What is glutamine
Glutamine is one of the non-essential, proteinogenic amino acids and is the most abundant unbound amino acid in the human body. Proteinogenic amino acids are required for protein biosynthesis, which uses our genetic information (DNA) to produce proteins from simple amino acids. Only L-glutamineis found in proteins. Bacterial cell walls and components of some antibiotics and fungal toxins have incorporated D-glutamine. The nomenclature "L" or "D" (or more currently "R - S") refers to the spatial arrangement of certain atoms of a molecule. Glutamine is synthesized from glutamic acid and ammonia, with production taking place particularly in muscle cells. In medicine, glutamic acid is often referred to as glutamate. The latter is sometimes used as a food additive (E 620), which is mostly derived from the salts of glutamic acid.
Where does glutamine occur?
The molecule is a central metabolite in the metabolism of all living organisms and is found in protein-bound and free form in animals, fungi, plants and bacteria. Our muscles consist of around 60% of this amino acid! According to medicine, we should consume between 3 - 6 g of glutamine daily . Beef, turkey, wheat, spirulina, peanuts, quark, cottage cheese, salmon and milk are particularly high in the substance. Certain life circumstances make additional supplementation necessary. According to medical studies, glutamine supplements have shown positive results when used in endurance sports, intensive short-term exercise, injuries, operations and burns . It is therefore hardly surprising that L-glutamine is an integral part of training and bodybuilding.
What functions does the molecule have in the human body?
Glutamine, which is produced from glutamic acid, is primarily responsible for water retention in the cells and increases cell volumeduring physical exertion. This provides the body with an anabolic signal that promotes protein and glycogen formation. Glycogen is the carbohydrate storage form of glucose. The liver and muscles are among the most important storage sites. In addition to its anabolic (muscle-building) effect, the vital substance also has anti-catabolic properties, which counteract the breakdown of muscle tissue during physical exertion. It also improves the body's ability to regenerate during sleep. Glutamine also plays an important role in nerve and intestinal function. It increases the production of the neurotransmitter GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid), which serves as an important inhibitory messenger substance in the brain. As glutamine supplies the nitrogen and carbon necessary for cell growth and division, it strengthens the immune systemamong other things. For this reason, it is often usedafter operations, accidents or chronic illnesses. Medical studies show that glutamine improves the healing of burnt skin and slows down general skin ageing. As an energy supplier, it also nourishes the intestinal mucosa.
In the human body,
Did you know
The amino acid taurine, which is often mixed as an ingredient in energy drinks, also has a performance-enhancing effect in sport. However, another study caused quite a stir. In 2023, researchers used an animal experiment to provethat taurine extended the life of mice by more than 15%. If you want to know more about this exciting study or the molecule, please read our Taurine article.
Benefits of supplementing with glutamine
Glutamine is responsible for a variety of metabolic processes and the body's water balance. It is one of the amino acids with the highest plasma concentration. This is influenced by sporting activities. After intensive training, glutamine levels are reduced by up to 30%, with the portion contained in the muscle being released first. This can lead to muscle breakdown. Additional supplementation brings clear benefits.
- Prevents muscle mass loss and increases muscle growth
- Delays muscle fatigue
- Supports physical regeneration
- Energy supplier for immunocompetent cells
- Regulates the acid-base balance
- Tightens the skin
- Strengthens hair follicles
- Nourishes the stomach and intestinal mucosa
- Counteracts the storage of fat
Effect on longevity
Glutamine is an important amino acid that plays a role in many bodily processes. It is known for its positive effect on the immune system, muscle metabolism and regeneration after training. These properties could have an indirect effect on longevity by helping to maintain a healthy body and prevent disease.
Some studies have shown that glutamine can strengthen the immune system, which is particularly important as a strong immune system helps to ward off disease and therefore increase life expectancy. In addition, the amino acid can support intestinal health, which is also important for general health and well-being.
Glutamine's ability to shorten recovery time after exercise could also contribute to longevity. Regular and effective exercise is a key factor in good health and longevity, and glutamine could help achieve this goal.
