Efeitos da suplementação de nitrato no desempenho em treinos intervalados: uma revisão da literatura

Abstract

Introduction: Nitrate supplementation has been extensively investigated for its ergogenic potential, especially its ability to increase nitric oxide bioavailability, promoting muscle perfusion and reducing the energy cost of exercise. This effect has sparked interest in modalities that require repeated high-intensity efforts, such as interval training, where optimizing oxygenation and metabolic efficiency can positively influence performance. Objective: to analyze the evidence in the literature on the effects of nitrate supplementation on physical performance during interval training. Materials and methods: integrative literature review using the PubMed database, using descriptors related to nitrate supplementation and interval training. Clinical studies with adults, published between 2015 and 2025, in English and Portuguese with full text available, were included. Results: The analyzed studies reported that nitrate supplementation promoted an increase in VO₂max, improved muscle oxygenation, and greater maximum power, in addition to helping maintain average power during repeated sprints. Benefits were also observed in muscle recovery and performance in interval exercises. Furthermore, an increase in plasma nitrate and nitrite concentrations was verified, confirming their effective conversion to nitric oxide. Only mild gastrointestinal discomfort was reported. Conclusion: Nitrate supplementation demonstrated ergogenic potential in interval training, favoring performance and recovery. However, the methodological heterogeneity and the limited number of studies with women and elite athletes indicate the need for further investigations to consolidate practical recommendations.