From a pathological evolution perspective, IVDD begins with the progressive destruction of the nucleus pulposus: the early stage is characterized by increased degradation of proteoglycans, leading to decreased water content in the NP and weakened biomechanical performance (reduced compressive load capacity), transferring more stress to the annulus fibrosus
A summary of the experimental methods and data quality, following the minimum reporting standards in MRS(Lin et al., 2021), is presented as Supplemental Table 1
The current evidence base primarily from animal studies and limited human trials suggests the following potential applications: Improved sleep quality increased proportion of slow-wave sleep, reduced sleep latency, fewer nocturnal cortisol spikes Cortisol normalisation reduced HPA hyperactivation, particularly relevant in high-stress or metabolically burdened patients Nociceptive effects several studies indicate DSIP modulates pain processing, with implications for patients whose poor sleep is pain-driven (3) Antioxidant activity may reduce oxidative stress markers, which are elevated in both sleep-deprived and insulin-resistant individuals Neuroendocrine support preliminary evidence of effects on LH, FSH, and somatostatin hormones that regulate testosterone, oestrogen, and growth hormone release Potential stress adaptation some data suggest DSIP may reduce the physiological stress response magnitude without blunting alertness It is important to be precise here
Potential benefits: Most powerful antioxidant Improves metabolic function Promotes healthy immune function Provides optimal environment for hormone production Combats stress, inflammation, toxins, and oxidative damage POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: Reactions: body aches, nausea, and occasionally headaches, mild diarrhea and chills without fever
Further research is needed to elucidate potential mechanisms related to L-citrulline supplementation in other aspects of performance. Source : Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition Published online 2023 Apr
