L-arginine is an amino acid that helps the body to build protein. Your body usually makes all the L-arginine it needs. L-arginine is also found in most protein-rich foods, including fish, and dairy products. As a supplement, L-arginine can be used orally and topically. It can also be administered intravenously (IV).
What Are Some Conditions That Can Be Treated By L-Arginine?
Heart Disease – L-arginine might have some use in people with metabolic (e.g., high blood sugar and excess weight) conditions and heart disease. L-arginine might improve blood flow in select groups of people. It may have increased nitric oxide levels in people with metabolic conditions and heart disease.
Lowers Inflammation – Beyond heart health, L-arginine possesses substantial free radical-scavenging abilities due to its effects on the enzyme called superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as other antioxidant mechanisms. L-arginine also positively affects both the central nervous system and immune system functions since in the brain nitric oxide acts as a neurotransmitter and protective agent against outside threats.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) – Taking L-arginine daily seems to improve sexual function in people with ED. Taking L-arginine with medications such as sildenafil and tadalafil might work better than taking either L-arginine or the medication alone.
Improved Immunity – L-arginine is used with omega-3 fish oils and other supplements for reducing the risk of infections (especially respiratory infections or problems with the lungs), improving wound healing, and shortening recovery time following cancer, illness, or surgery.
Fertility – In a systematic review, people assigned females at birth with fertility problems benefited from antioxidants like L-arginine. These antioxidants didn't seem to increase the risk of digestive system-related side effects, miscarriages, multiple births, or ectopic pregnancies.
What Are Some Side Effects of L-Arginine?
Oral use of L-arginine might cause; Nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, bloating, gout, and headache. L-arginine can worsen asthma.
How Much L-Arginine Can I Take?
The suggested dosages of L-arginine supplements depend a lot on the condition it’s being used to treat. For generally healthy adults who are looking to prevent inflammation and benefit from better circulation, about one gram daily (1,000 milligrams) is usually the recommended dose.
Are There Drug Interactions?
Possible interactions include:
Blood pressure medication – L-arginine might lower blood pressure in people who have high blood pressure. Combining the use of L-arginine with a blood pressure drug, herb or supplement might increase the risk of blood pressure becoming too low.
Blood thinners – L-arginine might slow blood clotting. Taking L-arginine along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Diabetes medicine – L-arginine might decrease blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. If you're taking diabetes drugs, herbs, or supplements, your dosage might need to be adjusted.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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