Abstract
Evaluation of the prevalence, knowledge and attitudes relating to β-alanine use among athletes
British Journal of Sports Medicine, Vol.47(17), p.e4
International Sports Science & Sports Medicine Conference (ISSSMC), 2013 (Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom, 21-Aug-2013–23-Aug-2013)
2013
Abstract
ß-alanine is an amino acid involved in the synthesis of carnosine, an intramuscular compound that buffers pH and has been associated with improvements in high intensity exercise performance. Little is currently known about the supplementation habits of ß-alanine in professional athletes. The aim of this study was to investigate ß-alanine supplementation use amongst professional athletes. Surveys assessing ß-alanine practices beliefs and sources of information were completed by 570 professional footballers from Super Rugby (SR), Rugby League (NRL) and Australian Rules Football (AFL) in Australia. Approximately 61% of athletes reported ß-alanine use, but use by AFL players was below that of SR and NRL. 90% of respondents had misconceptions on ß-alanine's use, or were not using ß-alanine in accordance with recommendations. Up to 60% of users experienced paraesthesia symptoms from ß-alanine use and 70% of users sourced their information from strength and conditioning coaches, dietitians (~50%), trainers(~25%), and/or sport scientists (~15%). Compared to NRL and AFL players, SR players had both a greater knowledge of ß-alanine supplementation and better supplementation practices. This survey data of Australian professional football athletes indicates that, despite over half the athlete population using ß-alanine, the majority of athletes had misconceptions relating to its use.
Details
- Title
- Evaluation of the prevalence, knowledge and attitudes relating to β-alanine use among athletes
- Authors
- V G Kelly (Author) - University of QueenslandDavid G Jenkins (Author) - University of QueenslandM D Leveritt (Author) - University of QueenslandC T Brennan (Author) - University of QueenslandGary J Slater (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
- Publication details
- British Journal of Sports Medicine, Vol.47(17), p.e4
- Conference details
- International Sports Science & Sports Medicine Conference (ISSSMC), 2013 (Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom, 21-Aug-2013–23-Aug-2013)
- Publisher
- B M J Group
- Date published
- 2013
- DOI
- 10.1136/bjsports-2013-093073.35
- ISSN
- 0306-3674
- Organisation Unit
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health - Nutrition & Dietetics; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99448785002621
- Output Type
- Abstract
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