Amino acid supplementation affects hematological and biochemical parameters in elite rugby players

Individual amino acid supplementation affects various types of athletic per formance. However, little information on combinations of amino acids is cur rently available. This study evaluated an amino acid mixture containing L-l eucine, L-isoleucine, L-valine, L-arginine, and L-glutamine to 3.6 g of tot al amino acids per dose. Twenty-three rugby players were given 3.6 g, twice , daily of the amino acid mixture for 90 days (June-August 1994) and blood samples were collected for analyses in September 1993, March 1994, Septembe r 1994, and September 1995. After 90 days of supplementation, almost all of the athletes reported improvement in vigor and earlier recovery from fatig ue. Significant increases (P <0.05) were observed in hemoglobin, RBC count, hematocrit, and serum iron by amino acid supplementation. Significant incr eases (P <0.05) were also noted in total cholesterol and low-density lipopr otein along with decreased (P <0.05) alkaline phosphatase. All values rever ted to original levels when measured after one year of continued training w ithout supplementation.