L-Arginine Benefits for Men

L-arginine is a naturally occurring alpha-amino acid, which is 'conditionally non essential' or semi essential. In most people, the body naturally produces enough to meet regular needs, and any required supplementation can be met by dietary means. However some people may suffer from certain conditions like malnutrition, excessive ammonia production or other infections which sometimes require external supplementation. Arginine performs a number of important functions including ridding the body of waste, production of creatinine and the production of nitric oxide, a blood vessel relaxant. L-arginine benefits for men have been the subject of much study and debate in recent times, with opinions widely divided for and against its favor.

L-Arginine Benefits

Apart from the usual functions that it performs, its benefits are numerous. Although the use of these amino acid supplements is still under debate, there are a number of health care professionals who are in support of its prescription, for the following benefits it provides:

Erectile Dysfunction
Men suffering from male impotence and erectile dysfunction have been found to have benefited from the use of L-arginine supplements. Much like Viagra, (sildenafil citrate) studies have found that the L-arginine's ability to behave as a precursor to the synthesis of nitric oxide, can help in the relaxation of muscles surrounding the penis and thereby boost blood flow. While Viagra works by the obstruction of an enzyme that destroys nitric oxide, L-arginine contributes to the formation of nitric oxide. L-arginine benefits for women are also mainly related to sexual response, in whom, a similar increase in blood flow causes increased clitoral and vaginal sensitivity which in turn leads to faster and heightened orgasms. Both men and women seem to benefit in terms of greater libidos and better sexual health.

Heart Disease
Although the jury is still out on this benefit, early evidence suggests that certain cardiovascular diseases which are caused by or linked to clogged arteries, atherosclerosis and other associated conditions benefit from the use of L-arginine supplements. This is again attributed to the formation of nitric oxide, which helps in the dilation of blood vessels.

Wound Healing
L-arginine also acts as a trigger for the formation of protein, which can help in the healing of wounds. In addition, protein helps in the healing of muscles and tissues and their formation. This is also important for bodybuilding.

Immune System Enhancement
L-arginine has also been found to increase the activity of the thymus gland, which is responsible for the formation of T cells. T cells are functional units of the immune system and vital for the body's defense against disease, infections and other medical conditions.

L-Arginine Side Effects

L-arginine's function of nitric oxide production can also lead to low blood pressure. In addition, L-arginine side effects include indigestion, nausea and headaches. It is not recommended for people suffering from the following conditions because of possible complications or potential worsening of symptoms:

• Diabetes
• Kidney diseases
• Liver disease
• Pregnant women and nursing mothers
• Genital herpes
• In addition, it should not be used in conjunction with ACE inhibitors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or by growing children.

Although there are a number of L-arginine benefits for men, it's important to check with a doctor before choosing to take L-arginine supplements, or self medicating. For a safer way to up levels, increase intake of L-arginine foods like soy products, meat, oats, dairy foods chocolate, peanuts, coconuts and almonds. Until such time as there is sufficient evidence to support the prescription of L-arginine, wherein the benefits outweigh the possible cons, there is the likelihood that medical community may refrain from its regular prescription.