Background

• Pyruvate is a three-carbon organic acid (alpha-ketocarboxylic acid) that is formed in the body during glycolysis, a metabolic process that converts glucose to pyruvate.
• Pyruvate supplementation is commonly used for weight and fat loss. In general, the marketing of pyruvate for these purposes is based on studies using a combination of pyruvate and dihydroxyacetone. While several clinical trials do support the use of pyruvate for this purpose, results are mixed overall. Although pyruvate is commonly used for exercise performance improvement, this use is not supported by scientific evidence.
• There is inconclusive evidence regarding the use of pyruvate for alcoholic liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, high cholesterol, and hyperkeratotic skin conditions. Further research is also needed to assess the effects of pyruvate in combination with cardioplegic solution for protecting heart muscle during surgery.

References

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