-intensity training by promoting cerebral vascular health without affecting performance or peripheral resistance.