Often, we don’t see, or take for granted, things that
are right in front of us. Glutamine is one of those things.
Have you ever watched someone looking for ketchup in the fridge?
The door is wide open, and it’s sitting there on the
shelf, but they can’t see it. Often, we don’t
see, or take for granted, things that are right in front of
us. Glutamine is one of those things.
Glutamine is a protein (part of the macronutrient group) that
is produced by a conversion process in skeletal muscle and
the liver. The body takes a non-essential amino acid, glutamic
acid, and adds an additional nitrogen atom. Glutamine is the
most abundant amino acid in the body. However, in stressed,
injured or active individuals, demand can outweigh supply.
An amazing variety of body functions depend on, or are improved
by, abundant supplies of glutamine.
Immune Function
Glutamine supports the natural synthesis of our key antioxidant
and immune-boosting chemical,1 glutathione, which provides
general disease-fighting insurance. It also helps to prevent
pathogens from entering the system, primarily through the
intestinal wall.
Intestinal Healer
Glutamine is the key protein for ensuring intestinal health,2
It is the primary material for regenerating the intestinal
lining. When the lining is healthy, it allows nutrients to
pass into the blood stream and prevents toxins from entering
the system. If availability of glutamine is low in conjunction
with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac or
Crohn’s disease,3 then skeletal muscle tissue is utilized.
This creates a cascade of problems, including slowed metabolism
and an increased tendency to store body fat.
Muscle Repair
There are two principal functions of glutamine in muscle
tissue. It is the most abundant free-form protein in muscle,
comprising approximately 50 percent of the amino acid structures.
As tissue is damaged, due to stress (illness and emotional)
or exertion (exercise), higher levels of glutamine are required
for repair.4 Glutamine also protects muscle tissue from cortisol,
a hormone released from the adrenal glands as a result of
exertion or stress. Cortisol attaches itself to muscle cell
receptor sites and consumes the tissue. Glutamine acts as
a protective barrier for the muscle tissue.
An ideal time to take glutamine is before bed. Glutamine
supports the natural release of human growth hormone, supporting
skeletal muscle repair and overall cellular recovery—an
important anti-aging property.
Brain Function
Glutamine is also an abundant protein in the fluid surrounding
the brain and spine (cerebrospinal fluid). It is an important
precursor to key neurotransmitters that send impulses in the
brain and to nervous system tissue throughout the body. Studies
show that glutamine helps in addiction recovery and functions
as an antidepressant.5,6
Sources of Glutamine
Glutamine-rich foods include fish, meat, dairy, grains, and
beans. Glutamine supplements are usually derived from the
protein in whey or wheat. There are two forms that are generally
available: l-glutamine (the free-form amino acid) and glutamine
peptides (partially digested).
L-glutamine, although it is the purest form of supplemental
glutamine, is less stable to store over time. It should be
kept in a cool, dark location. Since l-glutamine can elevate
ammonia levels in the body, it should be used in small amounts
(2 to 4 g) throughout the day. Glutamine peptides are more
easily digested, although they have a distinctive taste.
Either l-glutamine or glutamine peptides, or combinations
of both, provides significant building blocks for healing.
The normal dosage is from 2 to 20 grams per day, and levels
of even 40 grams per day show no negative side effects.
Key to Healing
We know that protein plays a critical role in the ongoing
cellular recovery of our bodies. The range and subtleties
of that healing become amazing when we look at the role of
glutamine. It is one of the body’s most important building
blocks of health.
Article References:
1. Alverdy, J.C. “Effects of Glutamine-Supplemented
Diets on Immunology of the Gut” JPEN 14(1990):109S-113S
2. Hartman, F., M. Plaath. “Intestinal Glutamine Metabolism”
Metabolism 38 (suppl 1) (1989):18-24
3. Fox, A.D., et al. “Effects of Glutamine-Supplemented
Enteral Diet on Methotrexate-Induced Enterocolitis”
JPEN 12 (1987):43-44.
4. Stehle, P., et al. “Effects of Parenteral Glutamine
Peptide Supplements on Muscle Glutamine Loss and Nitrogen
Balance After Major Surgery.” Lancet I (1987):231-233
5. Cocchi, R. “Antidepressive Properties of L-Glutamine.”
Acta Psychiatr Belg 76 (1976):658-666
6. Young, L.S., et al. “Patients Receiveing Glutamine
Supplemented Intravenous Feedings Report an Improvement in
Mood” JPEN 17 (1993):422-427
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