L-Glutamine

Clinical studies in recent years have changed the long-held view of scientists that glutamine is a nonessential amino acid. This reassessment has occurred in stages. Since the 1980′s L-Glutamine has been classified as a conditionally essential amino acid, meaning that your body usually can make (synthesize) enough. Clinicians have widely disputed this view, however, claiming that “enough” frequently is not enough.

By the early 1990′s researchers were catching up and becoming more alert to the fact that during times of stress, whether from fever, illness, dieting, or chemotherapy your body’s production of L-Glutamine simply cannot keep up with its requirements. Furthermore, it has been found that L-Glutamine often is one of the best supplements to take during these times.

Scientists also have discovered that L-Glutamine is essential for the normal functioning of the intestines. It is recognized as the second most important fuel for the cells lining the colon and helps clear the body of waste through the kidneys and liver.

For decades L-Glutamine has been popular with bodybuilders because of its role in maintaining and building muscles. At the same time, medical researchers were discovering that L-Glutamine helps maintain muscle health during prolonged bed rest and illnesses. During these times – without special dietary attention – your body simply cannibalizes itself, and the wasting of patients in hospitals has for years been a particularly intractable problem. L-Glutamine has proven to be a great benefit.