what are the benefits of l arginine

Benefits of L-arginine

• Circulation: Many of arginine’s benefits stem from its ability to generate nitric oxide which causes smooth muscle cells to relax and expand. ...
• Heart disease: Arginine improves the function of blood vessels and enhances coronary blood flow. ...
• Erectile dysfunction: Insufficient blood flow is a common cause of erectile dysfunction. ...

Full Answer

What are the dangers of L arginine?

• Confusion
• deep or fast breathing with dizziness
• drowsiness
• muscle tremors
• numbness of the feet, hands, and around the mouth
• rapid, deep breathing
• restlessness
• stomach cramps

Does L arginine really work?

One of the most important benefits of l-arginine is its ability to regulate blood pressure thanks to its effect on nitric oxide synthesis. If you have coronary artery disease, chest pains, blocked arteries, high blood pressure, or other heart and blood vessel conditions, L-arginine supplements could be helpful.

What is the best L arginine?

Top L-Arginine Supplements Reviewed

• BulkSupplements Pure L-Arginine. The first one on our list is a single ingredient powder from BulkSupplements. ...
• MuscleTech SX-7 Black Onyx. This one is for those who want their supplements to taste good. ...
• Nutricost. This L-arginine supplement comes in pill form, the first of its kind on the list. ...
• Muscle X Boost. ...

What are L-arginine benefits and side effects?

In clinical trials, arginine has been used safely with minor side effects for up to three months. Possible side effects include abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, and gout . It may also cause a worsening of breathing in people with asthma. Arginine may interact with certain medications that lower blood pressure.

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What does L-arginine do for the body?

It is necessary for making proteins and is commonly used for circulation. L-arginine is converted in the body into a chemical called nitric oxide. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. L-arginine also stimulates the release of growth hormone, insulin, and other substances in the body.

Can you take L-arginine everyday?

Overall, research has shown that L-arginine is safe and generally well tolerated when taken in supplement form, even when taken daily over long periods of 1 year or more ( 14 ).

Does L-arginine work like Viagra?

Erectile Function Because L-arginine relaxes blood vessels, it may help men whose erectile dysfunction (ED) is due to poor blood flow. It may increase the effectiveness of medications like sildenafil (Viagra). Taking L-arginine with medication for ED could cause blood pressure to go too low.

Does L-arginine get you hard?

One small study reported that after one month of treatment with a combination of L-arginine and pycnogenol, only 5% of study participants experienced better erections. But after three months of treatment, nearly 93% of men could experience a normal erection (Stanislavov, 2003).

What is the best time to take L-arginine?

Taking L-arginine L-arginine should be taken at least 3 times a day: in the morning and one each before and after working out. The recommended dose is between 2 to 6 grams. This can be taken before working out to increase blood flow, thus increasing your energy.

Does L-arginine make you bigger?

No scientific evidence shows that L arginine increases girth of the penis. It is a common claim made by companies who sell supplements containing L arginine. In many male sexual health supplements, ingredients like L arginine are overhyped as the “wonder drug” that increases penis girth or length.

How long does it take L-arginine to start working?

How long does it take for l-arginine to work? Depending on your reason for taking l-arginine and which type of amino acid you need, it takes a minimum of 24-hours for the l-arginine to absorb into your body. In some cases, to see the full effects of regular l-arginine treatment, it could take up to three months.

Does L-arginine make you last longer in bed?

Some study results on L-arginine for ED have been promising, like one 2019 study where researchers found that dosages between 1500–5000 milligrams offered significant improvements in ED over placebo, with improved self-reported scores of sexual satisfaction and erectile function submitted by the participants.

Who should not take L-arginine?

L-arginine supplements can worsen allergies and asthma. Use with caution. Don't take L-arginine supplements if you've had cold sores or genital herpes. Too much L-arginine in your system can activate the virus that causes those conditions.

Is it good to take L-arginine before bed?

Some sources say L-arginine helps insomnia because of its effect on the heart. If the heart is functioning properly, we are able to breathe deeply and sleep better. Some people combine arginine and ornithine before bed for HGH release while they sleep.

