L-Arginine Benefits and Side Effects
Burn Fat for Maximum Weight Loss
L-Arginine is an amino acid that does a number of things in your body like increasing your immune system and help wounds heal faster. But, the main reason we bodybuilders have an interest in this amino because it elevates the secretion of insulin and growth hormone which are known for their of muscle building properties.
For example, when combined with a weight training program the effect of arginine on growth hormone levels taking 500 mg of arginine and ornithine twice per day, five days per week, shown a significant decrease in body fat was achieved after only five weeks.
More Benefits of L-Arginine
One of the most important benefits of L-Arginine is
that it increases blood flow so your heart can pump more blood to your muscles. It is the
precursor to nitric oxide (NO2), which keeps your blood vessels dilated (vasodilator),
allowing the heart to obtain sufficient oxygen and provide that “rock hard
pump”.
Foods high in l-arginine include dairy products, meat, poultry, and fish. Nuts and chocolate also have substantial amounts of this amino acid. In general, the body should make enough arginine, even when it is deficient in your diet.
However, you may want to consider using an arginine supplement if you ’re training hard. Since there are many different brands that produce this amino, we have provided a listing below of the top supplements used to enhance muscle growth.
Recommended L-Arginine Supplements
 |
Syntrax Nitrous - It is considered a supercharged muscle injection approach for pumps, energy, and recovery. Nitrous, a custom-engineered product that overcomes the downfalls of every other Nitric Oxide product on the market. |
 |
NOW L-Arginine It is a popular amino acid for its amazing nitrogen retention ability. But mostly it facilitates muscle mass gain while limiting fat storage, because it keeps fat alive in the system and uses it. It's key in weight control. |
 |
Higher Power AAKG Powder AAKG is arginine alpha-ketoglutarate in a sustained release formula which is pH buffered to ensure maximum absorption. Arginine released into the bloodstream will dramatically increase nitrix oxide production. |
 |
Twinlab L-Arginine It is necessary for the execution of many physiological processes. These physiological processes include the removal of toxic waste products from the body, and immune system defenses. |
Also check out Arginine Ethyl Ester.
L-Arginine Side Effects
So far, it has been free of noticeable side effects. On the other hand, longer-term studies are needed to verify its safety.
Just to give you an example, there have been only two case reports of severe allergic reactions following IV administration of l-arginine. But, allergic reactions have not been reported after taking it by pills or powder form.
Some doctors believe that people with herpes should NOT take l-arginine supplements,
because of the possibility that it may fuel replication of the virus.
Giving out large amounts of arginine to animals has been found both to promote and to
obstruct cancer growth. In initial research, high intake (30g / day) has increased cancer
cell growth in humans. Then again, in people with cancer, it has been found to stimulate
the immune system. I guess we can conclude that it remains uncertain whether it is
hazardous or helpful for people with cancer.
Despite its major benefits, it has raised skepticism among some people. Many have drawn negative conclusions because it has not yet proven to result in major developments, particularly in activities relating to the athletics.
L-Arginine Dosage
Most people do not need to take extra arginine. Take a small dosage for a week, and then make a note of the benefits and the side effects. Increase the dosage until the benefits are maximized and the side effects minimized. Eventually the two will meet and you will hit the optimal dose. This process is comparable to "receptor mapping" for bodybuilders who utilize insulin and steroids.
Special Note: Several protein powders on the market today are loaded with amino acids this includes l-arginine. So make sure you pay attention to how much you are taking from other sources. If you do not feel at ease following the method above, it is always best to follow the directions prescribed on the products label or talk to your doctor. The best dosages remain unknown and to vary depending upon the individual.
More Amino Acid Supplements
Read more on BCAA - Branched Chain Amino Acids for muscle building.
- Alanine
- Arginine
- Aspartic Acid
- Carnitine
- Cysteine
- Dopa
- Glutamic Acid
- Glutathione
- Histidine
- Isoleucine*
- Leucine *
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Ornithine
- Phenylalanine
- Taurine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
- Tyrosine
- Valine *
