The effect of L-arginine supplementation on maximal oxygen uptake: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: The efficacy and safety of L-arginine supplements and their effect on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) remained unclear. This systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of L-arginine supplementation (LAS) on VO2 max in healthy people. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, ProQuest, and Ovid to identify all relevant literature investigating the effect of LAS on VO2 max. This meta-analysis was conducted via a random-effects model for the best estimation of desired outcomes and studies that meet the inclusion criteria were considered for the final analysis. Results: The results of 11 randomized clinical trials indicated that LAS increased VO2 max compared to the control group. There was no significant heterogeneity in this meta-analysis. Subgroup analysis detected that arginine in the form of LAS significantly increased VO2 max compared to the other forms (weighted mean difference = 0.11 L min−1, I2 = 0.0%, p for heterogeneity = 0.485). Conclusions: This meta-analysis indicated that supplementation with L-arginine could increase VO2 max in healthy people. Further studies are warranted to confirm this finding and to identify the underlying mechanisms.