Aimes, IA—Adenosine-5’-triphosphate (ATP) is key for cellular energy storage, so key that when cells don’t have enough ATP inside them, extracellular ATP can cross into cells to boost energy. Can athletes take advantage of this system? Yes, according to new research published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition by researchers from Iowa State University and Metabolic Technologies, Inc.

Eight young men and eight young women participated in a study in which they were given 400 mg/day of supplemental ATP (Peak ATP from TSI, Inc. of Missoula, MT, in two doses) or a placebo for two weeks. The group fasted overnight, and then participated in strength and fatigue testing that included measurements with a leg dynamometer. A crossover occurred after a one-week washout period.

Overall, supplementing with ATP increased low peak torque and decreased torque fatigue, especially during the last of the three sets. Nonetheless, these improvements didn’t lead to additional leg power or work performed. State the researchers, “These observations lead us to speculate that supplemental ATP may provide cumulative benefits in strenuous, repetitive and exhaustive exercise activities, which could lead to improved strength and lean body mass gains.”

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, December 2012