Arginine is a non-essential amino acid that influences several metabolic factors important to athletes. Arginine is most famous for it’s role in the stimulation of human growth hormone (Somatotropin). Potential benefits of increased growth hormone levels include a reduction in body fat, improved healing and recovery, and increased muscle mass.
A second important function of arginine is it’s role as a precursor in Creatine production. Creatine combines with phosphate and is an important energy source during high-intensity sports like weightlifting and sprinting. Ingestion of 4 grams per day of arginine & glycine has shown to cause an increase in body Creatine stores.
A third function of arginine is it’s role in ammonia detoxification. It is an intermediate in the urea cycle. It converts ammonia to the waste product urea, which can then be excreted from the body. Ammonia is toxic and it’s levels increase with exercise.
Furthermore, arginine has been found to increase wound healing and function in the immune system.
About the Author:
Muhammad Najib is an internationally certified Personal Trainer who also specializes in Sports Nutrition, Sports Conditioning, Corrective Exercise and Performance Enhancement.
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