Arginine
Arginine
L-Arginine is a dietary conditionally necessary amino acid. Because it is the amino acid that directly generates nitric oxide via the nitric oxide synthase enzymes, it is mostly utilized by athletes as a dietary supplement.
It’s especially crucial during sickness and chronic diseases like hypertension and type II diabetes, because these disorders are characterized by an increase in arginase, the enzyme that destroys L-arginine, resulting in a temporary shortage. In these circumstances, this occurs prior to an elevation in blood pressure, which can be somewhat alleviated by increasing L-arginine consumption or resolving the illness/disease state.
L-arginine is a popular supplement among athletes since it is said to boost nitric oxide production in the body. Unfortunately, in otherwise healthy individuals, this impact appears to be unreliable. While there have been studies that demonstrate enhanced nitric oxide (blood flow) effects, there have also been studies that show no net effects. In terms of the process, there’s reason to assume that this disparity is attributable in part to L-inadequate arginine’s absorption from the intestines before it can achieve significant action in the body.
Because it is converted to arginine in the kidneys, L-Citrulline is another supplement choice. It also has a higher rate of absorption. Citrulline is more effective than arginine at increasing plasma arginine levels. L-citrulline may be a superior supplemental choice for long-term health-related supplementation than L-arginine.
How to take
The typical L-arginine pre-workout dosage is 3-6g.
Arginine can be taken up to three times a day, for a total dose of 15-18g, to sustain increased arginine levels throughout the day. Note that supplementing with L-Citrulline is more effective in keeping arginine levels high for longer periods of time.
Consuming over 10 grams of arginine in one go might cause stomach pains and diarrhea.