Focus on Amino Acids: Glutamine

There are dozens of different amino acids in the world, and around twenty that are used in the human body. They are vital in many bodily functions, and are sometimes prescribed in the hope that they will help patients lose weight, find increased energy, improve mental fatigue and better tolerate stress. Today we are looking at a common non-essential amino acid supplement in depth: glutamine.

The Basics

The scientific name for L-glutamine amino acid is (2S)-2,5-Diamino-5-oxopentanoic acid. Its molecular formula is C5H10N2O3, which translates to 5 atoms of carbon, 10 of hydrogen, 2 of nitrogen and 3 of oxygen. All those common substances put together play an important role in our body! It is the most abundant free amino acid in our body, and is founding healthy blood samples in concentrations of 500-900 micromol per liter.

Functions

Amino acids are all involved in the synthesis of different proteins within the body. The body makes its own glutamine -- the major source of this is the muscles. Around 90% of all the glutamine in the body comes from a person's muscle mass, which leads some to believe that if you have lower muscle mass, you may also be deficient in L-glutamine and require amino acid supplements. In addition to protein synthesis, L-glutamine:

• Is a source of cellular energy, as glucose is
• Produces ammonium in the kidneys to help regulate your body's acid-base balance
• Provides nitrogen in anabolic processes

When are glutamine amino acid supplements necessary?

If you suffer from a catabolic illness or injury, you may need to derive l-glutamine from your food or supplements -- your body may not be able to make enough on its own. 10-15 years of study have been performed on glutamine, and it is considered useful for treating burns, injuries, and helping with the side effects of cancer treatment.

Supplements and food sources

Supplements are one of the richest sources of L-glutamine, and unlike with some supplements, higher dosages do not seem to result in reduced effects. You can also supplement your L-glutamine intake by eating foods like:

• Beef, chicken and fish
• Milk and other dairy products
• Cabbage
• Beets
• Spinach
• Parsley
• Beans