L-arginine in the work of the body: what is it good for?

L-arginine helps the body to remove waste and toxins, it also takes part in the synthesis of proteins. Certain illnesses and conditions such as burns, sepsis, jaundice, protein deficiencies, and poor nutrition can interfere with the body's ability to produce the conditionally essential amino acid L-arginine. This in turn leads to symptoms such as constipation, hair loss, skin problems, slow wound healing, and fat accumulation in the liver. Estet-portal.com will talk about the effects of L-arginine on the body, where to get it, as well as the dangers of an excess of the amino acid L-arginine in the body.

Conditionally replaceable amino acid L-arginine in the body

L-arginine is called a conditionally essential amino acid because under normal conditions the body provides itself with sufficient amounts of the levorotatory form of arginine. However, in cases of certain disorders, including injuries or diseases of the liver, a person develops a deficiency of L-arginine – and he needs to take such an amino acid in the form of supplements. What is the function of this amino acid in the body?

1. L-arginine plays an important role in the synthesis of nitric oxide, essential for cardiovascular health, normal immune function, liver function, etc.
2. L-arginine takes part in the formation of urea, which helps to remove harmful substances from the body. Urea is formed as a result of the breakdown of proteins, as well as excess nitrogen, which is excreted from the body along with urine.
3. L-arginine helps the body produce creatine – a protein that is found in muscles and increases strength and endurance, and get rid of creatinine – by-product of this process.

Human Health Benefits of L-Arginine

1. In medicine, L-arginine is used as a vasodilator, ie. it dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow. In addition, it prevents blockage of the arteries, which can occur with diseases such as atherosclerosis.
2. Restoration of the chemical balance that is disturbed as a result of failures in the detoxification function of the body.
3. The amino acid L-arginine is also a potential treatment for angina and coronary heart disease. Due to its ability to lower blood pressure, this conditionally essential amino acid may be helpful in the event of blood clots, especially in the legs.
4. L-arginine accelerates the healing of wounds and burns.
5. Some research suggests that L-arginine may reduce migraine pain.
6. For bodybuilders, the amino acid L-arginine is beneficial in helping to maintain muscle mass. True, L-arginine does not have miraculous properties that quickly allow you to quickly gain muscle mass.
7. L-arginine helps improve sexual function. This effect of this amino acid is due to an increase in the level of nitric oxide in the body, as well as vasodilation. However, L-arginine is not omnipotent – with the treatment of erectile dysfunction, which is not associated with impaired blood flow, he will not cope.

L-arginine side effects and contraindications

Any drug or supplement has side effects, and L-arginine is no exception, this amino acid can cause:

1. Exacerbation of certain diseases of the liver and kidneys.
2. Dehydration and potassium imbalance, as well as nausea and stomach cramps.
3. L-arginine is not recommended for people who have had a heart attack, people with hemophilia, people taking anticoagulants, people with low blood pressure, pregnant and lactating women, people who carry viruses (for example, herpes).
4. In case of allergic reactions, anaphylaxis is possible.

The table shows the content of arginine in foods. According to WHO recommendations, the normal daily dose for a person is 6.1 g, the maximum allowable – 9.8 g. Estet-portal.com reminds: you should consult your doctor before taking any supplements.