Glutamine is an essential amino acid for the human body. Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins and are involved in many aspects of body function. In particular, they have important functions in the maintenance of intestinal cells, the immune system and muscle tissues. Although the body is usually able to synthesize its own glutamine, in some cases (e.g. serious illness, trauma, surgery or heavy exercise) the need may increase and external supplements may be used.
Decreased glutamine levels can often be observed in cases of excessive exercise, burns, surgical interventions or infections. Normally, a healthy individual can produce enough glutamine naturally and get it through a balanced diet. However, in special cases or needs, supplements may be used; however, decisions regarding the use of these supplements should be made in consultation with a health professional.
What Does Glutamine Do?
Glutamine plays important roles in the body as an amino acid. Its main functions can be listed as follows:
Muscle Protein Synthesis: It plays an important role in the growth and repair of muscle tissues. By participating in protein synthesis processes, it can help strengthen and rebuild muscle cells.
Gut Health: Intestinal cells use it as an energy source. This may contribute to the protection and repair of the intestinal mucosa, which supports intestinal health.
Immune System Support: It acts as an energy source for immune cells. It can help strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to infections.
Acid-Base Balance: May stabilize pH levels by regulating acid-base balance in the body.
Carbohydrate Metabolism: It plays an effective role in carbohydrate metabolism. The body can use glutamine to meet its energy needs.
May Help in Stress Situations: In stressful situations, such as excessive exercise, surgery or serious illness, the body may increase its need for glutamine. Supplements can help reduce the negative effects associated with these situations.
Injury and Burn Healing: It can play an important role in the healing of injuries and burns. It can support the repair and healing of tissues.
How to Use Glutamine?
The use of glutamine varies depending on the individual's health status, goals and the reason for taking the supplement. Supplements, usually available in powder or capsule form, can have daily dosages of between 5 and 20 grams and can be taken before or after exercise, with a meal, or at night before bed.
This dosage and timing can be adjusted according to the individual's goals and intended use. It is important to consult a health professional before using glutamine supplements, taking into account health status, special conditions and the ingredients they contain.
Paying attention to hydration and combining it with a balanced diet can increase the effectiveness of glutamine supplements. Since everyone's needs are different, it is important to seek expert advice to ensure appropriate use for personal circumstances and requirements.
When to Use Glutamine?
The use of glutamine varies depending on the individual's goals, health status and personal needs. Common times of use:
Pre-Workout: Pre-workout use has the potential to increase muscle protein synthesis and energy levels. This can help support performance during training.
Post Workout: Taking it post-workout can help accelerate muscle repair and reduce exercise-induced stress. It may also contribute to supporting the immune system after training.
Before Bed: Taking glutamine at night before going to bed can support muscle repair during the night and help maintain energy levels in the body.
On an Empty Stomach or with a Meal: Can be taken on an empty stomach or with a meal. When taken on an empty stomach, absorption may be accelerated; when taken with food, it may interact with other nutrients.
Stressful Situations: Using supplements during periods of serious illness, trauma, surgery or intense exercise can help support the body and compensate for possible losses.
Since everyone's needs are different, the timing of use may vary according to individual preferences and purposes. It is important to consult with a health professional before use to determine the appropriate dosage and timing.
What are the Symptoms of Glutamine Deficiency?
Glutamine deficiency can often occur as a result of the body's inability to meet its needs or as a result of special circumstances. Symptoms of glutamine deficiency can be the following:
- In case of deficiency, muscle weakness and loss may occur.
- The immune system may be weakened and susceptibility to frequent infections may increase.
- Intestinal problems, tenderness and irritation.
- There may be a general feeling of tiredness and weakness.
- Wound healing may slow down.
- The acid-base balance in the body may be disturbed, leading to a feeling of imbalance.
- Sensitivity, dryness or pain in the mouth and throat.
- Concentration problems, memory problems and mental fuzziness may occur.
What are the harms of glutamine?
Although glutamine supplements are generally considered safe, there are some potential harms associated with overuse or under certain circumstances. High doses of glutamine can cause gastrointestinal problems, kidney problems, and effects that have been suggested to exacerbate symptoms in individuals with bipolar disorder.
Caution may also be needed for people who may have allergic reactions to glutamine and for those taking certain medications. Drug interactions and individual health conditions may require consultation with a healthcare professional before using glutamine supplements.