What is glutamine?
Glutamine is one of the non-essential, proteinogenic amino acids and is the most frequently 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. We only find L-glutamine in proteins. Bacterial cell walls and components of some antibiotics and fungal toxins have D-glutamine built into them. The nomenclature “L” or “D” (or more recently “R – S”) refers to the spatial arrangement of certain atoms in a molecule. Glutamine is synthesized from glutamic acid and ammonia, with production taking place particularly in the 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 usually made up of the salts of glutamic acid.
Where is glutamine found?
The molecule represents a central metabolite in the metabolism of all living beings and is found protein-bound as well as in free form in animals, fungi, plants and bacteria. Our muscles consist of around 60% of this amino acid! According to medicine, we should take between 3 – 6 g of glutamine daily . Beef, turkey, wheat, spirulina, peanuts, cottage cheese, cottage cheese, salmon and milk have a particularly high substance content. Certain living conditions make additional supplementation necessary. According to medical studies, positive results of glutamine supplementation have been achieved when used in endurance sports, intense short-term exercise, injuries, operations and burns positive results. It is therefore little surprise that L-glutamine is an integral part of training and bodybuilding.
What functions does the molecule have in the human body?
The glutamine produced from glutamic acid is primarily responsible for water retention in the cells and leads to an increase in cell volume during 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 locations. In addition to the 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 physical 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 in the brain. Since glutamine provides, among other things, the nitrogen and carbon that are necessary for cell growth and division, it strengthens the immune system. For this reason, it is often used after operations, accidents or chronic illnesses. Medical studies show that glutamine improves the healing of burned skin and slows general skin aging. As an energy supplier, it also nourishes the intestinal mucosa.
In the human body, Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) and glutamine are involved in energy metabolism in the mitochondria involved.
Did you know?
The amino acid Taurine, which is often mixed as an ingredient in energy drinks, also has a performance-enhancing effect in sports. However, there was a great stir due to another study. In 2023, researchers were able to use an animal experiment to prove that taurine extended the lives of mice by more than 15%. If you want to know more about this exciting study or the molecule, please read our Taurine Article through.
Benefits of glutamine supplementation
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 loss. Additional supplementation brings clear benefits.
- Prevents muscle mass loss and increases muscle growth
- Delays muscle fatigue
- Supports physical regeneration
- Supplier of energy for immunocompetent cells
- Regulates the acid-base balance
- Tightens the skin
- Strengthens hair follicles
- Nourishes the stomach and intestinal mucosa
- Counteracts fat storage
Effect on longevity
Glutamine is an important amino acid that plays a role in many body processes. It is known for its positive effect on the immune system, muscle metabolism and regeneration after training. These properties could indirectly affect longevity by helping maintain a healthy body and preventing disease.
Some studies have shown that glutamine can strengthen the immune system, which is particularly important because a strong immune system helps ward off disease and therefore increases life expectancy. Additionally, the amino acid can support gut health, which is also important for overall health and well-being.
Glutamine's ability to shorten recovery time after exercise may also contribute to longevity. Regular and effective exercise is a key factor in good health and longevity, and glutamine could help achieve this goal.
