The Claim

L-citrulline-malate supplementation for 8 weeks during resistance training does not significantly increase lean mass compared to placebo in resistance-trained males.

Source: Eight weeks of resistance training in conjunction with glutathione and L-Citrulline supplementation increases lean mass and has no adverse effects on blood clinical safety markers in resistance-trained males

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
63score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Cause and effect
1 study reviewed
In plain English

In resistance-trained males, taking L-citrulline-malate for 8 weeks while doing resistance training results in no significant difference in lean mass compared to taking a placebo.

See the scientific wording

L-citrulline-malate supplementation for 8 weeks during resistance training does not significantly increase lean mass compared to placebo in resistance-trained males.

Why this might work

L-citrulline increases arginine levels, which boosts nitric oxide production; nitric oxide activates a signaling molecule called cGMP that should trigger muscle growth, but in trained individuals, this signal does not last long enough or strong enough to build more muscle over time.

Supported mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study

  1. Study: Eight weeks of resistance training in conjunction with glutathione and L-Citrulline supplementation increases lean mass and has no adverse effects on blood clinical safety markers in resistance-trained males

    The study found that taking L-citrulline-malate for 8 weeks while lifting weights didn't help trained men build more muscle than taking a sugar pill. So, the supplement didn't make a difference.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.