Beta Alanine
Beta Alanine is an amino acid that increases muscle endurance by boosting carnosine levels, delaying muscle fatigue during high-intensity exercise.
Beta-Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that increases carnosine levels in muscles, helping to buffer acid buildup during intense exercise.
It is commonly used to delay fatigue and improve endurance, particularly in high-intensity or anaerobic training.
Beta-Alanine is used for performance enhancement. A common side effect is tingling (paresthesia), which is harmless and temporary.
Other names & forms of Beta Alanine supplement : β-alanine, beta-alanine supplement, carnosine precursor, endurance amino acid
Possible Benefits
Beta Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that combines with histidine to form carnosine in muscle tissue, buffering hydrogen ions and delaying muscle fatigue during high-intensity exercise.
- Helps support Muscle Performance & Recovery by increasing intramuscular carnosine levels and reducing lactic acid buildup.
- May boost Energy & Metabolism during workouts by enhancing muscle endurance and power output.
- Contributes to General Health by supporting optimal muscle function and delaying fatigue.
Side Effects
Beta Alanine can enhance muscular endurance, but you might experience a harmless tingling sensation as it accumulates. Look out for:
- Paresthesia, tingling or “pins and needles” on skin, common at higher doses
- Mild flushing or warmth sensation across the face or limbs
- Occasional mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea or cramps, if taken fast
- Rare headache or dizziness in sensitive users
- Temporary mild rash or itching in hypersensitive individuals
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Amino acid supplements: Beta Alanine can form carnosine with histidine; balance use with other amino acids to prevent excess.
- Pre-workout stimulants: Combined with caffeine sources may increase tingling sensations, monitor tolerance.
Precautions
Before incorporating Beta Alanine into your regimen, ensure none of these apply. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:
- Individuals with paresthesia sensitivity: Start with lower doses to gauge tolerance
- People on blood pressure medications: Monitor for additive vasodilatory effects
- Those with renal impairment: Clearance may be reduced; use under supervision
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited research; avoid high supplemental doses
- Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue one week prior, possible interactions with anesthesia and nerve sensitivity
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Beta Alanine benefits:
A 2013 randomized, double-blind trial in 60 healthy men found 4 g/day beta-alanine for 4 weeks increased muscle carnosine and improved 400 m sprint performance by 2.3 % versus placebo .
A 2012 crossover study in 20 cyclists showed beta-alanine for 4 weeks enhanced time‐to‐exhaustion by 13 % compared to placebo.
A 2015 RCT found no significant effect of 3 g/day on perceived muscle soreness or recovery markers versus placebo after resistance exercise .
No RCTs
have evaluated beta-alanine for cognitive function or clinical muscle-wasting conditions in humans.Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you're pregnant, have a condition, or take medication, speak with a qualified professional.




