L Glutamine

What’s up with glutamine?  You can see a lot of supplements in the market that tout the various benefits of glutamine and why it is needed in the body.  Well, it is an amino acid that your body has in abundance.  In fact, it comprises over 60% of your skeletal muscles and blood. It is one of the most important amino acids as this form part of the building blocks for protein.  It also aids in normal digestion and brain function.  It is particularly helpful in getting rid of ammonia and at the same time promote the production of vital amino acids and glutathione.  The immune system also uses glutamine as fuel as they produce antioxidants that the body needs to fight free-radicals.  Without it, some immune cells will not have the energy to function.  Glutamine is manufactured in the body but during times of great physical exertion or stress, the body’s need for it far exceeds the ability to produce it. 

Okay, so how does glutamine work in the body?  Let us list the ways…

Wounds and infections During times when you are wounded, suffering from burns or infections, or undergoing a surgical procedure, your body releases hormones into your bloodstream, including cortisol.  Cortisol uses up glutamine stores which in turn impairs the healing process.  Taking in supplements can rev up a weakened immune system, thus allowing the body to heal itself faster.  The substance also ensures that the right cell volume and hydration is maintained and this results in a faster recovery and healing time for burns and wounds. 

Obesity A conditionrelated with obesity is the constant need and craving to eat.  Glutamine addresses this problem by suppressing your appetite.  For those who also want to lose fat, glutamine helps in making sure that muscles are not deteriorated in the process.  

Body builders and athletes These have much to gain by taking in glutamine.  Because of strenuous work outs and physical activity (especially when these are prolonged), athletes and body builders have weakened immune systems.  They are thus more prone to infection and find it harder to recover from trauma and injuries.  Also, as the levels of glutamine are decreased, the body tries to make up for this by getting the glutamine from the muscles for the use of other body cells.  This is called catabolizing of the muscles.  Glutamine prevents catabolizing as it gives the body the glutamine that it needs.  

Cancer patients Those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation often suffer from glutamine deficiency, as well as malnourishment.  Under certain conditions, glutamine is recommended to increase depleted levels of glutamine.  

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative This inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be alleviated as glutamine helps to protect the mucosa, or the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, glutamine helps to ease problems related to IBD such as ulceration, inflammation and infection of the stomach as well as diarrhea.  Glutamine is also said to hasten the healing process of the intestinal cells. Yes, it can cure ulcers!  Some studies show a cure rate of over 90% in 4 weeks with glutamine supplementation.  This same function (protecting the intestinal linings) can also prevent peritonitis or the inflammation of the peritoneum. 

In addition, glutamine supports one’s mental well-being and promotes a healthy balance of acid and alkaline in the body. It also balances blood sugar and prevents food allergies.  Another great benefit is that it helps elevate the presence of the human growth hormone (HGH) – so those who aim to improve on their height should take note of this. 

So, how can you load up on glutamine?  A diet that is rich in proteins can provide you with adequate amounts of glutamine.  Your diet should then include foods such as meats (pork, beef and poultry), milk and other dairy products, vegetables such as cabbage, spinach and parsley (which should be eaten raw).   

You can also take glutamine supplements which you can get from the drugstore or health store.  It comes in capsule, liquid and powder form.  It is best taken cold, as heat tends to destroy amino acids.  Of course, the usual warning about asking your doctor about it (especially if you are pregnant or lactating) before taking it applies here.  It may react negatively to or counteract certain medications.  There are very few side effects to glutamine, as this occurs naturally in the body. However, you should practice moderation.  Only take the recommend daily dose.