Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 1

Aspartic acid is an amino acid that has attracted interest in the bodybuilding community, particularly in the form of its derivative, D-aspartic acid (DAA). The rationale for its use is primarily based on the hypothesis that DAA can increase the body’s production of testosterone, a hormone closely linked to muscle growth and strength gains. Several early studies, including a 2009 paper published in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, suggested that DAA supplementation could transiently boost testosterone levels in men. However, subsequent and larger studies, such as those published in Nutritional Research (2015) and Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2013), have largely failed to demonstrate significant or consistent benefits of DAA supplementation for increasing testosterone or improving muscle mass and strength in resistance-trained men.

Traditional use of aspartic acid specifically for bodybuilding is not well-documented; its application is a recent trend based on mechanistic speculation rather than long-standing practice. Current scientific evidence does not strongly support the efficacy of aspartic acid (or DAA) supplements for enhancing muscle growth or performance in athletes. At best, the evidence is weak, with little to no effect observed in well-controlled human studies. Therefore, while some bodybuilders may use aspartic acid based on early findings or anecdotal reports, its use is not robustly supported by scientific data.

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Nature's Sunshine Free Amino Acids