Beta-alanine is a non-essential beta amino-acid. Together with the help of L-histidine, Beta-alanine facilitates the synthesis of muscle carnosine concentration which acts as a lactic acid buffer and delays the onset of muscle fatigue, loss of power, and time to failure. Studies have shown elevated muscle carnosine levels can fuel endurance, optimize recovery, build muscle strength, and enhance peak performance.

Despite the performance-enhancing benefits, beta-alanine produces an odd, non-harmful effect known as paresthesia, which causes a tingling and itchy sensation.

Why Does Beta-Alanine Make You Itch

The direct mechanism or etiology of why beta-alanine creates paresthesia remains somewhat unclear, researchers believe that beta-alanine activates sensory neurons that terminate in the skin, leading to topical tingling and itchiness [R].