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What are the benefits of L-arginine for men?
L-arginine is among the essential amino acids used by the body for protein synthesis.L-arginine is a form of arginine, a non-essential amino acid used by the body to synthesize proteins. Why is it called non-essential? It is called nonessential because the body of an adult person can synthesize it, so there is little need for supplementation. It is found in most protein-rich foods, so deficiencies are rare.
How does L-arginine amino acid work?
From the food, this amino acid is absorbed into circulation. The body converts this amino acid into nitric oxide, a chemical that relaxes the blood vessels and smoothens the blood flow. So, it is helpful to improve circulation, fight high blood pressure and improve breathing (in COVID-19 patients).
How does L-arginine benefit you?
L-arginine has numerous health benefits. Besides producing nitric oxide, it also helps the body to produce the necessary proteins. Other benefits of it are as follows.
Blood pressure and cholesterol
It supports a healthy heart and lowers the incidence of cardiovascular disease risk factors. A randomized clinical trial published in the F1000 Research found that L-arginine supplementation improved the lipid profile (triglycerides and cholesterol) and lowered the fasting blood sugar. The study involved 52 young people who received a daily L-arginine supplementation of 2000 mg. However, it was not noted to reduce blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic pressure).
Wound healing
It can also help wound healing. An earlier study noted that it promoted wound healing in diabetic rats. This study highlighted its potential for wound healing in diabetics. It has anti-ageing effects.
Sexual health benefits
Lower levels of L-arginine can cause the narrowing of the blood vessels in the penis, causing erectile dysfunction (ED). L-arginine supplementation (alone or in combination with other ED drugs, e.g., sildenafil) is effective in treating ED.
It promotes the overall sexual health of men. A 2010 study published in the Italian Journal of Urology and Nephrology noted that it improves sexual functions (higher sexual satisfaction index-SSI and higher sperm motility).
A 2011 study published in Urology noted that L-citrulline (a precursor of L-arginine) improves erection hardness from a score of 3 (mild erectile dysfunction) to a score of 4 (normal erection) in 50% of people. The study group involved older men (average age of more than 56 years). So is can be useful in treating an age-related decline in sexual functions.
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It relieves chest pain.
An earlier study in 1997 noted that L-arginine supplementation improves chest pain. It was noted that it improved respiratory efficiency by reducing the age-related dysfunction of respiratory membranes. Athletes often use L-arginine supplements to improve their performance in both anaerobic and aerobic exercises.
A 2015 study noted that 6g daily supplementation of L-arginine increased the plasma nitrate concentration and improved the running economy.
Growth hormone test
L-arginine is used to stimulate the pituitary gland to cause release of growth hormone. This test measures whether the children are producing enough growth hormone or not. This test is done by administering the L-arginine in the blood and measuring the increase in growth hormone levels.
Improving the general performance
The L-arginine supplementation improves the overall metabolism of the body. A 2020 meta-study noted that it promotes energy metabolism and cell growth. It was also found to lower the plasma's fat oxidation levels, fatty acids, and ammonia levels.
As it boosts the secretion of growth hormone, it contributes to muscle hypertrophy and increases muscle mass (that is why bodybuilders use it). It also improves the efficiency of respiration and carbohydrate metabolism.
Peripheral arterial disease
As it is known to lower blood pressure, its supplementation is very effective in treating peripheral arterial disease.
Reducing the risk of type-2 diabetes
What is type diabetes-2 diabetes? It is a chronic medical condition in which the body fails to utilize glucose properly, resulting in exceptionally higher glucose levels in the blood. Along with lowering blood pressure, studies have found it helpful in lowering blood glucose.
A recent study noted that 5g daily supplementation for 2 weeks helps older women with type 2 diabetes. It also improves insulin sensitivity.
Healthy epithelium
The epithelium is the membrane lining of the blood vessels. A healthy epithelium means a lower risk of stroke and heart attack. The L-arginine supplementation is known to improve epithelial health.
Some other benefits
Besides these proven benefits, some benefits of L-arginine are known, but they are not proven yet.
- Anxiety and depression management
- Improvement of breathing and relieving the asthma symptoms
What could be the possible side effects of L-arginine supplements?
It is advisable to consult the nutritionist before choosing any L-arginine supplements. Why should you consult the nutritionist? Consulting is recommended because it will help you choose a good brand and prevent overuse. The safety and effectiveness of the food supplements are usually not monitored by the drug regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA), so the choice of a good brand is very important. The overuse will predispose you to the problems, e.g.,
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Hypotension
- Tumorigenesis
- Kidney damage (in case of long-term use).
How much should L-arginine be taken daily?
The recommended dose depends on age, health status, gender, activity levels, and pregnancy status. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommends 2.5-6 grams per day in many (3-4) doses of equal size.
However, athletes use as many as even higher doses. However, it is wise to consult a nutritionist before going for higher doses.
Conclusion
L-arginine is a non-essential amino acid that is produced by the body naturally. However, you can go for dietary supplementation for added benefits. L-arginine may be taken orally or through injections. Regardless of the route of administration, it can promote your overall health. The dietary supplementation should, however, be done after consulting healthcare professionals as the human body naturally produces it.
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