Support for Heart Health and Muscle Discomfort

L-Arginine Background and Benefits

The L form of arginine is one of the 20 amino acids commonly found in nature. It is classified as a conditionally essential amino acid, meaning that the human body cannot produce sufficient amounts under certain conditions and at certain stages of development. For example, premature infants and adults with poor nutrition may require L-arginine as a dietary supplement. Swiss chemist Ernst Schultze first isolated L-arginine in 1886 from an extract of lupine seedlings.
L-arginine is readily available from many food sources. Common animal sources of L-arginine include meats such as beef, poultry, and game, especially birds. Dairy products such as milk, whey protein and yoghurt are also important sources of L-arginine. Fish such as halibut, salmon and tuna contain L-arginine, as do shellfish such as shrimp. Plant sources of L-arginine include wheat flour and wheat germ. Almonds, cashews, pecans and walnuts contain high concentrations of L-arginine. Other plant sources include seeds such as pumpkin, sunflower and sesame.
 
L-arginine is critical for body's natural ability to heal itself. It also has many other important functions, such as supporting cell division, maintaining the immune system and healthy hormone levels. Other physiological functions of L-Arginine include the transport of ammonia from the body.
 

Uses of L-Arginine

Relieving muscle discomfort is one of the most common reasons for taking L-arginine supplements. It shortens the recovery time after exercise. L-arginine to support healthy blood circulation.
 

Signs of a possible need for L-arginine

Normally, the body has an adequate supply of L-arginine, but under certain conditions, this supply may be depleted. L-Arginine is a common supplement for bodybuilders because it can help reduce fat storage and increase endurance. It promotes protein metabolism by supporting nitrogen balance, so it can also be useful for people who want to maintain a healthy weight.