L-Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid (building blocks of protein) in the body. This free semi-essential amino acid is usually found in the muscles and serves many bodily functions. In normal situations, the body can produce the adequate amounts of L-glutamine needed for normal functioning. However, there are special situations when the body needs extra L-glutamine like in infections and trauma. In these instances, the body undergoes elevated metabolic stress and in return, there is an increased demand from L-glutamine. In the medical field, L-glutamine supplements are also the most prescribed by physicians it promotes a more active brain, healthier intestines, stronger immune system, and enhanced energy levels.
In the body, L-glutamine concentrations are largely in the brain, skeletal muscles, liver, kidneys, lungs, and intestinal linings. Deficiency of L-glutamine in these organs can cause health problems. In cases of L-glutamine deficiency, L-glutamine can be obtained from the diet. Dietary sources of L-glutamine include brussel sprouts, kale, carrots, celery, papaya, spinach, parsley, beef, poultry, dairy products, and beans. Another good source of additional L-glutamine are L-glutamine supplements manufactured in capsules and pills sold in drug stores and even in the internet. In most cases, people prefer these L-glutamine supplements to achieve their desired health benefits.
L-Glutamine Benefits
- L-glutamine enhances total brain function as it supplies the brain with the energy it needs.
- L-glutamine improves cognitive abilities like memory, stabilizes mood, and helps in keeping mental alertness.
- L-glutamine helps in the prevention of common infections by strengthening the immune system.
- L-glutamine promotes muscle health and may help in preventing muscle wasting in cases where a patient has been on prolonged bed rest.
- L-glutamine promotes growth increasing internal growth hormone levels.
- L-glutamine has the ability of increasing protein and glycogen synthesis which are very critical in the creation of muscle mass.
- L-glutamine helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels and in decreasing alcohol cravings.
- The small intestine consumes L-glutamine in large amounts to keep its proper function. It helps in increasing the absorptive capacity and growth of the intestinal tract. Also, the cells in the digestive tract use L-glutamine as their main fuel source for metabolism.
- L-glutamine aids in faster wound healing as it supplies the connective tissues with protein and energy.
- L-glutamine helps in the synthesis of glutathione, an antioxidant in the liver. Antioxidants are known protectors of the body from free radicals that produces the signs of aging.
L-Glutamine Side Effects
Prescribed supplemental intake of L-glutamine is 4,000-5,000 mg divided in three doses per day. Increased intake of L-glutamine demonstrates no toxicity. In fact, elevated L-glutamine levels can decrease the body’s ammonia levels rather than increase it. However, those with kidney and liver failure are not advised to take L-glutamine supplements.
