What is it?

Glutamine is the most prevalent amino acid in the bloodstream and because human cells readily synthesize it, is usually considered a non-essential amino acid. During catabolic stress, intracellular Glutamine levels can drop and supplementation may become necessary. Therefore, Glutamine has been re-classified as a conditionally essential amino acid. Glutamine can be found in foods such as beans, meats, fish, poultry and milk.

Research demonstrates supplementing with Glutamine may be especially beneficial to athletes and persons undergoing stress or trauma. At several grams per day, glutamine has been shown to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Evidence suggests potential for Glutamine as a sports nutrition supplement, but further research is warranted.

Who supplements with Glutamine?

In recent years, Glutamine has become a staple in diets for athletes and bodybuilders and is often supplemented in protein powders. Many nutrition experts speculate that Glutamine may help athletes by aiding muscle tissue growth and protecting the body from overtraining.

Considerations

Because Glutamine is natural occurring in the body, there have been few side effects reported. However, there have been reports of upset stomach when ingesting in Glutamine in very large amounts.