Tyrosine Ingestion and Its Effects on Cognitive and Physical Performance in the Heat
Coull N, et al.
Published in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
Methodology
Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial of acute tyrosine ingestion before exercise in hot conditions, measuring time to exhaustion, thermoregulatory variables and cognitive task performance.
Key Findings
In 21 participants exercising in the heat, acute tyrosine ingestion did not improve endurance capacity or physical performance, and effects on cognitive performance during heat stress were minimal and inconsistent with earlier positive reports.
Conclusions
Acute tyrosine supplementation did not enhance physical or cognitive performance during exercise in the heat, challenging its use as a heat-stress ergogenic aid.
Limitations
Small crossover sample of trained participants, single acute dose and one heat protocol, laboratory rather than field conditions, and cognitive tasks may lack sensitivity to modest catecholamine-related changes.
Supplements Studied
Despite marked elevations in serum TYR concentration, ingestion of TYR did not influence cognitive function or physical performance during exercise heat stress.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Academic institutional funding
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.