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L-arginine is an amino acid that performs important functions in the human body – thanks to it, nitric oxide is released, which lowers blood pressure and relaxes smooth muscles. It is readily supplemented by athletes and bodybuilders, but its excessive use can lead to a number of side effects, including weakening of the heart muscle and heart attack.
What is L-arginine and how does it work?
L-arginine is an endogenous amino acid that occurs naturally in the human body and can be produced by it. It plays an important role in maintaining proper muscle metabolism. It has been proven to have a positive effect on the circulatory system and the heart – it releases nitric oxide, which causes vasodilation. This amino acid slows aging due to its antioxidant properties, and also promotes the production of collagen and proteins. In addition, it affects the thymus, which improves the body’s immunity and accelerates tissue regeneration, healing of wounds and burns, and reduces the risk of infection.
L-arginine is often one of the ingredients of potency supplements. Opinions about it, however, vary as it is a supplement, not a drug. Its effect on dilating blood vessels may facilitate erection, but it is not intended for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Where is L-arginine found and who should use it?
In the case of people who lead a healthy lifestyle and their diet is appropriately varied, there is no need for additional L-arginine supplementation. It is found naturally in poultry, red meat, whole grains, seafood, eggs, dairy products, soybeans, spinach, seeds and nuts, and lentils.
L-arginine promotes the reduction of body fat, accelerates muscle growth, and increases the body’s ability to exercise, which is why it is especially recommended for athletes. However, the effects of its action are short, and when used for too long and in excessive amounts, it can be harmful. The demand for this substance may also apply to people in convalescence, overweight, suffering from chronic diseases and diseases that result in exhaustion of the body, as well as seniors and children. L-arginine, like any other supporting preparation, should not be used without consulting a doctor. This applies in particular to cancer patients – reducing the amount of this amino acid in some cases causes the breakdown of cancer cells.
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Dangers of using L-arginine
The effects of excessive use of L-arginine in large amounts include, in particular, increased acidity in the stomach, risk of heart attack, increased blood pressure, kidney weakness, gastric problems, weakened immune system, dry skin. It is not recommended for people suffering from schizophrenia, oncological diseases, cirrhosis and renal failure, as well as pregnant and lactating women.