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Glutamine Akg

Also known as: Glutamine, L-Gln, Gln, L-Glutamine

Overview

L-Glutamine is a conditionally essential amino acid that is crucial for various metabolic processes including protein synthesis, immune function, and intestinal health. As the most abundant amino acid in the human body, it can be sourced from high-protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Supplementation is popular among athletes and those recovering from surgery, particularly colorectal cancer patients, due to its purported benefits in enhancing recovery, gut health, and immune function. While extensive research supports some benefits, the quality of evidence varies, with certain studies indicating moderate to significant effects based on the target population and specific outcomes measured.

Benefits

L-Glutamine supplementation has demonstrated several notable benefits primarily substantiated by meta-analyses. In colorectal cancer patients, it significantly enhances immune function by improving serum immunoglobulin levels and reducing post-operative complications, as shown in a meta-analysis of 31 randomized controlled trials encompassing 2,201 patients. Athletes may experience modest weight reduction with glutamine use, evidenced by findings from 25 trials which reported a significant decrease in body weight. However, evidence related to athletic performance improvement is less robust. Although some studies suggest glutamine reduces intestinal permeability when administered in higher doses over shorter durations, the overall effect is inconsistent. Thus, the most substantial benefits appear in specific populations such as cancer recovery patients.

How it works

L-Glutamine acts primarily as a substrate for enterocytes, immune cells, and other tissues. It supports the tricarboxylic acid cycle, providing energy to cells, particularly in the gut and immune system. Additionally, glutamine is involved in synthesizing glutathione, a vital antioxidant. By regulating cellular functions, including amino acid transport and metabolic pathways, glutamine helps maintain gut barrier integrity and immune response, which are crucial for overall health and recovery.

Side effects

L-Glutamine is generally safe for most individuals, with common side effects including gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain occurring in over 5% of users. Less frequent side effects, such as allergic reactions, may arise in a small percentage of patients. Rare occurrences of severe allergic responses have been noted but are poorly documented. Drug interactions with medications affecting the gastrointestinal or immune systems could potentially occur; however, specific interactions remain understudied. While no clear contraindications exist, caution is advised for individuals with severe liver or kidney diseases. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers prior to supplementing due to limited safety data.

Dosage

Recommended dosages of L-Glutamine vary according to specific health goals. For immune support in colorectal cancer patients, effective doses range from 10 to 30 grams per day. Athletes may benefit from doses up to 20 grams daily, especially around workout timings. Studies on intestinal permeability suggest doses greater than 30 grams per day can yield effects, though for limited durations. There is no established maximum safe dosage, but continual intake above 30 grams daily is less common in research contexts. Forms of glutamine such as powders, capsules, and intravenous solutions are available, each with good absorption when taken orally, though factors such as other nutrient interactions may affect bioavailability.

FAQs

Is L-Glutamine safe?

Yes, L-Glutamine is generally considered safe, but it's advised to consult a healthcare provider, especially for individuals with health conditions or special populations.

When should I take L-Glutamine?

Timing depends on the use case; post-operative patients typically take it pre- or post-surgery, while athletes may consume it before or after workouts.

What results can I expect from L-Glutamine supplementation?

Expect improvements in immune function for cancer recovery, modest weight reduction in athletes, and possible gut health benefits.

Does L-Glutamine enhance athletic performance?

There is no strong evidence supporting significant enhancements in athletic performance; benefits are more focused on weight reduction.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.765809/full – This meta-analysis assesses the impact of glutamine supplementation on humoral immune function in colorectal cancer patients, showing significant improvements in immunoglobulin levels and a reduction in postoperative complications.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29784526/ – The systematic review analyzes multiple trials among athletes, revealing no substantial effect on immune metrics or performance, yet highlighting a significant weight loss associated with glutamine supplementation.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39397201/ – This systematic review investigates the effects of glutamine on intestinal permeability, finding no overall influence but noting potential benefits with doses exceeding 30 grams per day for short durations.