What is beta-alanine?

Beta alanine is a slightly different form of a non-essential amino acid that has been proven to increase levels of carnosine in the blood. Carnosine decreases levels of lactic acid, which is produced when you exercise at high intensities. By increasing carnosine, you can delay muscle fatigue and be able to do more high-intensity exercise before fatigue sets in.

Great answer Mark. Can you explain why it has the side effect that was experienced in another recent question?

Hi Tim

That's a good question but last time I looked, no one had worked out why beta alanine has this effect. I believe the best guess is that it has some kind of effect on the nerves in the skin.

Hi Tim

That's a good question but last time I looked, no one had worked out why beta alanine has this effect. I believe the best guess is that it has some kind of effect on the nerves in the skin.

Tim, beta alanine users I know have learned to love the tingling. They say "I know it's working and I have the good stuff." I'm not sure how this helps but I always laugh when they say it...
I would suppose that except for caffeine and ephedra, it is the only legal supplement that gives almost immediate feedback.