Posted on May 20, 2010 by Dave W

I recently read an article in my favourite cycling magazine ‘Health and Fitness for Cyclist’s’ about how taking Arginine as a supplement can help with your anaerobic capabilities when you pass 50.

The study was carried out by researchers at Biomed Central and their findings published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.

It was reported that a combination of the amino acid and an antioxidant in 16 cyclists enhanced their anaerobic threshold.

The 16 cyclists aged between 50 and 73 were randomly assigned either a placebo or the supplement.

After just one week the anaerobic threshold of the supplement group was improved and still preserved in week three. The placebo group showed no improvement.

As I am stepping up my training, and my training partner is 10 years my junior, I thought I would give it a go.

Not being one to believe everything I read, I thought I had better do some more research.

Apparently Arginine is one of the 20 most common natural amino acids and can be used for erectile dysfunction similarly to Viagra.

Unlike Viagra though, you have to take it daily. A quick search on the mega web and I found more info.

It is recommended you take one tablet 45 minutes before sex, which is useful information if that is what you are using it for.

As I am using it to help my cycling (honest) it is also useful to know that taking it 45 minutes before you get on your bike could raise your hopes prematurely.

Proceeding with caution is advised as you could put a new meaning to the phrase ‘crossbar challenge’.

Seriously, proceeding with caution is advised because after further investigation it appears Arginine can have some serious side effects.

None more serious than causing death in heart attack patients.

It could lower blood pressure because it is involved in the formation of nitric acid. It also may cause indigestion, headache and nausea.

It can increase stomach acid so if you are prone to heartburn it could make it worse.

People with diabetes should avoid Arginine because it may increase blood sugar levels.

I wonder if my health shop does refunds for opened goods.

Keep Moving

Dave W

Cycling For Fitness

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