L-Arginine AGK (Alpha-ketoglutarate) Dihydrate

What is L-Arginine?

L-Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that plays a vital role in various physiological processes. While the body can synthesize L-arginine, certain conditions, such as illness or stress, may increase the body's demand for it, making dietary intake more crucial. L-Arginine is involved in protein synthesis, wound healing, immune function, and the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that aids in blood vessel dilation and blood flow regulation.

What are the Benefits of L-Arginine?

L-Arginine offers a range of improvements to health including:

1. Cardiovascular Health: L-Arginine helps produce nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, improves blood flow, and lowers blood pressure.
2. Exercise Performance: L-Arginine can enhance exercise performance by increasing blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles, potentially reducing muscle fatigue.
3. Wound Healing: It aids in collagen synthesis and promotes faster healing of wounds and injuries.
4. Immune Function: L-Arginine supports the immune system by promoting the proliferation of T-cells and other immune responses.
5. Hormone Regulation: It stimulates the release of growth hormone, which can benefit muscle growth and overall metabolic function.

What Research is on L-Arginine?

Research on L-Arginine covers various health conditions and potential therapeutic uses:

1. Cardiovascular Disease: Studies indicate that L-Arginine supplementation can improve endothelial function, reduce blood pressure, and improve symptoms in patients with angina and heart failure.
2. Erectile Dysfunction: Research has shown that L-Arginine can be effective, especially when combined with other supplements like pycnogenol, in improving erectile function.
3. Exercise Performance: Some studies suggest that L-Arginine supplementation can enhance aerobic and anaerobic exercise performance, although results can vary.
4. Wound Healing: Clinical trials have demonstrated that L-Arginine can accelerate wound healing and improve recovery outcomes in surgical and trauma patients.
5. Immune Support: L-Arginine has been studied for its role in enhancing immune function, particularly in critically ill patients or those with infections.
6. Growth Hormone Release: Research indicates that L-Arginine can stimulate the release of growth hormone, which may have implications for athletic performance and aging.

What is the Mechanism of Action for L-Arginine?

L-Arginine acts through several mechanisms:

1. Nitric Oxide Production: L-Arginine is a precursor for nitric oxide, a key molecule in vasodilation. Nitric oxide synthase enzymes convert L-Arginine into nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation.
2. Protein Synthesis: As an amino acid, L-Arginine is directly involved in protein synthesis, aiding in muscle repair and growth.
3. Urea Cycle: L-Arginine is part of the urea cycle, helping to detoxify ammonia by converting it into urea, which is excreted by the kidneys.
4. Immune Modulation: L-Arginine supports immune function by enhancing the proliferation and activity of T-cells, which are crucial for the immune response.
5. Hormone Secretion: It stimulates the release of various hormones, including insulin and growth hormone, which regulate metabolism and growth.

What is the Typical Dosage of L-Arginine?

The dosage of L-Arginine can vary depending on the intended use and individual needs:

1. General Health: Typical dosages range from 2-6 grams per day.
2. Cardiovascular Health: For improving cardiovascular function, dosages of 6-9 grams per day are common.
3. Exercise Performance: Athletes may take 3-6 grams before exercise to enhance performance.
4. Wound Healing: In clinical settings, dosages can range from 15-30 grams per day, often administered in divided doses.

What Foods are Rich in L-Arginine?

L-Arginine is found in a variety of foods, particularly those high in protein:

1. Meat: Red meat, poultry, and pork are excellent sources of L-Arginine.
2. Fish: Seafood, particularly salmon, is rich in L-Arginine.
3. Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt provide good amounts of L-Arginine.
4. Nuts and Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and peanuts are particularly high in L-Arginine.
5. Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas contain significant amounts of L-Arginine.
6. Whole Grains: Oats, wheat germ, and brown rice are good sources.
7. Soy Products: Tofu, tempeh, and soybeans are rich in L-Arginine.
8. Eggs: Provide a moderate amount of L-Arginine.

Including these foods in your diet can help ensure adequate intake of L-Arginine, supporting overall health and specific health conditions.

Tian Y, Zhou Q, Li W, Liu M, Li Q, Chen Q. Efficacy of L-arginine and Pycnogenol ® in the treatment of male erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023 Oct 4;14:1211720. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1211720. PMID: 37908749; PMCID: PMC10614297.

McRae, MP. Therapeutic Benefits of l-Arginine: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2016.06.002). Journal of chiropractic medicine: 2016; 15(3), 184–189. Accessed 3/22/2022.