Why Does Beta-Alanine Make You Itch?
As you may know, beta-alanine is an ingredient that can be found in many pre-workout supplements and a lot of people use it. The common phenomenon is known as “beta-alanine” itch has been reported by many people who have taken supplements containing this ingredient. Some people describe this as an itching sensation that spreads across their shoulders, neck, and arms. The feelings start about 15 minutes after you take the supplement but can last for half an hour or so before going away on their own.
You may ask: why does beta-alanine make me itch? Should I be worried about this? Let’s take a look at the science behind this condition.
Beta-alanine is a natural supplement that can be found in many pre-workout supplements, and it’s used to enhance your endurance. When you exercise, your body produces lactic acid which builds up and your muscles feel fatigued or slightly sore. This amino acid can stop that process by combining with histidine to form Carnosine; it then slows down the production of this compound so we have more time before feeling training burn. But it also results in beta-alanine itch, which is a hassle.
Beta-alanine is a chemical that can trigger the nerves in your skin, making you feel like something’s crawling or scratching. The skin is fooled into thinking there’s something happening, but really nothing at all. It feels like you’re getting an itching sensation because of this brain phenomenon called “paresthesia.” Different people react to different ingredients in workout supplements and some may experience this sensation at varying levels.
Is Beta-Alanine Itch dangerous?
The National Institute of Health has confirmed that there are no dangers to beta-alanine. This problem isn’t a big deal and it won’t cause any other major problems. The itching sensation you feel when your skin itches are exactly what causes similar feelings of an allergic reaction or hives. The same goes for niacin, which can cause such a bothersome itch in some people’s cases.
Can You Prevent Beta-Alanine Itch?
Although it cannot be avoided entirely, there are ways to reduce the uncomfortable itching that often follows a workout. You can reduce your exposure to beta-alanine by limiting the number of supplements you take in one session. There are ways to reduce the amount of beta-alanine you consume in one session without losing its benefits.
There are two main options you can try. Firstly, taking several smaller doses of beta-alanine throughout the day. You can get the same level of Carnosine in your body without feeling too itchy. An alternative way is to try using a sustained-release beta-alanine supplement instead of pre-workout supplementation. These products are a great way to gradually release beta-alanine into your body over time so there aren’t any particularly high spikes during the day.
Is it safe to take Beta-Alanine?
It is safe. That’s right, the beta-alanine itch is not going to cause any other issues. Plus athletes can experience significant benefits from taking this supplement. Beta-alanine is safe for most people to take, but you should know that it could cause unpleasant side effects in some individuals.
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