The Robust Benefits of Glutamine (and why you should try it)
Your body naturally produces an amino acid that is capable of healing organs, muscle tissue, and improving their function.
Imagine if this healing was enhanced by consuming it from natural sources? Would you try it?
This is L-Glutamine, an essential amino acid your body needs. This particular amino acid is tossed around the fitness industry for its benefits in helping avoid the pain of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). But there’s much more to this readily available gem.
Here are three benefits of Glutamine, applicable to pro athletes or those trimming a few pounds.
Aids in Protein Synthesis
Protein synthesis is a biological process where amino acids align to create proteins. This process promotes healthy intestines capable of absorbing nutrients, a high-functioning brain, muscle growth, increased athletic performance, and more. Because these are the building blocks of life, this process should be supported.
Helps Maintain Muscle Cell Volume and Hydration
Hydrated muscles are healthy muscles and Glutamine allows muscles to absorb water and nutrients for optimal performance.
Hydrated muscles are healthy muscles and Glutamine allows muscles to absorb water and nutrients for optimal performance.
After a heavy weight lifting session, your muscles are under stress and dehydrated. Glutamine helps rehydrate and repair. Glutamine is also a neurotransmitter; it improves cell hydration in the brain which can help improve memory, focus, and concentration.
Heals your Gut, Boosts your Immune System
Glutamine has a reputation for healing the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. (Your GI tract starts at your mouth and ends with your colon.)
That is a lot of internal real estate that Glutamine can help heal! If you suffer from issues like ulcers, IBS, Leaky Gut Syndrome, thyroid issues, food intolerances, skin issues, alcohol and sugar cravings, yeast overgrowth and more, there is a chance that your GI tract is in some need of some TLC. Start a regimen with Glutamine and you may reap serious health benefits.
Sources and Dosage for Glutamine
Glutamine is found in both animal proteins and plant proteins and should be consumed daily.
Animal | Plant-Based |
Grass-fed Beef | Cabbage |
Bone Broth | Asparagus |
Wild Caught Fish | Spirulina |
Turkey | Broccoli |
Organ meats | Nuts |
Supplement-form offers two different options: L-Glutamine and Alanyl-L-Glutamine. L-Glutamine can be taken with food for easy absorption while Alanyl-L-Glutamine is attached to another amino acid in supplement form.
Adults and athletes should take 2-5 grams at a time, not exceeding 10 grams a day. If you plan on taking Glutamine long term, add a serving of B12 to your regimen to help avoid any glutamine build up in the body.
Glutamine can be beneficial to weight-lifters, long distance runners, and those just starting their fitness journey. Try adding it to your supplement routine this year.
Always consult a physician before altering your supplement routine.
Lauren Rae
Lauren Rae is a professional fitness talent, speaker, writer and consultant in Dallas, Texas. As a fitness chef she creates unique recipes with elevated ingredients that promote a lean physique, wellness and balance within the body. Lauren Rae is also a trained vocalist and has been featured in the music, food and fitness industries on the Food Network and in publications like Ironman and TRAIN Magazine.