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L-Glutamine

Glutamine is highly in demand throughout the body. It is used in the gut and immune system extensively to maintain optimal performance. Specifically, glutamine is utilized as a source of energy and for nucleotide synthesis by all rapidly dividing cells, such as the cells of the intestinal lining and certain immune cells (thymocytes, lymphocytes and macrophages). Without sufficient glutamine, the intestines atrophy and the immune function breaks down. Sixty percent of free-form amino acids floating in skeletal muscles are L-glutamine. L-glutamine plays a very important role in protein metabolism, and it appears to be a very important nutrient for body builders, powerlifters and athletes. When supplemented, it may help reduce the amount of muscle deterioration that occurs because other tissues that need glutamine will not rob the glutamine stored in the muscle cells. Research shows that after intensely working out, glutamine levels in the body are reduced by as much as 50%. Since the body relies on glutamine as cellular fuel for the immune system, scientific studies have shown that glutamine supplementation can minimize the breakdown of muscle tissue and improve protein metabolism. Glutamine's cell-volumising effects have also been shown in several studies.