The role and effects of carnosine and beta-alanine on exercise: an updated mini review

Purpose - The paper aims to describe the role and effects of carnosine and beta-alanine on exercise. Design/methodology/approach - The review includes the most updated studies found in Pub-Med all of which are in relation to carnosine and beta-alanine on exercise performance. Findings - The use of beta-alanine in recent research has shown to increase muscle carnosine concentrations in as short as two weeks, with increasing levels with longer supplementation periods. Although there is strong support that beta-alanine supplementation during training possesses ergogenic value, the specific mechanism of action and ergogenic value remains to be fully examined. Originality/value - The paper gives information to nutritionists, clinical dietitians and sports nutritionists on the newest data about the role and effects of carnosine and beta-alanine on exercise performance.