Beta-alanine supplementation may support cognitive health in aging populations, says recent study

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A recent study published in the journal Nutrients¹ found that supplementation with beta-alanine may support cognitive health. In the double-blind, randomized controlled study, 100 older adults between the ages of 60 and 80 years were given either placebo or a branded beta-alanine supplement called CarnoSyn (two tablets, 600 mg per tablet), daily, for ten weeks. CarnoSyn is manufactured by Natural Alternatives International (Carlsbad, CA).

Subjects were tested for changes in cognitive function, mood, and physical performance. Testing occurred at baseline, at the study’s midpoint, and after the ten weeks. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal cognitive assessment (MOCA) and the Stroop pattern recognition test. Behavioral function was measured using the profile of mood states, geriatric depression scale (GDS), and geriatric anxiety scale (GAS) questionnaires, and physical function was assessed by measuring grip strength and timed sit-to-stand.

Results showed that subject who has below normal MOCA scores at baseline experienced significant improvements in MOCA scores at the study’s midpoint and at the end of the study, compared to placebo. Subjects consuming the beta-alanine supplement also saw significant decreases in GDS scores, while those taking placebo did not.

Reference

1. Ostfeld, I.; Ben-Zeev, T.; Zamir, A.; Levi, C.; Gepner, Y.; Springer, S.; Hoffman, J.R. Role of β-Alanine Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Mood, and Physical Function in Older Adults; Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2023, 15 (4): 923. DOI: 10.3390/nu15040923