The Claim

Supplementation with 2.4g/day L-citrulline in male sub-elite badminton players sustains aerobic endurance benefits over time, with the largest effect observed at 72 hours post-supplementation (d=1.892), indicating a physiological adaptation pattern inconsistent with an acute pharmacological mechanism.

Source: The effect of citrulline on delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and aerobic and anaerobic endurance in sub elite athletes

What the research says

Supports is higher

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

Supports
67score
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.

How it works
1 study reviewed
In plain English

In male sub-elite badminton players, taking 2.4 grams of L-citrulline daily results in sustained improvements in aerobic endurance, with the greatest improvement occurring 72 hours after taking the supplement, suggesting the effect builds over time rather than occurring immediately.

See the scientific wording

The aerobic endurance benefit from 2.4g/day L-citrulline in male sub-elite badminton players is sustained over time, with the largest effect observed at 72 hours post-supplementation (d=1.892), suggesting cumulative or delayed physiological adaptation rather than acute pharmacological effect.

Why this might work

L-citrulline is converted into arginine, which the body uses to make nitric oxide. Nitric oxide opens up blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow to the muscles. This brings more oxygen and nutrients while flushing out waste products like ammonia and lactate that cause fatigue. Over several days, this improved blood flow helps muscles recover faster and work longer without tiring.

Supported mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study

  1. Study: The effect of citrulline on delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and aerobic and anaerobic endurance in sub elite athletes

    The study found that badminton players who took citrulline for a week felt less tired during endurance exercises three days after starting, and that’s when they performed best — not right away. This suggests citrulline slowly helps the body adapt, rather than giving a quick boost.

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

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