Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Citrulline silicate is a compound that combines the amino acid L-citrulline with silicate, and it is marketed as an ingredient in athletic and exercise supplements. The scientific rationale for its inclusion primarily relates to the known effects of L-citrulline. L-citrulline is a precursor to L-arginine, which in turn is a precursor to nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that can promote vasodilation and enhance blood flow. Increased NO levels have been associated with improved exercise performance, reduced fatigue, and enhanced recovery in several studies involving L-citrulline or citrulline malate.

However, direct research on citrulline silicate itself is limited. A few small studies have examined its potential to increase plasma citrulline and nitrite/nitrate levels, suggestive of enhanced NO production. These studies indicate that citrulline silicate may be effective at raising plasma citrulline more efficiently than L-citrulline alone, possibly due to improved solubility or absorption. A handful of pilot studies and abstracts have reported that supplementation with citrulline silicate can lead to modest improvements in exercise performance, such as increased repetitions to failure or reduced perception of fatigue, but these are not large-scale or long-term trials.

Overall, while the theoretical basis and early evidence are promising, the quantity and quality of clinical data specifically on citrulline silicate are still limited. Most of the support comes from extrapolation of L-citrulline research rather than robust data on the silicate form. Thus, it receives a moderate evidence rating.

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