L-Arginine

L-Arginine is one of the nonessential amino acids, which means the body produces its own supply. However, it is a popular amino acid that many people take even if they are not deficient for its varied therapeutic effects. In fact, many of these therapeutic benefits only happen when it is taken in doses higher than consumed in a normal diet.

L-arginine is a widely available dietary supplement and is publicized as having benefits for patients with hypertension, angina, heart failure and sexual dysfunction. L-arginine powder has the potential to reduce vascular (blood vessel) stiffness. People with chronic heart failure benefit greatly from the combination of L-arginine and exercise. This combination appears to help correct the abnormal function of blood vessels that is seen in chronic heart failure (CHF).

In human breast cancer, supplementation with  L-Arginine amino acid has been reported to increase the quantity and cytotoxic activity of natural killer cells and lymphokine-activated-killer cells. L-arginine is considered an immunonutrient and is added to enteral and parenteral feedings for burn, sepsis and trauma patients.

Source of L-Arginine

Most dietary L-arginine comes from plant and animal proteins. Small amounts of free L-arginine are found in vegetable juices and fermented foods, such as miso and yogurt. Soy protein and other plant proteins are richer in L-arginine than are animal proteins, which are richer in lysine. It is thought that the possible hypocholesterolemic effect of soy protein is due, at least in part, to the higher L-arginine content in this protein.

 L-Arginine Benefits

L-Arginine is needed by the body to synthesize nitric acid. Nitric acid oxide helps arterial walls relax, which allows blood to flow more readily throughout the body. L arginine powder shows promise in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease (including atherosclerosis, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and angina pectoris), in the treatment of some forms of male infertility and some kidney disorders and it is helpful in accelerating wound healing in some circumstances. It has demonstrated some positive immune-modulating and anticancer effects. There is preliminary evidence that it could be helpful in some men with erectile dysfunction and in some others with migraine, liver disease and primary ciliary dyskinesia. There is conflicting but mostly negative evidence related to claims that it can improve exercise performance and promote lean muscle mass.

Other benefits of L-arginine include:

• Reduces healing time of injuries particularly bones when they break as in Osteoporosis


• Arginine reduces the risk of vascular and heart disease


• Natural alternative for Viagra and also works for women


• Builds muscle mass


• Increases bone density


• Supports normal digestion


• Anti-oxidant properties


• Increases energy levels


• Lowering blood pressure


• Reduces risk of heart disease, stroke and cholesterol


• Reduces clogged arteries


• Maintains healthy blood-sugar levels


• Decreasing risk of heart attacks


• Improving erections


• Increases fertility and orgasm in women


• Reduces body fat


• Improves immune function