Citrulline vs Citrulline Malate... What's the Difference?
If you’ve been navigating the complex world of pre-workout supplements, you’ve likely come across citrulline and citrulline malate. Both are touted for their ability to boost performance and enhance muscle recovery, but what sets them apart? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty and help you make an informed decision.
What is Citrulline?
Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid, which means your body can produce it naturally. It's named after watermelon (Citrullus vulgaris), from which it was first isolated. In the fitness realm, citrulline is lauded for its ability to increase nitric oxide levels in the body. This has a vasodilating effect, meaning it helps widen your blood vessels, leading to better blood flow and, subsequently, improved oxygen and nutrient delivery to your muscles during workouts.
And Then There’s Citrulline Malate
Citrulline malate combines citrulline with malic acid, a compound found in various fruits that’s involved in the creation of energy within your cells. The addition of malic acid is believed to enhance the production of energy, particularly during intense exercise, thus complementing the benefits of citrulline.
The Key Differences
The main difference between citrulline and citrulline malate lies in the malic acid component. While citrulline on its own primarily boosts nitric oxide production, citrulline malate, with its added malic acid, is supposed to provide a double whammy: enhanced blood flow and improved energy production. So, while citrulline is great for that pump, citrulline malate could be the key to both a robust pump and enduring energy levels throughout your workout.
Dosage Matters
Regardless of your choice, dosage plays a crucial role. The recommended dosage for citrulline for improving exercise performance is about 6-8 grams. For citrulline malate, you might need a bit more due to the inclusion of malic acid, typically around 8 grams.
Bottom Line
Both citrulline and citrulline malate have their place in the world of fitness supplements. By understanding their differences and how they can benefit your workout regimen, you can make a more informed choice that aligns with your fitness goals. Always remember, the best pre-workout is one that meets your specific needs and enhances your overall health and performance.
Which Pre-Workouts Contain Citrulline Malate?
Two of the most popular pre-workouts that contain Citrulline Malate, instead of just Citrulline, are Transparent Labs' BULK and Stetic Fitness' Snake Venom. Both have a whopping 8g of Citrulline Malate and would be a great choice for any gym-goer.