|
SHOP FOR RELATED PRODUCTS
Arginine is an amino acid that retards the growth of tumors and
cancer by enhancing immune function. It decreases the size and activity
of the thymus gland, which manufactures T lymphocytes (T cells).
Taking a total of 30 grams over the course of the day, one study
showed expanded NK (Natural killer cells) cells' activity by 91
percent. This type of treatment might prove valuable to people afflicted
with AIDS or any other virus or malignant disease.
Supplementation increases the weight of the thymus gland, where
immune function originates. More nitric oxide becomes available
to the gastrointestinal tract, combating infections and overgrowth
of Candida albicans.
Arginine regulates a blood compound called nitric oxide, which
is responsible for regulating blood flow, immune function, communication
among nerve cells, liver function, blood clotting, and even sexual
arousal.
Arginine itself (not the nitric oxide it produces) decreases cholesterol
more effectively than any other amino acid. Daily doses of 6-17
grams a day have lowered LDL cholesterol without reducing the beneficial
HDL cholesterol, without side effects. It also promotes healthy
coronary microcirculation in people with high cholesterol, and deters
the formation of blood clots, which can lead to heart attack or
stroke.
Nitric oxide is key in allowing blood vessels to relax and thereby
controlling high blood pressure. Relaxed arteries mean better blood
flow, and circulation-related conditions such as coronary heart
disease with angina, intermittent claudication (poor leg circulation),
and high blood pressure can benefit from supplementation. Injections
of the amino acid can strengthen the cardiac muscle in people with
congestive heart failure.
As is true with other building blocks of protein, arginine participates
in the maintenance of muscle and lean tissue throughout the body.
It can be converted into ornithine, another amino acid. Its presence
can stimulate the release of certain natural anabolic hormones,
such as growth hormone and insulinlike growth factor.
In one small study of forty-five older people, a daily tonic containing
17 grams of arginine was shown to preserve lean muscle tissue. The
study volunteers who did not receive arginine actually lost lean
muscle tissue.
Nitric oxide is the decisive factor in a man's ability to achieve
and maintain an erection. Taking 2.8 grams of arginine per day,
several studies show, generates enough of the vasodilating compound
to help in the treatment of erectile failure. Arginine also increases
sperm count in males.
Arginine, research has found, is indispensable in restoring protein
balance in severe burn victims. It also speeds wound healing, fractures,
and diabetes related foot ulcers.
L-arginine taken in conjunction with L-ornithine can help stimulate
weight loss.
Despite all of its benefits, arginine is a free radical, and capable
of inflicting oxidative damage. Arginine supplements should be taken
with antioxidant protection, including coenzyme Q10 and lipoic acid,
which will neutralize the potential harm.
Deficiency: Adults, after the age of 30, have an
almost complete cessation of arginine secretion from the pituitary
gland.
Depleting Agents: Physical trauma increases your
need for arginine.
Sources: Arginine is found in nuts, popcorn, carob,
gelatin, chocolate, brown rice, oatmeal, raisins, sunflower and
sesame seeds, whole wheat bread and all protein-rich foods.
Precautions: People with viral infections such as
herpes should not take supplemental arginine, and should avoid foods
rich in arginine and low in the amino acid lysine, as this appears
to promote the growth of certain viruses.
L-Arginine supplements should be avoided by pregnant and lactating
women.
Persons with schizophrenia should avoid amounts over 30 mg daily.
Long-term use, especially of high doses, is not recommended. One
study found that several weeks of large doses may result in thickening
and coarsening of the skin.
Dosage Ranges and Duration of Administration: For
wound healing, helping to restore sexual response, and supporting
the immune system, between 1,500 mg and 4 grams per day. (Atkins,
et al, 1999)
As part of cardiovascular therapy, 15 grams or more a day might
be necessary. (Atkins, et al, 1999) |
