Glutamine is an amino acid (building blocks of protein) found in the muscles of the body. In fact, it is the most abundant free amino acid.
Technically, glutamine is classified as a semi-essential amino acid, which means that under normal circumstances the body can manufacture it on its own to meet the physiological demands.
However, there are times that glutamine becomes an essential amino acid due to metabolic stress situations like trauma (including surgical trauma), cancer, burns, and sepsis. Under such conditions, it is important that there is an adequate intake of glutamine to meet the increased demand created by these situations.
With that being said, let’s move to more l glutamine facts and L- glutamine benefits.
L Glutamine Facts: Health Benefits of L Glutamine
General Info
Serves as a source of fuel for cells lining the intestines
It's involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid.
Some experts point out that glutamine can pass through the protective blood-brain barrier and, because of this, it is known as brain fuel.
Aids in protecting the body from ammonia toxicity.
Appears to be necessary for normal brain function.
Essential for maintaining amino acid balance in the body during times of severe stress.
It's used by white blood cells and contributes to normal immune-system function.
L Glutamine Facts: Health Benefits of L Glutamine
General Health Benefits
Promotes the maintenance of a healthy digestive tract.
May promote mental alertness and improve mood and memory.
May boost immune function and fight infection.
May decrease sugar cravings and the desire for alcohol.
Helps to prevent the kind of muscle loss (wasting) that can accompany prolonged bed rest or illnesses such as cancer and AIDS who may be incapable of manufacturing their own supply of glutamine. Side Note: It's important to note that stress an injury (including surgical trauma) cause the muscles to release glutamine into the bloodstream. In fact, some experts state that during the time of stress as much as one third of glutamine present in the muscles may be released. As a result, stress and/or illness can lead to the loss of skeletal muscle if not enough glutamine is available. Therefore, one of the benefits of L glutamine is to ensure enough of it is available in the body to help prevent muscle loss (wasting).
The Role of L Glutamine Supplements
L glutamine as a supplement may be helpful for the following:
Gastro-intestinal disorders
Depression
Irritability
Withdrawal support for alcoholics
Protection of liver tissue against damage from cancer chemotherapy and drugs such as acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Prevent the kind of muscle loss (wasting) that can accompany prolonged bed rest or illnesses such as cancer and AIDS
Athletes (may help protect the immune system from overtraining stress)
Glutamine Food Sources
Glutamine-rich foods include: beef, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, raw parsley, raw spinach as well as soybeans and other legumes.
Are there any side effects and precautions?
The Benefits of L Glutamine
Glutamine supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines. At the time of this writing, the most commonly experienced side effects while taking glutamine include: constipation and bloating.
However, anyone with cirrhosis of the liver, kidney conditions, Reye’s syndrome, or any type of disorder that can result in an accumulation of ammonia in the blood are advised to avoid supplemental glutamine.
In addition, because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications it is crucial that you always speak to a knowledgeable healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplements, including glutamine. This advice is also recommended for anyone suffering from a health condition.
Pregnant and nursing women should only take an amino acid such as glutamine after consulting your physician.
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