Contents
L-Arginine
This conditionally essential amino acid is of great importance for various functions of the human body. L-Arginine is a carrier and donor of nitrogen, as it supplies NO to a certain system of enzymes (the so-called NO synthesis). L-Arginine promotes the expansion of blood vessels, thereby having a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and preventing the development of atherosclerotic plaques.
The role of L-Arginine in the body
L-Arginine – one of the most important components of metabolism in muscle cells. It is involved in the transport and removal of excess nitrogen from the body, thereby maintaining an optimal nitrogen balance. The ability of the body to produce urea and get rid of protein waste directly depends on the power of the work of a special cycle in which arginine (ornithine – citrulline – arginine) participates.
L-Arginine effectively stimulates the production of growth hormone (a product of growth hormone from the pituitary gland), which is of great importance for reducing body fat and rapid muscle growth.
L-Arginine makes a person more resilient and active, improves mood and vitality well. L-Arginine is recommended for people over 35 years old, it is by this age that the secretion processes from the pituitary gland slow down in the body.
Sources of L-Arginine
With a modern lifestyle and not a very good environment, the amount of L-Arginine assimilated from food does not fully replenish all the body’s needs. For this reason, it is necessary to regularly take special nutritional supplements containing pure L-Arginine, thereby nourishing the body with the necessary amount of this vital substance.
Natural sources of L-Arginine are coconuts, chocolate, raisins, sesame seeds, corn, oatmeal, gelatin, dairy products, peanuts, white flour, soybeans, walnuts, and wheat.
Benefits of L-Arginine
- slows down the development and growth of various tumors;
- helps cleanse the liver;
- increases the rate of healing of damaged tissues;
- stimulates the production of insulin in the pancreas and helps the synthesis of growth hormone;
- has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the prostate gland, stimulates spermatogenesis;
- regulates blood pressure;
- enhances metabolic processes in muscles;
- increases the cleansing potential of the kidneys;
- increases immunity;
- intensifies growth in children and adolescents;
- lowers cholesterol and prevents blood clots
Recommendations and contraindications
L-Arginine supplements should not be taken by people with viral infections such as Herpes simplex. L-Arginine is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women, as well as in mental illness such as schizophrenia.
For various diseases of the liver, joints and connective tissues, with glucose intolerance, doctors recommend taking L-Arginine in small doses. Long-term use of the drug is not desirable.
To improve the work of growth hormone, it is better to combine the intake of L-Arginine with tyrosine and tryptophan. Together, these amino acids are more active and have a significant effect.
When is L-Arginine supplementation needed?
L-Arginine is required when the body needs energy support:
- with a low level of endurance and psychophysical activity;
- with an immunodeficiency state.
L-Arginine is also actively used in various fields of medicine:
- with injuries, fractures and rehabilitation after undergoing operations;
- diabetes;
- for the complex therapy of infertility in men;
- for the prevention and complex therapy of atherosclerosis, hypertension, angina pectoris;
- with delayed growth and development in children;
- with malignant and benign neoplasms in various organs.