The benefits of Glutamine.

Glutamine, or L-Glutamine, is the most abundant and most needed amino acid in the body during stress.  Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and can be either non-essential, meaning that the body can create its own, or essential, meaning that we must obtain them from food or supplements.  Glutamine is considered to be a conditionally essential amino acid because under stressful situations such as injury, illness, surgery, chemotherapy, infection, or even very intense exercise, the body is unable to keep up with the increased demand, and requires supplementation. Muscle tissue has a very high percentage of glutamine, so it is very important for the preservation of muscle mass. Body builders and endurance athletes sometimes supplement with glutamine to boost their immune function after very strenuous events, and also to promote muscle health.

Glutamine is the preferred fuel of the cells of the intestinal lining and supports the integrity of the barrier between the internal organs and the “outside world”.  A healthy intestinal mucosa also is important for immune function, and helps to absorb nutrients from our food.  It also helps with oxidative stress, serving as a precursor to glutathione, a primary antioxidant in the body.

There is no known toxicity of even high doses of glutamine and lower doses have been documented as very safe. Glutamine should not be used in individuals with liver disease, mania, seizure disorders, or in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should also be taken carefully by individuals who are sensitive to the food additive MSG, as glutamine is converted to glutamate in the body.  Always check with your healthcare professional before starting this, or any other new supplement to be sure that it is right for you.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.