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L-Glutamine is the most abundant naturally occurring, non-essential amino acid in the human body and one of the few amino acids that directly cross the blood-brain barrier. It is necessary for rapidly dividing cells, including those of the GI and immune system. It is used as an energy source in mitochondria and is the precursor of the brain neurotransmitter glutamate. Glutamine is also needed for optimal nucleotide biosynthesis and protein synthesis.

It can be helpful to someone challenged with muscle loss or determined to help maintain optimal immune function while under heavy stress.

People who do heavy exercising can lower their glutamine levels, causing stress to their body and immune systems. There is evidence that undertaking prolonged, exhaustive exercise, like running a full marathon or intensive training sessions, can reduce blood concentrations of glutamine and increase the risk of infection. For that reason supplementing with glutamine can be an important part of a serious athlete’s program.

Glutamine is an important fuel for some immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages, that may have specific immunostimulatory effects.