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L-Arginine: Benefits, Dosage And Rich Sources

Posted on the 22 July 2023 by Vishal Kaushik @HR_Gabru
L-Arginine: Benefits, Dosage And Rich Sources

Maintaining various bodily functions is a pivotal role ⁠ played by L-arginine, an important amino acid. Amino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins ⁠ and can be classified as essential and non-essential. The body synthesizes non-essential amino acids, but essential ⁠ amino acids are obtained through the diet. ⁠

L-arginine is labeled as a semi-essential or conditionally essential amino acid, indicating that it ⁠ becomes crucial under specific circumstances like pregnancy, infancy, critical illness, and trauma. The production of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that facilitates blood circulation, ⁠ mitochondrial function, and cellular communication, depends on this essential amino acid. ​

In addition, L-arginine functions as a building block for important amino acids like glutamate, proline, ⁠ and creatine, which are essential for promoting a healthy and fully functioning immune system. The production of T-cells and white blood cells, crucial ⁠ components of the immune response, depends on L-arginine. Impairment of cellular and organ function can have severe health ⁠ consequences if there is a deficiency in L-arginine.

Sources Of L-Arginine ⁠

L-arginine can be obtained through dietary intake or by converting the amino ⁠ acid citrulline into it through the breakdown of body proteins. Foods rich in L-arginine include:

  • Eggs;
  • Beef;
  • Turkey;
  • Chicken;
  • Dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, and kefir;
  • Seaweed;
  • Coconut;
  • Pumpkin seeds;
  • Sesame seeds;
  • Sunflower seeds;
  • Beef and chicken liver;
  • Wild-caught fish;
  • Sea vegetables; and
  • Nuts such as walnut, almonds, etc.

Recommended Dosage

The ideal amount of L-arginine to consume daily ⁠ from natural food sources is 4-6 grams. Liquid, capsule, and tablet forms of L-arginine supplements are ⁠ widely accessible, both online and in physical stores.

Health Benefits Of L-Arginine

L-arginine offers a wide range of health benefits; including:

1. Promotes Athletic Performance

Studies indicate that taking L-arginine supplements can boost ⁠ exercise performance by raising nitric oxide levels in the body. This supports improved blood circulation and a ⁠ steady flow of oxygen to the muscles. People who used L-arginine supplements witnessed an augmentation in nitric oxide ⁠ levels in their blood, leading to enhanced endurance during exercise.

2. Controls Blood Pressure:

Supplementing with L-arginine is advantageous ⁠ for people with unregulated blood pressure. Several studies demonstrate that taking L-arginine supplements can significantly ⁠ reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. By promoting the production of nitric oxide, the amino acid relaxes the cells ⁠ comprising blood vessels and assists in the control of blood pressure.

3. Manages Diabetes

Evidence suggests that L-arginine may be valuable for ⁠ managing diabetes by promoting glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. The crucial function of nitric oxide in cellular activity ⁠ and insulin response is facilitated by L-arginine. Regulating insulin secretion and preventing blood sugar spikes may be ⁠ achieved by ensuring a sufficient supply of nitric oxide. Among vulnerable populations, extended use of L-arginine supplementation might be ⁠ beneficial in reducing the risk of developing diabetes.

4. Manages Critical Illness

Compromised immune function during critical illness or ⁠ post-surgery results in an increased demand for L-arginine. If the body cannot meet this demand, L-arginine ⁠ needs to be supplemented by external sources. Impaired immune response and blood flow can occur due ⁠ to the depletion of L-arginine in these situations. L-arginine supplementation can help reduce the negative ⁠ consequences of trauma or critical illness.

5. May Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction

L-arginine has demonstrated potential ⁠ in aiding men with erectile dysfunction (ED). Its mechanism of action involves enhancing blood circulation to the penile ⁠ tissues, a critical factor in attaining and sustaining erections. The production of nitric oxide is boosted by L-arginine, which in turn relaxes ⁠ and dilates blood vessels, resulting in enhanced blood flow to the penis. Combining L-arginine supplements with other supplements like Pycnogenol has shown positive ⁠ outcomes in men with ED, according to several studies. ⁠

6-10. L-Arginine And Pregnancy

  • Promotes Healthy Pregnancy: L-arginine supports ⁠ a healthy pregnancy. It assists in the maintenance of adequate blood circulation and blood ⁠ vessel function by acting as a precursor to nitric oxide. This is critical for providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the growing fetus, promoting its healthy development.
  • Reduced Risk Of Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia, a severe condition during pregnancy, is marked by ⁠ elevated blood pressure and injury to organs like the liver and kidneys. The risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women, particularly those at high risk, ⁠ could potentially be reduced through L-arginine supplementation, based on research findings. The enhancement of blood vessel function and promotion of healthy blood ⁠ flow with L-arginine could potentially prevent complications linked to preeclampsia.
  • Supports Fetal Growth And Development: Optimal fetal growth and development may also ⁠ be influenced by sufficient levels of L-arginine in the mother. The formation of tissues and organs in the developing baby relies on proteins, ⁠ which are produced through the involvement of L-arginine in protein synthesis. Adequately supplying L-arginine through the diet or supplements can ⁠ contribute to the healthy growth of the baby.
  • Enhances Immune Function: L-arginine's role in supporting the ⁠ immune system is also relevant during pregnancy. Protecting both the mother and the developing fetus from infections ⁠ and illnesses relies on a strong immune system. L-arginine supports the generation of immune cells and enhances their optimal ⁠ performance, potentially reducing the risk of infections during pregnancy.
  • Promotes Circulatory Health: Both the mother and the baby require ⁠ healthy blood circulation for their overall well-being. L-arginine's ability to promote nitric oxide production helps ⁠ relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This has benefits in preventing circulatory issues and ensuring ⁠ the placenta and fetus receive essential nutrients.

Conclusion

L-arginine, an essential amino acid, provides numerous health ⁠ advantages and aids crucial bodily functions. Adding L-arginine to a healthy lifestyle can be beneficial for individuals seeking to optimize ⁠ their well-being, whether they obtain it from dietary sources or as supplements. Consulting with a healthcare professional is vital prior to starting L-arginine or ⁠ any other dietary supplement routine, just like any other supplementation.

REFERENCES:

  1. L-arginine infusion promotes nitric oxide-dependent vasodilation, increases regional cerebral blood flow, and reduces infarction volume in the rat; Authors: E Morikawa and M A Moskowitz.
  2. L-arginine improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in hypercholesterolemic humans; Authors: M A Creager and S J Gallagher; Published October 1, 1992, Volume 90, Issue 4 on October 1, 1992.
  3. Anti-aging effects of l-arginine; Author: Mohamed Z. Gad; Journal of Advanced Research, Volume 1, Issue 3, July 2010, Pages 169-177.
  4. Effect of oral administration of high-dose nitric oxide donor l-arginine in men with organic erectile dysfunction: results of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study; Authors: Chen and Wollman; First published: 25 December 2001.
  5. Effects of Long-term Oral Administration of L-Arginine on the Rat Erectile Response; Authors: J.A. Moody and D. Vernet.
  6. Stimulation of lymphocyte natural cytotoxicity by L-arginine; Author: K.G.M. Park FRCSE; Volume 337, Issue 8742, 16 March 1991, Pages 645-646.

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