Arginine is a non-essential amino acid, i.e. it is not essential in normal situations, but it can be essential in specific situations because it intervenes in various metabolic processes. Like other amino acids, it is found in protein-rich foods, such as ham.
In addition, it is also common to find arginine in the form of dietary supplements, which can be used to alleviate physical and mental fatigue and can be found in pharmacies, health stores or online.
The main functions of this amino acid in the body are
In addition, it can also be used to promote an increase in muscle mass, as it is a substrate for creatinine formation. It also helps repair the intestine after trauma or resection. Learn more about arginine functions.
The main foods rich in arginine are:
Despite improved immune system and wound healing, some studies have shown that eating foods rich in arginine can lead to recurrent herpes attacks or even worsen symptoms by promoting replication of the virus in the body. However, more studies are needed to test this relationship.
For this reason, the recommendation is that people with the virus reduce their consumption of these foods and increase their consumption of lysine-rich foods. Know the foods of origin of lysine.
Supplementation with this amino acid is widely used by athletes, as arginine can increase blood supply to muscles, improve performance and increase muscle mass. However, scientific studies are contradictory, as some show that this amino acid can increase blood flow during exercise and others cannot.
The standard dose normally indicated is 3 to 6 grams of arginine before exercise.