What is the Difference Between L Citrulline and Citrulline Malate?

L-Citrulline and Citrulline Malate are both forms of the amino acid citrulline, which is known to boost nitric oxide production in the body and play a role in proper circulatory function. The main difference between the two is that Citrulline Malate is a combination of L-Citrulline with malic acid, which is believed to increase absorption rates and bioavailability.

Here are the key differences between L-Citrulline and Citrulline Malate:

Composition: L-Citrulline is the non-essential amino acid, while Citrulline Malate is a combination of L-Citrulline and malic acid.
Absorption and Bioavailability: Citrulline Malate is believed to have increased absorption rates and bioavailability compared to L-Citrulline due to the presence of malic acid.
Energy Production: Malic acid, which is part of Citrulline Malate, plays a role in energy production and has anti-fatigue effects.

Both L-Citrulline and Citrulline Malate can be beneficial for various health and performance outcomes, such as reducing muscle soreness, increasing growth hormone production, and improving aerobic and anaerobic endurance. However, Citrulline Malate has been shown to have a greater impact on performance and muscle pumps compared to L-Citrulline alone. The dosages for both forms are typically in the range of 2000-6000mg per day, ideally taken pre-workout.

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What is the Difference Between L Citrulline and Citrulline Malate?

Comparative Table: L Citrulline vs Citrulline Malate

The main difference between L-Citrulline and Citrulline Malate lies in the addition of malic acid to L-Citrulline, forming Citrulline Malate. Both are nitric oxide precursors and have similar functions, but they have some differences in terms of absorption and effects on exercise performance. Here is a table comparing the two:

Feature	L-Citrulline	Citrulline Malate
Definition	L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid found naturally in some fruits and produced endogenously in the body.	Citrulline Malate is a combination of L-Citrulline and malic acid, which may bring about additional benefits.
Absorption	Better absorbed on an empty stomach.	Better absorbed when taken with food.
Effects	Improves nitric oxide levels, leading to better blood flow, more energy, and better exercise performance.	Improves energy production, reduces lactic acid buildup, and may enhance exercise recovery.
Purity	L-Citrulline is the purest form, higher in citrulline content, and leads to the fastest, most noticeable benefits.	Citrulline Malate is bonded with malic acid, which may affect its purity.
Dosage	Typically requires a higher dose to achieve the same effects as Citrulline Malate.	Requires a relatively lower dose to achieve similar effects as L-Citrulline.

Both L-Citrulline and Citrulline Malate have their own unique mechanisms and can positively impact nitric oxide levels. However, the pure form of L-Citrulline is considered superior due to its higher citrulline content and faster, more noticeable benefits.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.