Glutamine Powder and L-Glutamine Powder

Glutamine can be found in protein powders that are largely and widely used by bodybuilders and athletes. As a supplement it has little or no side effects, although too much of anything is not a good thing and can result in an upset stomach. Whey protein supplements, which are readily and widely available, tend to contain around 2 grams per serving. It is however, generally recognized that this supplement will be most effective when taking about 10-15 grams per day for bodybuilders. It can be purchased in powder or capsule form, is completely tasteless and odorless, and can be mixed with anything for oral consumption.

How does Glutamine Powder work?

What Glutamine or L-Glutamine does is play a vital role in protein metabolism, cell volumizing, increased production and secretion of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and anti-catabolism i.e. the impairment and breakdown of muscle tissue, especially in bodybuilders when "cutting down" in preparation for competition, or in attempting to reduce fat. Although, there has been no conclusive research into the effects of supplementation on adults in weight-training, a recent study showed that a dramatic 400 percent increase in HGH levels could occur by the consumption of just 2 grams of supplement.

Other consistent research findings show that after an intense work out lactic acid build up has occurred in the muscles, but at the same time Glutamine levels are reduced by as much as 50 percent. Studies have also shown that Glutamine supplementation effective reduces muscle tissue breakdown and improves protein metabolism. It is this function of Glutamine which has prompted medical centres and hospitals in Europe to administer Glutamine to patients who have experienced stress and trauma.

L-Glutamine Powders and Supplements for Bodybuilders and Athletes

While stress or trauma victims (such as burns, surgery, and disease such as cancer patients) can gain from the intake of Glutamine or L-Glutamine, it holds a slightly varied, but just as much a necessity for bodybuilders. Heavy working out by bodybuilders not only reduces their levels of L Glutamine but in doing so lowers the immune system defence thereby making them more susceptible to illness. The signs of Glutamine deficiency in bodybuilders are apparent from them becoming ill or losing lean muscle. When muscle mass is lost catabolism or muscle break down occurs causing muscle wastage which then sets off a chain reaction where the body begins to rob muscles of Glutamine required for nitrogen transport which then begins to drain the immune system. Studies have also found that Glutamine counteracts cortisone steroid induced muscle atrophy.

Another important application for Glutamine has to do with the specific diets that bodybuilders and athletes need. In those diets consumption of calories and protein is typically high adding to the stress which can affect the ph-levels in bodybuilders and athletes. Glutamine comes to the rescue here by the production and metabolism of glutamine in the kidneys to maintain an acid/alkaline balance. It essentially works to negate the effects of acute acidosis is in uncontrolled diabetes, kidney disorders, decreased oxygen in the body, fluid and electrolyte loss, the greater the acidity, the higher the rate of glutamine metabolism in the kidneys. Studies show it only required 2 grams of glutamine intake to produce a rapid increase in plasma bicarbonate (building alkaline reserves).

Using L-Glutamine Supplements

It is widely accepted that 10-15 grams ingested prior and post workout in up to 5 gram doses benefits bodybuilders, although the exact amount used in day for optimization has not been determined. Research has found a strong correlation between survival in the worst infected patients and the muscle Glutamine levels. Its use therefore by athletes brings about several major benefits such as:

• Stimulating muscle protein synthesis by supplying nitrogen around the body.
• Decrease muscle catabolism and atrophy during exercise.
• Increase stamina by replenishing glycogen under conditions of glycogen depletion.
• Decrease muscle recovery time.
• Reduce the chances of illness or infection by boosting the immune system.

Medical benefits of L Glutamine Powder

L Glutamine powder has healing properties. The cells of connective tissue in the body called fibroblasts use glutamine for protein synthesis and also for 30 percent of their energy needs. Glutamine is required for their proliferation and is therefore critical in wound metabolism and healing. For athletes this means the healing of damaged joint tissue and also damaged muscle tissue after intense training. Its diversity and use cannot be understated given its importance to several other organs and its use in fighting disease.

Side Effects of L Glutamine Supplements

Glutamine is a naturally occuring substance in the body, and Glutamine or L-Glutamine powders and supplements taken in moderation have been proven to have no adverse side effects. However, those suffering from either Type I or Type II diabetes should exercise extreme caution when taking Glutamine powders or supplements, as excess amounts of Glutamine in the body may be used in the production of glucose instead of passing harmlessly out of the body.

As a precaution, anyone considering starting a regimen including Glutamine supplements should consult a physician, nutritionist, or other qualified professional.

L-Glutamine Powders on the Market

There are a wide variety of Glutamine powders and supplements available on the market. Some of the most popular brands include