Bodybuilding

What actually is Glutamine?

Glutamine is actually a non-essential amino acid which means it can be made from the other amino present in the body naturally. Glutamine makes more than half of the pool of amino acid present in the body and approximately 5-7% of the muscle protein.

Glutamine can be used to fuel the immune system of the human body during the times of stressed immune system or when the body’s need of Glutamine increases due to workouts. It can be broken down for the purpose of supplying energy to the body during exercise schedules and workouts. In such cases, blood levels f glutamine gets reduced due to inability of the rate of production of glutamine to meet the requirements. Thereafter extra glutamine is released from the body muscles which result in the muscles turning catabolic even after continuing training or workout.

In case of low glycogen levels, the release of glutamine and breakdown of muscles increase. It is then the glutamine supplements which comes into action and offset the breakdown of muscles and also helps in conserving muscle tissue during times of dieting and thorough training in addition to boosting the immune system of the Body.

How does Glutamine Work?

It might happen that the glutamine supplementation is helpful for the preservation of muscle mass in addition to supporting the immune system of the Body during times of intense training. As per the Oxford University study, the intake of L glutamine supplement within a short span or rather immediately after a strenuous exercise schedule is found to reduce the infection threat in the upper respiratory tract.

But glutamine does not raise the muscle size, performance or strength. There is no need of taking these supplements if one is having his proper diet. It is only beneficial in case of dieting or strenuous training or exercises.

Dosage of L Glutamine

The recommended dosage is 5-7gm which is equal to 100mg of glutamine per kilogram of body weight. The glutamine supplement must be taken within 2 hours after exercises or training. It may be taken as a separate supplement or be taken as a post-workout drink.

Benefits:

It helps in the prevention of muscles from being catabolized.

1. It helps in providing fast speeding of wounds and healing of burns.
2. It is also beneficial in the production of growth hormone levels.
3. It is also proved to boost the immune system of the Body.
4. It is considered to be the most vital food for the intestines.
5. It is also helpful in the treatment of ulcers.

Side Effects:

No side effects have been reported of L glutamine supplements. A it is naturally produced in the body itself, even a high dosage would be complemented by the body by itself producing small quantity of glutamine.