Arginine (L-Arginine), Sources, Function, Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects

Arginine, or also known as L-arginine, is one of the 20 amino acids found in proteins. In contrast to other types of amino acids, the amino acid is considered a semi-essential amino acid because it can be produced by the body itself, there are times when supplements and foods may be needed, such as when someone is seriously injured or experiencing a particular disease. In addition, newborns is not able to make their own supply of these substances, so it consumes arginine from outside the body is very important, especially when he was a newborn.

Food Containing Arginine (Arginine Sources)

As was mentioned earlier that arginine is a semi-essential amino acid, which means that our body sometimes require arginine from outside the body. Where can we obtain arginine ?. Of course, it's been a lot of arginine supplements we can buy in the market. In addition, we can also obtain amino acids by eating some foods such as turkey, chicken, pumpkin seeds, soybeans, peanuts, beans and lentils.

Functions and Benefits of Arginine

Arginine is an amino acid that has functions in maintaining the health of the liver, skin, joints, and muscles. Arginine also has benefits in strengthening the immune system, regulate hormones and blood sugar, and increase male fertility. Additionally, arginine can also improve circulation, treat impotence and heart disease. Arginine also has the function of stimulating the immune system by increasing output of T lymphocytes (T-cells) of thymus gland.

Arginine helps detoxify the liver by neutralizing the effects of ammonia and other toxic substances in the body. It is necessary for the generation of urea, which is is required to remove toxic ammonia from the body during urination.

These amino acids also play an important role in maintaining the health of all connective tissues of the body, especially the muscles. Arginine helps the body in processing creatine, which is a natural substance that helps build muscle mass. Additionally arginine also assist in processing nitrogen, a chemical needed for muscle metabolism. Additionally, arginine can help to lower the fat in the body so that it can help you lose weight. Arginine also serves to overcome and repair the damaged tissue and can prevent the occurrence of arthritis, and many more functions and benefits of these type of amino acids.

Dosage And Side Effects Of Arginine

Arginine is an amino acid that is safe for consumption as well as for women who are pregnant. What is the appropriate dose of arginine for us consumption ?. In general, safe dose is 2-3 grams per day, even though sometimes used in the treatment of up to 15 grams. However, taking supplements of arginine in the long run is not recommended because it will cause thickening and hardening of the skin. As for people suffering from kidney and liver disease are advised not to consume arginine supplements unless authorized doctors, and people who have herpes or schizophrenia should avoid altogether because arginine supplementation may aggravate the disease.

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