Glutamine

What does it do? Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid (protein building block) in the body and is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid. Glutamine is converted to glucose when more glucose is required by the body as an energy source. It serves as a source of fuel for cells lining the intestines. Without it, these cells waste away. It is also used by white blood cells and is important for immune function. In animal research, glutamine has anti-inflammatory effects. Glutamine in combination with N-acetyl cysteine promotes the synthesis of glutathione, a naturally occurring antioxidant that is believed to be protective in people with HIV infection.¹ Evidence indicates that intravenous glutamine supplementation increases the survival rate of critically ill people.²

Glutamine has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Pre- and post-surgery health
	Athletic performance (for prevention of post exercise infection in performance athletes) HIV support (in combination with arginine and HMB) Immune function (for post-exercise infection prevention in endurance athletes) Infection (for prevention of post exercise infection in performance athletes)
	Alcohol withdrawal support Gastritis HIV support Peptic ulcer
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient? Few healthy people are glutamine deficient, in part because the body makes its own. During fasting, starvation, cirrhosis, critical illnesses in general, and weight loss associated with AIDS and cancer, however, deficiencies often develop.

How much is usually taken? Healthy people do not need to supplement with glutamine. A physician should be consulted for the supplemental use of glutamine for the support of serious health conditions.

Are there any side effects or interactions? No significant side effects have been reported in glutamine studies.

Are there any drug interactions? Certain medications may interact with glutamine. Refer to the drug interactions safety check for a list of those medications.

References:

1. Robinson MK, Hong RW, Wilmore DW. Glutathione deficiency and HIV infection. Lancet 1992;339:1603–4.

2. Griffiths RD. Outcome of critically ill patients after supplementation with glutamine. Nutrition 1997;13:752–4.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.