Every ambitious athlete knows that L-glutamine is the most important amino acid for muscles, a nitrogen transporter and immune stimulant. L-glutamine is a non-essential amino acid for humans and acts as a universal NH2 donor in the metabolism. Glutamine makes up the majority of the free amino acids in blood plasma (around 60%) and is otherwise peptide-bound.

Our experts Markus and Roman explain why GLUTAMINE is the safe alternative to shakes, why it is perfect for athletes with food intolerances and how it can help you reach your full potential as a strength and competitive athlete.

Functions in the body

• Amino acid pool:It provides a sufficient amount of non-essential amino acids (for protein synthesis).
• Amino sugars (i.e. glycos-aminoglycan biosynthesis): It increases structural stability (and decreases wasting) of muscle and connective tissue.
• Metabolic fuel: It increases the capacity of muscle work.
• Ammonia destruction: It prevents toxic effects of high ammonia levels.
• Glucose/glycogen synthesis: Increases energy reserves and thus athletic performance.
• Nucleic acid production: It increases DNA and RNA biosynthesis - crucial for fast-growing cells such as lymphocytes.
• Glutathione supplier: It increases antioxidant protection against oxidative destruction by glutathione peroxidase. Also increases the detoxification of harmful chemicals by the enzyme glutathione S-transferase.
• Nitrogen transport: It allows fine-tuning of metabolism, which determines which fuel is burned.
• GABA precursor: By reducing stimulating neurotransmitters, it induces a calming response.
• Urea synthesis: It prevents the accumulation of ammonia and thus reduces the neuromuscular damage caused by ammonia.
• It strengthens the immune system
• It has an indirect muscle-building effect (anabolic)
• It has a muscle-sparing effect (anti-catabolic)
• Increases the ability to regenerate during sleep

How can I take L-glutamine?

In a healthy state, the body can produce L-glutamine itself. We also consume around 5 to 10 grams of L-glutamine daily from certain foods, such as quark, yogurt, soybeans, parmesan or mung beans. However, the body's own production, as well as the intake through diet, is not always sufficient. Intensive sport, operations, infections or stress can deplete a particularly large amount of these amino acids.

A pronounced glutamine deficiency can always be detected, especially during hypercataemic or metabolic disease states such as after serious operations or in the case of injuries and/or burns, so that appropriate supplementation is often necessary.

A Glutamine deficiency can lead to a weak immune system, loss of muscle mass and an increased risk of infection.

It can be taken as a dietary supplement in powder form, such as the 100% pure L-glutamine from Arktis BioPharma. Here you stir 1 heaped teaspoon into a liquid of your choice and should drink it immediately (oxidizes quickly). L-glutamine supplements are very well tolerated, but should be taken several times a day to avoid bloating and diarrhea.