Glutamine is a very important amino acid that assists in the removal of excess ammonia from your body and aids in overall immune system functionality. Glutamine also is essential for proper digestion and mental functioning. Since it is so important, the body actually makes its own supply of Glutamine and stores it in the muscle and lungs. However, despite the body’s ability to make this important amino acid, extreme stress on the body can wind up depleting your bodies Glutamine supplies at faster rate than your lungs can make it.

Circumstances such as an injury, a medical condition, high stress, or prolonged exercise can wind up depleting your body’s Glutamine supplies resulting in toxic build up of ammonia, a compromised immune system, digestive issues and even improper brain function. If this is the case, you may want to consider taking a Glutamine supplement in order to combat the effects of low glutamine levels.

In Recovery

Anytime the hormone cortisol is released into the bloodstream, it taxes your body’s stores of Glutamine. Cortisol is a hormone that your body releases in time of injury or stress. A glutamine supplement taken during recovery from a surgical procedure or injury can help reduce the chances of infections. 

IBS

Aside from helping to keep your immune system in good working order, Glutamine also helps to protect the mucosa that lines your gastrointestinal tract. Taking a Glutamine supplement may actually help you out if you happen to suffer from inflammatory bowel disease or Crohn’s disease.

Malnourishment

People who suffer from extreme weight loss, such as a cancer or AIDs patient, can also benefit from taking extra Glutamine. Supplementing with Glutamine can help your body absorb more nutrients through the intestinal walls and can help give your immune system a much needed boost.

Athletes

High endurance sports can end up draining an athlete’s Glutamine Stores. This is the reason why many marathon runners are susceptible to colds after a race. By supplementing with Glutamine, these extreme athletes are going to be less susceptible to infections and viruses and be able to recover faster.

Sources

Aside from making it, your body can also obtain Glutamine from plant and animal proteins. Meat, milk, cheese, spinach and cabbage are all good examples of dietary sources high in Glutamine. It is also available in supplement form and can be found in many multivitamin supplements including SIX Nutrition for Men.  

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