Glutamine

Glutamine is the most common amino acid found in your muscles. 61% of your skeletal muscle is Glutamine. Glutamine consists of 19% nitrogen, making it the primary transporter of nitrogen into your muscle cells.

During intense physical exercise/training Glutamine levels are greatly reduced, which decreases strength, stamina and recovery. It could take up to 6 days for Glutamine levels to return to normal

Glutamine plays a key role in protein synthesis. Protein synthesis is the name used when the body is creating protein. When we work out we take Glutamine (amongst others) away from the muscles and put them in a "catabolic state" (muscle breakdown). This is why it is important to have a post work out meal and/or supplement to replenish muscle stores and put the muscles in a "anabolic state" (Muscle growth). Studies have shown that L-Glutamine supplementation can minimize breakdown of muscle and improve protein metabolism.

Glutamine's protein synthesis and metabolism properpeties are espically useful for people who are "cutting" (losing bodyfat). These people will be on a calorie deficit, this means they will not be getting as much food as usual and therefore not as much Glutamine. Glutamine also helps preserve muscle mass during this calorie deficit phase.

Glutamine is also used to help maintain a healthy immune system to keep your body at its  peak. As you work out your body uses up its Glutamine stores, this makes athletes and bodybuilders more open to illness. Keeping a good amount of Glutamine in your system helps prevent illness (no one wants their nose running during deadlifting)

Glutamine Benefits:

- Promotes protein synthesis

- Prevents catabolism

- Maintains cell volume and hydration, speeding up wound and burns healing/recovery

- Promotes growth hormone levels

- Promotes a healthy immune system

- One of the most important nutrients for your small intestine. Glutamine as the ability to repair a "leaky gut".

- Studies show a repair rate of 92% in 4 weeks for ulcers due to Glutamine

FAQ:

Q. How much Glutamine should I be taking ?

A. Atheletes, bodybuilders & people who undergo a large amount of physical stress should be suppplementing with around 10-15 grams per day. This 10-15 grams should be set out into 3 servings of 5 grams (scoops usually supplied or 1 heaped tea spoon).

Q. When should I take L-Glutamine ?

A. I usually recommened in the morning, post workout & before bed.

Q. Is there any side effects with L-Glutamine?

A. Basically no. Glutamine occurs naturally in the body and studies have found no adverse side effects. However with all things too much is never good, I would suggest sticking to the recommended dosages unless otherwise told to do so by a professional. Too much Glutamine although not dangerous usually leads to upset stomachs.

Best of all Glutamine is a pretty cheap supplement check out our full range here