L- Arginine The Facts / Cardio Cocktail The best way to get the proper daily dose of L-Arginine

What is it and where does it come from?

Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid. It is a building block of protein that performs a myriad of physiological functions. It is a known precursor of the gas nitric oxide [N02].

Arginine is an amino acid that the body cannot make naturally. Therefore it is important to consume foods that are rich in arginine

Arginine is found in high concentrations in nuts and seeds like peanuts and almonds. It can also be found in chocolate and raisins.

What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?

Arginine is necessary for the execution of many physiological processes. These physiological processes include hormone secretion, an increase in growth hormone output, the removal of toxic waste products from the body, and immune system defenses.2

Because Arginine is a precursor of nitric oxide [which is responsible for vasodiolation ] it is often used for supporting healthy sexual function.

Recently, dietary supplements containing Arginine have become popular due to Arginine's nitric oxide producing ability, its ability to scavenge free radicals, as well as its ability to signal muscle cells, release growth hormone, support healthy cholesterol, and enhance fat metabolism. Arginine helps regulate salt levels in the body. 

Arginine is also believed to be crucial for muscle growth due to its vasodilating abilities, as well as its ability to participate in protein synthesis. 

Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?

Everyone. Populations in particular need of arginine are growing children, infants, athletes, the obese or overweight, and the elderly. In adult populations Arginine is considered to be a non-essential amino acid. For children, by contrast, Arginine is essential to the defense and development of the adolescent immune system.

 Persons suffering from injury can benefit from supplemental arginine, as demand for arginine is increased during times of bodily injury and repair. Persons suffering from low sexual health may also benefit from use of Arginine due to its vasodilating properties. Arginine will act to increase the diameter of blood vessels, thereby allowing increased blood flow to reach constricted areas.

Arginine presents benefits to hard training athletes. Supplementing with Arginine may boost the immune system, thereby allowing the athlete to train harder and avoid the detrimental effects of minor health problems associated with overtraining.

Athletes who are discontinuing the use of androgenic or anabolic steroids may benefit from supplemental arginine because steroids often lead to hypertension, and the accumulation of bad cholesterol. Arginine has been shown to help reverse these conditions.

Due to Arginines ability to increase growth hormone levels, its ability to encourage lipid oxidization, its ability to lower blood pressure, and its ability to decrease arterial plaque, supplemental arginine may prove beneficial for obese persons.

How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?