What Is Glutamine? And What are Its Benefits for You?
The essential amino acid glutamine can be found throughout the body. It plays an important role in many bodily functions. Although it is naturally made by the body, glutamine can be found in certain foods like beans, milk products, poultry, fish and wheat.
Glutamine is gaining more attention due to its health benefits. Research has shown that glutamine can improve digestion, increase immunity, decrease muscle soreness following exercise and aid weight loss. It may also provide anxiety relief and depression prevention.
Here's what others have to say about glutamine
Glutaamine has been recognized by scientists for its potential health benefits. A study at the University of Michigan Medical School showed that glutamine supplementation can improve memory and cognitive function in healthy individuals. Researchers at the University of Toronto also reported that glutamine supplementation could improve quality of life for people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.
These studies have been cited in a growing media attention about glutamine's potential health benefits. WebMD and Healthline, two of the most popular health sites, published articles on potential benefits. They cited research as well as patient and doctor evidence.
The Glutamine Benefits
There are many health benefits that glutamine may have. These are just a few of the supposed benefits of glutamine.
- Improves digestion health - Glutamine can increase mucin production, which is a layer of protection that line the gastrointestinal tract. It can reduce Inflammation and help improve digestion.
- Glutamine boosts immunity - Glutamine is a fuel source for white blood cell growth and has been shown to increase the body's immune response.
- Glutaamine can reduce soreness in the muscles - Research has shown that glutamine could help decrease muscle pain after exercising.
- Aids weight loss – Glutamine can help curb cravings for unhealthy foods, which could lead to weight loss.
- Glutamine can provide relief from depression and anxiety. Glutamine was found to raise levels of GABA and serotonin, which are two major chemicals involved in mood regulation.
- Protects against some diseases - Glutamine is known to possess Antioxidant properties that can reduce oxidative stress, protect against certain diseases like cancer, and prevent heart disease.
Expert Opinions on Glutamine
Professionals and experts who study glutamine agree that this substance can have a positive impact on overall wellbeing and health. Andrew Weil is a well-known integrative medicine physician who believes glutamine may be good for your gut and immune system. To maximize the potential health benefits of glutamine, Dr. Andrew Weil recommends that you consume up to five grams daily.
Another noted doctor and author Dr. Joseph Mercola believes glutamine may be good for your Digestive Health as well as your immune system. To achieve maximum health, he recommends that you consume between 2 and 5 grams of glutamine per day.
Additionally, Mark Hyman (a prominent functional medicine physician) believes glutamine may be beneficial to those suffering from leaky stomach syndrome. To improve digestion health, Hyman recommends that you consume up to 10g of glutamine per day.
How do I get started with glutamine?
Before you start supplementation with glutamine, make sure to talk to your doctor. You can talk to your healthcare provider about the right dosage to meet your needs.
Supplements of glutamine are available online as well as in many health food shops. You can also buy it in capsule and powder form. Glutamin should be taken in a recommended daily intake of between 1 to 10 grams, depending upon your personal needs.
Glutamin can react with certain medications so it is important that you speak to your doctor before taking supplementation. To ensure correct dosing, you must follow all instructions.
Do you need to be aware of any side-effects?
While glutamine is considered safe by most people, high dosages can have side effects. Side effects include headaches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
It is also important to remember that glutamine shouldn't be consumed if there are any liver or kidney problems. It should never be taken in lieu of professional medical treatment.
Conclusion
The essential amino acid glutamine can be found throughout the body. It plays an important role in many bodily functions. Research has shown glutamine can improve digestion, increase immunity, decrease muscle soreness following exercise and aid weight loss. It may also provide anxiety relief and depression prevention.
Professionals and experts who have researched glutamine agree that this substance can have a positive impact on overall wellbeing and health. Before you start supplementation with glutamine, consult your doctor. To ensure correct dosing, you must also follow all instructions.
Glutaamine can be used to enhance overall wellbeing and health. However, it is worth noting that high levels of glutamine can have side effects and you should avoid taking them if your liver or kidney problems are present.