With 60%, glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in our body. It is the only amino acid that contains two nitrogen atoms. This is the decisive factor as to why glutamine promotes muscle building better than other amino acids. It strengthens the immune system and promotes the production of glutathione, the body's most powerful antioxidant.
Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid and/or protein building block that can be produced by the body through other amino acids. Glutamine plays a crucial role in many metabolic processes, such as in the immune, digestive and nervous systems.
Glutamine occurs in particularly high concentrations in the blood plasma and, at 60%, is the most abundant amino acid found in the body and muscles.
The natural suppliers of the amino acid are primarily foods such as meat and fish as well as wheat and dairy products. Quark (curd) also has a particularly high content of glutamine.
The amino acid is heat resistant. Heating the food, therefore, has no effect on the glutamine content. Glutamine is also offered as a dietary supplement.
Glutamine is vital for the body. A deficiency can therefore lead to a damage to the immune system. A too low amount of glutamine can show itself in an increased susceptibility to infections.
This is because glutamine not only builds muscles but also protects the mucous membranes. If there is not enough glutamine, the intestines suffer in particular. Its mucous membranes become permeable and take in more viruses and bacteria.
The performance also drops noticeably if there is a lack of glutamine. A flaccid feeling in the muscles and a lack of concentration also indicate a lack of the amino acid. A deficiency is mainly caused by severe intrusions on the body. Therefore, people have an increased need for glutamine after an operation.
Strength athletes in particular have acknowledged the benefits of glutamine for themselves. This amino acid not only ensures a faster build-up of muscles, but glutamine also supports the muscles in maintaining muscle mass. By additionally taking glutamine, it is possible to build up a lot of muscle mass quickly.
Glutamine is also used more and more to strengthen and build up the immune system. The need for additional glutamine varies. Some people get by with an intake of 4 grams, but especially strength athletes need to take over 20 grams a day.
Since glutamine has a positive effect on the mucous membranes of the small intestine, it is used to treat intestinal diseases. Glutamine regenerates the mucous membranes and protects the intestines from being attacked by harmful bacteria and viruses.