What is L-Arginine Good for?

Learn about what l-arginine is good for when it comes to the many functions of the human body, along with its side effects that can be triggered due to certain case scenarios...
Amino acids are necessary for the daily workings of one's body to take place the way it should, without it being hampered by the lack of it. It is also what keeps proteins bound and sustained, by being the supporting link within cell structures. L-arginine is a non-essential amino acid which is produced by the body, and is also available in the form of supplements for those who need it.

It is also used to produce other elements like l-glutamate, l-proline and creatine, which is then converted to glycogen or glucose depending upon if the body needs it. It also relaxes blood vessels upon the release of nitric oxide, which helps conditions that need a relaxant when it comes to tensed, or stressed blood vessels.

Benefits of L-Arginine

The arginine amino acid is a major role player when it comes to maintaining the different functions of the body. The benefits that have been known to be of great use to the human system are what we will get into.

Nitric Oxide Release
The presence of this oxide helps to dilate blood vessels, thus increasing the flow of blood to both the brain and the heart. Those who suffer from such problems of constricted blood vessels are given l-arginine supplements.

Infertility
This amino acid is known to increase sperm count, where a high dose of l-arginine is implemented for men who suffer from this very problem. Due to the release of nitric oxide which was covered in the previous benefit, the increase in flow of blood is made possible to the genital area resulting in a proper erection.

Immunity Builder
It increases the thymus gland's activity which manufactures T-cells that makes the body stronger and less susceptible to what can harm it. It slows down the growth of cancer cells, tumors and even the advancing of AIDS, due to its ability to increase T-cells.

Weight Loss and Muscle Content
Body builders have been found to use this amino acid to help in losing unnecessary weight and build on muscle tone. It decreases the presence of fat deposits and helps in metabolizing protein which is done by altering nitrogen levels in the body to a balanced state, which coverts protein into muscle mass in a simpler manner. There are also foods rich in l-arginine that are teeming with these amino acids that would do people good to include in their everyday diet.

Side Effects of L-Arginine

The side effects need to be addressed and are bound to take place upon repetitive use of l-arginine.
  • Increased defecation
  • Asthmatics suffer heightened symptoms
  • Blood sugar level increase
  • Bleeding problems
  • Low blood pressure
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Increase in potassium levels
  • Stomach cramping
  • Headaches
  • Venous irritation
  • Can worsen problems linked to sickle-cell disease
  • Numbness
  • Lower back pain
  • Itching
  • Shortness of breath
  • Flushing
  • Fidgety legs
It is important to consult a doctor before going on a medicated schedule using l-arginine injections or supplements, where attempting to use either of the two on your own could prove to be damaging. Have a healthy tomorrow.
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Published: 2/21/2011
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