What are the side effects of L-arginine?

In clinical trials, arginine has been used safely with minor side effects for up to three months. Possible side effects include abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, and gout. It may also cause a worsening of breathing in people with asthma. Arginine may interact with certain medications that lower blood pressure.

How does L-arginine help?

In addition to the potential benefits listed above, some research suggests that L-arginine supplements may be helpful when used in the following ways: 1 Treatment of erectile dysfunction. A 2019 review of 10 studies found that taking arginine supplements in doses ranging from 1.5–5 grams daily significantly improved erectile dysfunction, compared with a placebo or no treatment ( 15 ). 2 Improving blood flow. Some evidence suggests L-arginine supplements may improve blood vessel function and blood flow in specific populations. However, study results are conflicting, and many have found that L-arginine has no benefit ( 16, 17, 18, 19 ). 3 Treating and preventing preeclampsia. Studies have demonstrated that treatment with L-arginine during pregnancy may help prevent and treat preeclampsia, a dangerous condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine ( 20, 21 ).

Why do people take L-arginine?

In addition to the potential benefits and uses above, many people take L-arginine supplements for a variety of other reasons, including reducing the risk of the common cold and boosting weight loss. Yet, many of these purported benefits aren’t backed by scientific research.

Why is arginine important?

Arginine becomes essential when your body is compromised due to conditions like infection and trauma, and your arginine needs significantly increase due to physiologic demands. Under these circumstances, your body can no longer fulfill your arginine needs, which must be met through external sources.

What is the role of arginine in the immune system?

Arginine is necessary for the development of T-cells, which are white blood cells that play central roles in immune response ( 2. Trusted Source.

How much L-arginine is in a daily diet?

The average daily intake of L-arginine from foods is reported to be 4–6 grams ( 4. ). ). Additionally, L-arginine can be obtained by taking supplements. L-arginine supplements are widely available and can be found in powder, liquid, capsule, and tablet form at grocery stores, supplement stores, and online.

What is L-arginine used for?

They’re also used in the clinical setting to treat critically ill people or those with wounds.

Is L-arginine safe for pregnancy?

L-arginine is used in pregnancy under certain circumstances, including preeclamp sia. L-arginine supplementation during pregnancy is typically prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider for a specific reason, such as preeclampsia or the risk of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) ( 22, 26.

Why is L-arginine used for bodybuilding?

Some people use L-arginine to boost the immune system , improve athletic performance , shorten recovery time after surgery, and promote weight loss. L-arginine is also used for bodybuilding. There's also some evidence that L-arginine may help with interstitial cystitis and preeclampsia.

What is L-arginine?

Diet and Interactions. L-arginine is an amino acid that helps the body make proteins. It can be obtained naturally in the diet and is also found in dietary supplement form. Foods rich in L-arginine include plant and animal proteins, such as dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, and nuts. PeopleImages / Getty Images.

Can L-arginine cause herpes?

In addition, L-arginine may aggravate symptoms in people with herpes. L-arginine may interact with certain medications, such as blood pressure medication, diabetes medication, or drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction. If you have diabetes or heart disease, avoid taking L-arginine.

Does L-arginine help with heart problems?

By improving blood flow in the body, some proponents claim that L-arginine may help heart conditions, such as chest pain (angina), high blood pressure, leg cramping and weakness due to obstructed arteries (a condition known as intermittent claudication), and erectile dysfunction (ED).

Does the body have enough arginine?

In most cases, the body maintains an adequate supply of L-arginine on its own. However, severe burns, infections, and injuries can deplete the body's supply of arginine. Under these conditions, it is necessary to ensure proper intake to meet the increased demands. 7 

Does L-arginine help with insulin?

PeopleImages / Getty Images. L-arginine also helps rid the body of ammonia (a waste product) and stimulates the release of insulin. In addition, your body uses arginine to make nitric oxide (a compound that relaxes the blood vessels). Although some studies suggest that L-arginine may benefit certain health conditions, ...

