L-Citrulline vs Vitamin C (Liposomal)

Mechanism

L-Citrulline is converted to L-arginine in the kidneys via argininosuccinate synthase and argininosuccinate lyase (bypassing hepatic first-pass metabolism that degrades oral L-arginine). L-arginine is then the substrate for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), producing nitric oxide (NO). NO activates soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), increasing cGMP, causing vascular smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. Citrulline also participates in the urea cycle (ammonia detoxification), and supplementation increases plasma arginine more effectively than arginine supplementation itself due to bypass of intestinal and hepatic arginase.

Standard Dosing

3-6g L-citrulline daily or 6-8g citrulline malate

Timing

30-60 minutes pre-workout for exercise performance. For blood pressure: split AM/PM doses. Powder form in water.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Mild GI discomfort
• Bloating
• Headache (vasodilation)
• Generally very well-tolerated even at high doses

Contraindications

• Concurrent nitroglycerin/nitrate therapy
• Severe hypotension
• Urea cycle disorders (citrullinemia)

Best Stacking Partners

Mechanism

Ascorbic acid is an essential electron donor and cofactor for numerous enzymatic reactions. It is required for collagen synthesis (prolyl and lysyl hydroxylases), carnitine biosynthesis, catecholamine synthesis (dopamine beta-hydroxylase), and alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases including HIF-prolyl hydroxylases and TET methylcytosine dioxygenases (epigenetic regulation). It regenerates oxidized vitamin E, supports immune function via neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and lymphocyte proliferation. Liposomal delivery bypasses SVCT1/2 transporter saturation, achieving plasma levels closer to IV administration.

Standard Dosing

1000-2000mg liposomal vitamin C daily

Timing

Divided doses throughout the day (every 4-6 hours) for optimal plasma levels. Away from high-dose minerals.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Diarrhea/GI upset at high non-liposomal doses (bowel tolerance)
• Kidney stone risk (oxalate pathway)
• False blood sugar readings on glucometers
• Dental erosion (chewable forms)

Contraindications

• Hemochromatosis (enhances iron absorption)
• G6PD deficiency (high-dose IV can cause hemolytic anemia)
• History of calcium oxalate kidney stones (may increase oxalate at high oral doses)
• Renal insufficiency (accumulation risk)

Best Stacking Partners