L-citrulline is an amino acid that’s naturally produced in the body and is also available as a dietary supplement. It’s often used to support athletic performance and overall health.
Doctor’s Best is a well-known brand in the world of nutritional supplements. Their Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder is designed to support nitric oxide metabolism, muscle protein synthesis, and vascular health.
If you’re an athlete or are just looking to support your overall health, L-citrulline may be an option for you. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder, including its benefits, ingredients, how to use it, and any potential side effects.
WHAT IS L-CITRULLINE AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Understanding L-Citrulline
L-citrulline is classified as a non-essential amino acid. That means your body can make it on its own. However, taking it as a supplement can still have benefits.
You might be wondering how L-citrulline differs from L-arginine. L-citrulline is actually a precursor to L-arginine. When you take L-citrulline, your body converts it into L-arginine. Some studies have found that supplementing with L-citrulline is more effective at raising L-arginine levels than taking L-arginine directly.
The Role of Nitric Oxide
So, what happens after you take L-citrulline? Well, the kidneys convert the L-citrulline into L-arginine, which then helps boost nitric oxide levels.
Why is that important? Nitric oxide helps your blood vessels relax and widen, which is known as vasodilation. This leads to better blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout your body.
Improved circulation can lead to a number of benefits, including:
- Enhanced athletic performance
- Reduced muscle fatigue
- Improved cardiovascular health
Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder: Product Details and Features
Let’s dive into the specifics of Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder, looking at what it offers and what you should know before trying it.
Product Overview
Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder comes in a 7-ounce container, which provides around 66 servings. A single serving is one scoop (3 grams).
Doctor’s Best highlights the following benefits of their L-Citrulline Powder:
- Supports nitric oxide metabolism
- Supports muscle protein synthesis
- Supports vascular health
Ingredient Profile
The primary active ingredient is L-Citrulline (Kyowa Quality), with 3 grams per serving. Because it’s a pure powder, there aren’t any other ingredients listed, but it’s always a good idea to double-check the label yourself.
Doctor’s Best also notes that this product is:
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Vegan
It also doesn’t contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, which is great if you’re trying to avoid those additives.
Benefits of Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder
Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder is popular because of its potential benefits, including:
Enhanced Athletic Performance
L-citrulline can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to your muscles during exercise. This can lead to increased endurance and decreased muscle fatigue, meaning you can push harder and recover faster.
Support for Muscle Protein Synthesis
L-citrulline might help increase protein synthesis in your muscles, which is key for both muscle recovery and muscle growth. If you’re trying to build muscle or bounce back quickly after a workout, this could be a game-changer.
Cardiovascular Health Support
By promoting vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels), L-citrulline can improve blood circulation. This can have positive effects on blood pressure and overall cardiovascular function, contributing to a healthier heart.
Other Potential Benefits
Some research suggests L-citrulline may have antioxidant properties. While more studies are needed, this hints at even more potential health benefits beyond athletic performance and cardiovascular support. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement.
How to Use Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder
The suggested dose is one scoop (3 grams) per day. Here’s how to get the most out of it:
- Mix it up: Add one scoop to eight ounces of water or your favorite beverage.
- Time it right: For best results, similar to when to take cordyceps for energy and performance, take it before your workout to boost performance.
- Consider your needs: The amount you need may vary based on how active you are. Athletes might need a larger dose than older adults with a more sedentary lifestyle. Talk to your doctor to figure out what’s right for you.
Potential Side Effects and Warnings
Like most supplements, Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder is generally considered safe, but it’s always smart to be aware of potential side effects and interactions.
Common Side Effects
Some people might experience mild gastrointestinal issues, like bloating or stomach upset.
Precautions and Contraindications
- Talk to your doctor before taking L-Citrulline if you’re pregnant or nursing.
- If you’re already taking medication or have existing health problems, get medical advice first.
- Don’t take L-Citrulline with vasodilating medications.
Interactions with Medications
L-Citrulline can interact with blood pressure medications and other medications that widen blood vessels (vasodilators). If you take medicine to lower your blood pressure, make sure to talk with your doctor before taking this supplement.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
It’s especially important to consult a healthcare professional if you have pre-existing health conditions or are currently taking prescription medications. They can help you determine if L-Citrulline is right for you and safe to use with your current health plan.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder generally receives positive feedback online. Most customers cite improvements in workout performance and decreased muscle soreness after exercise.
One of the product’s biggest selling points, according to reviewers, is how easily it dissolves in water. Many also note that it’s virtually flavorless, making it easy to add to smoothies or pre-workout drinks without altering the taste.
However, some users report that they didn’t experience noticeable benefits, and it’s important to remember that individual results can vary. As with any supplement, reading reviews can be helpful, but it’s best to consult with your doctor before adding L-Citrulline to your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does L-citrulline increase testosterone?
The research on L-citrulline and testosterone is somewhat limited and inconclusive, similar to the research surrounding natural testosterone boosters and their effect on sperm. Some studies suggest that L-citrulline may indirectly support healthy testosterone levels by improving overall blood flow and exercise performance, but it’s not considered a direct testosterone booster. More research is needed in this area.
What is the most absorbable form of citrulline?
L-citrulline DL-malate is often cited as the most absorbable form of citrulline. The malate helps stabilize the citrulline and may enhance its bioavailability, meaning more of it is absorbed into the bloodstream.
What four drinks will directly boost nitric oxide?
While no single drink can directly and dramatically boost nitric oxide, certain drinks can support nitric oxide production. These include beetroot juice (a popular choice), pomegranate juice, green leafy vegetable juice (like spinach or kale), and drinks containing L-arginine (though L-citrulline is often considered a better precursor).
What are the best times to take citrulline?
The best time to take citrulline depends on your goals. For exercise performance, taking it 30-60 minutes before your workout is generally recommended. For overall cardiovascular health or other potential benefits, you can take it at any time of day, consistently.
Which citrulline is best for ED?
While L-citrulline may help with erectile dysfunction (ED) by improving blood flow, L-citrulline DL-malate is often preferred. The malate component may provide additional benefits for energy production, potentially enhancing the effects of citrulline on blood flow and sexual function. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on ED treatment.
To conclude
Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder is designed to give you an extra boost in nitric oxide production, muscle protein synthesis, and vascular health. Sounds pretty good, right?
Before you rush out to buy a container, remember that you should always talk with your healthcare provider before adding supplements to your diet, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.
L-Citrulline is one of many compounds that can support your health and athletic performance. Doctor’s Best L-Citrulline Powder may be a worthwhile addition to your exercise routine and healthy lifestyle, but it’s important to remember that supplements are most effective when they’re part of a bigger picture that includes:
- a nutritious diet
- enough sleep
- stress management
- regular exercise