Effects of Oral Lactate Supplementation on Acid-Base Balance and Prolonged High-Intensity Interval Cycling...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Nutrition
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Lactate is a key metabolic intermediate and buffer, with potential ergogenic effects.
• Endurance athletes often seek supplements to improve performance and manage exercise-induced acidosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if lactate supplementation enhances exercise performance and acid-base balance in trained cyclists during simulated endurance cycling.
• To assess the impact of lactate on perceived exertion, heart rate, and gastrointestinal tolerance.

Main Methods:

• Sixteen trained male cyclists performed a simulated endurance cycling test after consuming lactate or placebo.
• Measurements included exercise performance, blood acid-base status (H+, HCO3-), heart rate, and perceived exertion.
• Gastrointestinal tolerance was also monitored.

Main Results:

• Lactate supplementation did not significantly improve exercise performance (p = 0.320).
• A significant reduction in Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) was observed (p = 0.012).
• Increases in Strong Ion Difference ([SID], p = 0.026) and bicarbonate ([HCO3-], p = 0.041) indicated improved acid-base balance, alongside gastrointestinal side effects.

Conclusions:

• Lactate supplementation does not improve cycling performance in trained athletes.
• The alkalizing effects may reduce perceived effort but do not enhance physiological capacity for performance.
• Potential gastrointestinal side effects should be considered with lactate supplementation.