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Effects of Different Dietary Supplements on Swimming Performance: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Dongxiang Huang1,2, Xiaobing Wang1, Hideki Takagi3
1School of Physical Education, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan 512005, China.
Nutrients
|January 11, 2025
Summary
Nutritional supplements can enhance swimming performance. L-arginine improved 100m times, beta-alanine boosted blood lactate clearance, and creatine with sodium bicarbonate optimized blood pH.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Swimmers frequently use nutritional supplements.
- The efficacy of various supplements for enhancing swimming performance requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of different nutrition-based interventions on swimming performance.
- Utilized both direct and indirect comparison meta-analysis methods.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a systematic literature search across major scientific databases up to April 2024.
- Assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool.
- Employed a random-effect model to calculate standardized mean differences and confidence intervals.
Main Results:
- L-arginine significantly reduced 100m swimming time (SMD = -1.66).
- Beta-alanine was most effective for improving blood lactate levels (SUCRA = 80%).
- Creatine combined with sodium bicarbonate most effectively increased blood pH (SUCRA = 99.9%).
Conclusions:
- Dietary supplements show potential benefits for improving swimming performance.
- L-arginine is recommended for enhancing 100m sprint times.
- Beta-alanine and creatine with sodium bicarbonate are effective for specific physiological improvements.
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