Glutamine

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid* (protein building block) in the body and is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid.

*Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Twenty amino acids are needed to build the various proteins used in the growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Eleven of these amino acids can be made by the body itself, while the other nine (called essential amino acids) must come from the diet. The classification of an amino acid as essential or nonessential does not reflect its importance, because all 20 amino acids are necessary for health. Instead, this classification system simply reflects whether or not the body is capable of manufacturing a particular amino acid

Glutamine is converted to glucose when more glucose is required by the body as an energy source. It serves as a source of fuel for cells lining the intestines. Without Glutamine, these cells waste away. It is also used by white blood cells and is important for immune function**. In animal research, glutamine has anti-inflammatory effects. Glutamine in combination with N-acetyl cysteine*** promotes the synthesis of glutathione****, a naturally occurring antioxidant that is believed to be protective in people with HIV infection. Evidence indicates that intravenous glutamine supplementation increases the survival rate of critically ill people.

Glutamine is found in many foods high in protein, such as fish, meat, beans, and dairy products.

**The immune system is an intricate network of specialized tissues, organs, cells, and chemicals. The lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, thymus gland, and tonsils all play a role, as do lymphocytes (specialized white blood cells), antibodies, and interferon.

***N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an altered form of the amino acid cysteine, which is commonly found in food and synthesized by the body. NAC helps break down mucus.

****Glutathione is a small protein composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Glutathione is involved in detoxification—it binds to toxins, such as heavy metals, solvents, and pesticides, and transforms them into a form that can be excreted in urine or bile. Glutathione is also an important antioxidant.

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