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Effectiveness of acute L-arginine supplementation on physical performance in strength training: a systematic review and meta-analysis

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Oct 19, 2021 version files 4.38 KB

Abstract

The oral administration of L-arginine has been related to improved physical performance due to a likely reduction in muscle fatigue, resulting from the vasodilator effect of nitric oxide on skeletal muscle. However, there is no precise and quantitative analysis of the information in the literature. Objective: The main objective was to assess the effectiveness of L-arginine supplementation on physical performance in strength training with a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Systematic review and meta-analysis, the PRISMA® (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis), PICOS statement and methodology guidelines, the quality of evidence by Classification of Assessment, Development and Assessment Recommendations (GRADE), Multiple Systematic Review Tool Assessment (AMSTAR2), and to assess the risk of bias of randomized clinical trials, the RoB 2.0 tool (Risk of Bias - Cochrane risk of bias tool revised for randomized trials). The inclusion process established articles with well-designed human experiments that included only L-arginine supplementation testing the effects of L-arginine supplementation on sports performance related to strength training; identical experimental conditions in placebo or control group; and publications in the last ten years (until December 31, 2020). Three studies were included that compared L-arginine supplementation with placebo in anaerobic performance tests. Results: There was no significant heterogeneity (p>0.05) in the analysis of the three selected articles and the effects of L-arginine supplementation in muscular endurance; performance had a mean of 0.26 (95% CI = -0.129; 0.649; p = 0.190), peak torque with a mean of -0.002 (95% CI = -0.531; 0.527; p = 0. 99) of the third series of exercises and, furthermore, when comparing the integrated effect (resistance rate with the peak torque) there was no difference with a mean of 0.168 (95% CI = -0.145; 0.481; p = 0.292).

Conclusions: Acute L-arginine supplementation provides no ergogenic effect on strength training performance.