Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid found in the body, and it is called "non-essential" because glutamine can be biosynthesized by your body from other amino acids. Just because it is non-essential does not mean that the body cannot benefit from taking a glutamine powder supplement. It is especially useful for healing the gut lining in cases of leaky gut.

Glutamine is also often used for promoting faster muscle recovery after strenuous exercise and increased lean muscle growth. There are several other benefits reaped from the supplementation of glutamine, let's explore them. 

How Glutamine Impacts Your Body & Well-Being

Glutamine is depleted by stress, physical injuries and inflammation, particularly in areas like the intestine. It promotes muscle growth (anabolism), and stops the catabolism of muscle caused by the stress hormone cortisol. Glutamine can also act as an alternative fuel source for the brain when glucose is not readily available.

Key Health Benefits of Glutamine Powder Supplements

Muscle Building (Anabolic)

The promotion of lean muscle mass by glutamine is its most well-known quality. Athletes have been using glutamine as a performance-enhancing supplement for many years. Medically, glutamine can rebuild lean tissue following periods of convalescence, surgery or after muscle-wasting illnesses.

Food for Gut Cells

Glutamine is the primary fuel source for cells that line the digestive tract (enterocytes). These fragile cells can be rebuilt with L-glutamine after damage from intestinal inflammation like infection (food poisoning), ulcerative colitis, stomach ulcers, chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Liver, Immune & Mood Boosting Benefits

In the liver, glutamine enhances the activity of glutathione, an antioxidant responsible for detoxifying drugs and alcohol. It has been shown to optimize immune function in cases of HIV infection. In the brain, glutamine provides energy to neurons and is helpful in cases of depression, senility and developmental disorders. Glutamine can also reduce cravings for sugar and alcohol.

Exploring Glutamine Powder & Other Supplement Formats

The biologically active and absorbable form of glutamine is L-glutamine. It is commonly found as a powder or in capsule form. Keep glutamine powder dry to prevent its degradation. It is often added to protein powders or other supplements to enhance athletic performance. It is also a component of formulas for the repair of the digestive tract. The dose of L-glutamine depends on the required effect and can range from 1.5 – 12g daily. Clinical doses may be higher as recommended by your healthcare practitioner.