L-arginine is an amino acid. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, divided into essential & nonessential categories. Nonessential amino acids are made in the body, but essential amino acids are not, hence, they must be provided through dietary intake.
L-arginine is semi-essential, meaning it becomes essential under certain conditions. L-arginine is necessary to produce nitric oxide, which is needed for a variety of bodily processes, including blood flow regulation, mitochondrial function, & cellular communication.
It also acts as a precursor to other amino acids, including glutamate, proline, and creatine, and is essential for the health & functioning of the immune system. Arginine is necessary for the development of T-cells, which are white blood cells that play central roles in the immune response. Due to L-arginine having so many critical roles, a deficiency can disrupt cellular & organ function and lead to serious adverse health outcomes.
Research indicates that L-arginine may offer a variety of potential benefits when used as a supplement*:
- Enhances athletic performance by increasing nitric oxide in the body, which improves blood flow & oxygenation to muscles.
- Helps to regulate blood pressure
- Is critical in the management of critical illness
- Assists with blood sugar regulation by improving glucose metabolism & insulin sensitivity
- * Healthline, 14/05-2020.
