L-Citrulline Supplementation in Exercise: Effects on Blood Flow, Muscular Performance, and Post-Exercise Recovery — A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.77.76189Keywords
L-citrulline, citrulline malate, nitric oxide, blood flow, exercise performance, muscle recovery, dietary supplementsAbstract
Background. L-citrulline increases L-arginine availability and may enhance nitric oxide synthesis, vascular function, exercise performance, and recovery.
Aim. To evaluate the effects of L-citrulline and citrulline malate supplementation on blood flow, muscular performance, fatigue, and post-exercise recovery.
Methods. A structured narrative review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, supplemented by reference-list screening and citation tracking.
Results. L-citrulline increases circulating L-arginine concentrations, but its effects on exercise performance remain inconsistent. Citrulline malate may modestly improve muscular endurance during high-volume resistance exercise, whereas evidence concerning maximal strength, power, and aerobic performance is inconclusive. Supplementation may reduce muscle soreness, but evidence for accelerated functional recovery remains limited.
Conclusions. L-citrulline is generally well tolerated, but its ergogenic effects appear modest and dependent on the exercise context. Further studies using verified formulations and standardized protocols are required.
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