Arginine is a non-essential amino acid because it is not required in the diet and can be manufactured by the body from other amino acids.  Just because it is non-essential does not mean that the body cannot benefit from its supplementation. Arginine has been shown to support immune function, promote muscle growth, increase growth hormone and act as a precursor to nitros oxide (NOS).

Because of this, it is often found in sport supplements to promote muscle building, in immune supplements to promote tissue healing, and in supplements to support sexual performance. Arginine has also been found useful for high cholesterol, liver detoxification, obesity, aging, arthritis and blood sugar imbalances.

Arginine is Anabolic: Muscle Building and Tissue Repair
Arginine plays an important role in the metabolism of protein and nitrogen containing compounds.  Thus, it has an important role in muscle building and regaining muscle after periods of illness or inactivity.  Arginine is involved in the production of polyamines and other compounds that promote the growth of all body tissues, including muscle. This also allows arginine to be used for intestinal diseases, wounds and other conditions that require repair of tissue (Eg. Post surgically).  When arginine in combination with ornithine is taken before strength training, the combination increases the level of growth hormone present in the bloodstream. Since growth hormone is responsible for anabolic tissue growth in the body, co-supplementation can help further promote muscle growth.

Arginine is a Precursor to Nitric Oxide and What That Means
Arginine can be broken down by the body to form nitric oxide (NO2), a chemical that dilates blood vessels and increases circulation. Nitric oxide is the chemical produced when people take nitroglycerine for chest pain as it increases blood flow to the heart muscle.  The dilation of blood vessels allows the body to get more oxygen to its tissues for enhancing athletic activity, alleviating impotence, improving sensation for both sexes, and increasing male sexual performance.  Arginine can be used as an alternative to the athletic supplement NO2. In fact, arginine has been used to prevent the development of tolerance to nitroglycerine medication in angina sufferers.

Immune Booster
Arginine enhances the activity of the thymus; the gland that produces T cells for the immune system.  T cells are important for anti-viral (like HIV) and anti-cancer activity.  Thus, arginine can be used indirectly as an anti-viral agent that may help prevent or treat the common cold and other viral infections.

What are the different forms?
The biologically active form of arginine is L-arginine.  It is commonly found as a powder or in capsules as well as in combination products for improved circulation (NO2), immune function, tissue healing, and sport formulas.  A newer supplemented form of arginine bound to alpha ketoglutarate (AKG-arginine) is now being used in sport formulas. When digested, the two parts separate and are absorbed. The arginine performs the functions listed above promoting anabolic muscle growth, while the remaining alpha ketoglutarate (AKG) helps to improve peak athletic performance by reducing problems caused by the build-up of ammonia in the tissues. Thus, for athletic performance, AKG-arginine supplementation may be preferable.

How can I take it?
Arginine often comes in a powder form or in capsules and the recommended dose is between 3 and 6g orally per day. Take amino acid supplements on an empty stomach (at least 1/2 hour before or after a meal) to maximize their absorption.  If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, take it with an amino acid complex to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids. In particular, arginine supplementation causes loss of the amino acid lysine from the body. It is recommended that you co-supplement lysine if you take arginine on an ongoing basis.

Important Information
Pregnant or nursing women should not use arginine.  Do not use arginine if you have herpes, schizophrenia, current Pseudomonas infection, decreased ability to clot, or a history of stroke.  Consult your healthcare practitioner before using arginine if you are on medications for: high blood pressure, Viagara, or nitroglycerine as combination with arginine may cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure.