L-Glutamine Side Effects

L-Glutamine is present naturally in our body and it is a form of amino acid. Under normal conditions, the cells present in the human body produce L-Glutamine without any hassles. Also, consumption of healthy food can give the body the required amount of L-Glutamine. But, in some cases, where a person is prone to more physical stress like rigorous exercising, bodybuilding, muscle-building, etc. the body demands a higher content of L-Glutamine. In such cases, people opt for L-Glutamine nutritional supplements.

L-Glutamine comes in powder form and according to studies and research done, there are no significant side effects of L-Glutamine. Yet, this amino acid supplement, very much like other supplements, if taken in excess, can have side effects. Let us take a look at the possible side effects of L-Glutamine supplements.

Side Effects of L-Glutamine

• Upset stomach is one of the most commonly observed side effect of L-Glutamine. Upset stomach is mostly caused due to excess presence of L-Glutamine in the body. Hence, if you suffer from an upset stomach, cut down its intake which will surely help in alleviating the condition. If you are taking L-Glutamine for the first time, then starting with a low dosage will be helpful in preventing upset stomach.
• People who are allergic to monosodium glutamate (MSG), should avoid taking L-Glutamine supplements. This is because the body converts glutamine to glutamate, which can lead to a severe allergic reaction.
• In some cases, this supplement will also cause an increase in the level of liver enzymes.
• L-Glutamine can also give rise to different psychological issues. These issues are mainly because of the excess accumulation of glutamate and ammonia in the brain. Individuals suffering from bipolar disorder should avoid the intake of L-Glutamine as it can result in further deterioration of the disorder.
• L-Glutamine can also cause convulsions in people who are already prone to seizures.
• Pregnant women and nursing mothers should consult the doctor before taking this supplement. Women who are trying to conceive should also consult their doctor before taking L-Glutamine supplement.
• People suffering from diseases like epilepsy, Reye's syndrome, liver diseases or any other serious allergies should try to refrain from taking this supplement. If at all they want to take it, they should take the advice from a medical practitioner and only then consume it.
• Some other side effects of L-Glutamine are headache, nausea, back pain, joint and muscle pain. Blood in urine, chills, fever and darkening of skin color are also some reported side effects of L-Glutamine.

Benefits of L-Glutamine

The benefits of L-Glutamine far overshadow its side effects. Hence, let us take a look at its benefits too.

• L-Glutamine prevents the muscle from being catabolized, thus, providing glutamine to other cells present in the body.
• It helps in repairing and building muscles and so it is useful for body builders who are looking to increase muscle mass. This supplement also helps in protein metabolism and protein synthesis.
• Another important benefit of L-Glutamine is, it aids in recuperation and recovery by restoring muscle glycogen.
• It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels in the body.
• It also helps in strengthening of the immune system.
• This supplement can also help in the management of symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

If you are taking other medication, then avoid the intake of this drug as it can interfere with the other drugs and the effects of the other drugs cannot be observed. In some cases, the interaction of the L-Glutamine with other drug can also give rise to different side effects. Especially, people on chemotherapy and those who are taking medication for cancer and seizures should avoid taking this supplement. Those people who are taking Lactulose, which is used for the treatment of chronic constipation should also avoid taking L-Glutamine supplements. In order to stay away from L-Glutamine side effects, take care that you do not consume it in excess. If you observe any of the above mentioned L-Glutamine side effects, do visit a medical practitioner immediately. Have a healthy life ahead!