Arginine
Information About Arginine
Arginine is a non-essential, but very important, amino acid. The body is normally able to synthesize arginine if necessary due to an insufficient diet. However, a diet rich in meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and/or nuts should provide enough arginine for normal function.
Arginine helps keep the heart healthy, helps heal wounds,and aids in the production of insulin and glucagon. If necessary, the body can break down arginine for use as a fuel. In high doses, arginine may stimulate the secretion of growth hormone. Arginine, along with glycine and methionine, is also used to produce creatine.
Deficiencies of arginine may occur in children with certain genetic disorders, or in cases of trauma, surgery, sepsis,or serious burns. These individuals may receive arginine as part of medically prescribed therapy during recovery.
Health Benefits of Arginine
Most of the health benefits of arginine are due to its role nitric oxide (NO) production, which dilates bloods vessels and improves blood flow.
Arginine may specifically benefit cardiovascular health by increasing NO and enhancing circulation throughout the body. Arginine may also help improve symptoms of angina which are caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
Research shows that arginine may promote wound repair, may help decrease the severity or incidence of migraine headaches, and may help improve some types of erectile dysfunction.
More conclusive research is necessary to determine how arginine helps improve exercise performance and increase of lean muscle mass. Arginine nevertheless remains a very popular supplement among bodybuilders and strength athletes.
Usage Indications
Use arginine products as directed. See Cautions below.
- Side effects: May occur with high doses of 15 grams or more, and include nausea, abdominal cramping and diarrhea. Sensitive individuals may experience side effects at lower doses.
- Cautions: Do not use arginine supplements if you suffer from argininemia. Consult your physician before using arginine if you have any medical conditions, or are taking any of the following medications: nitroglycerin, Viagra, cyclosporine, ibuprofen, organic nitrates, or the herbal supplement yohimbe. High doses of arginine may cause herpes or cold sore outbreaks in prone individuals.
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