Succinate supplements lack reliable evidence for better exercise performance
A review found mixed results, widespread study limitations, and frequent use of blended supplements. The study judged least vulnerable to bias reported no performance benefit.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The review found insufficient reliable evidence that succinate supplementation improves exercise performance. Some studies reported gains, but most were judged at high risk of bias and most tested ingredient blends. The study rated at low risk of bias found no performance benefit. Recovery-specific results were not summarized in the abstract.
Most interventions used ingredient blends, so effects cannot be attributed confidently to succinate alone. Differences between studies and methodological weaknesses prevented statistical pooling. This summary is based on the abstract.
Performance and laboratory measures
Some studies assessed exercise outcomes, including oxygen uptake and work completed. Others reported blood or acid-base changes without validated performance tests. Those physiological findings cannot be assumed to show that participants performed better.
How to read the mixed results
The study considered least vulnerable to bias found no performance benefit, while other reports were more favorable. That contrast weakens confidence in a benefit, but the null finding does not establish that an effect is impossible.
The original publication
The Ergogenic Potential of Succinic Acid in Exercise Performance and Post-Exercise Recovery: A Systematic Review.
Jędrejko K, Catlin O, Jędrejko M et al.
Nutrients · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41830040
- Record checked
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