What are the benefits of L-arginine?

Research on the use of L-arginine for specific conditions shows: 1 Angina. Studies suggest that L-arginine might decrease symptoms and improve quality of life in people with a mild to severe form of this type of chest pain. 2 High blood pressure (hypertension). Some research has shown that oral L-arginine can lower blood pressure in healthy people, people with mild blood pressure elevation and diabetes, and in people with a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart (pulmonary hypertension). Infusions of L-arginine also appear to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. 3 High blood pressure during pregnancy. Some studies show that L-arginine infusions may lower blood pressure in pregnant women who develop high blood pressure. 4 Preeclampsia. L-arginine infusions may lower blood pressure in women with this pregnancy complication. Some research shows that taking oral L-arginine might help prevent preeclampsia in pregnant women. 5 Erectile dysfunction. Taking oral L-arginine might improve sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction due to a physical cause. 6 Peripheral arterial disease (PAD). When taken orally or by infusion for a short period of time, L-arginine may improve symptoms and blood flow in people with this circulatory condition.

Is it safe to take L-arginine?

Safety and side effects. Using L-arginine orally or topically is generally considered safe. Oral use of L-arginine might cause: L-arginine isn't recommended for people who have had a recent heart attack due to concerns that the supplement might increase the risk of death.

Is L-arginine safe for erectile dysfunction?

Generally safe. L-arginine is considered to be generally safe. It might be effective at lowering blood pressure, reducing the symptoms of angina and PAD, and treating erectile dysfunction due to a physical cause. However, if you take a blood pressure drug, talk to your doctor before using L-arginine.

Can you take L-arginine topically?

As a supplement, L-arginine can be used orally and topically. It can also be administered intravenously (IV). Because L-arginine acts as a vasodilator, opening (dilating) blood vessels, many people take oral L-arginine to treat heart conditions and erectile dysfunction.

Does L-arginine lower blood pressure?

Some research has shown that oral L-arginine can lower blood pressure in healthy people, people with mild blood pressure elevation and diabetes, and in people with a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart (pulmonary hypertension). Infusions of L-arginine also appear to lower blood pressure ...

Can L-arginine cause asthma?

Airway inflammation or worsening of asthma symptoms. L-arginine isn't recommended for people who have had a recent heart attack due to concerns that the supplement might increase the risk of death. L- arginine can worsen allergies or asthma. Use the supplement with caution if you have these conditions.

Can you take arginine with spironolactone?

Don't take L- arginine with amiloride (Midamor), spironolactone (Aldactone, Carospir) or triamterene (Dyrenium). These medications can increase potassium levels, increasing the risk of developing a higher than normal level of potassium in your blood (hyperkalemia). Sildenafil (Revatio, Viagra). Use of this erectile dysfunction medication ...

Why is L-arginine used in the body?

The body can use the protein to help build muscle and rebuild tissue. As a result, researchers have investigated the effectiveness of L-arginine in the treatment of severe wounds and tissue waste in serious illnesses.

What is L-arginine?

If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. L-arginine is one of many amino acids the body needs to function properly. Like other amino acids, L-arginine plays a role in building protein. The body can use the protein to help build muscle and rebuild tissue.

What is the best source of L-arginine?

The best natural source for L-arginine is food high in protein. For some people, animal proteins, such as red meat (beef), chicken and turkey breast, pork loin, and dairy products, may be the primary source of L-arginine.

What are the side effects of L-arginine?

L-arginine has some potential side effects to be aware of when taking it as a supplement. Some of the more common and benign side effects include: 1 gout 2 bloating 3 abdominal pain 4 airway inflammation 5 diarrhea 6 low blood pressure 7 blood abnormalities 8 allergies 9 worsening of asthma

Where is L-arginine found?

What is L-arginine? L-arginine is found in eggs, fish, and red meat. In addition to building protein, L-arginine releases nitric oxide in the blood. Nitric oxide acts to widen blood vessels in the blood stream, which may help aid certain circulatory conditions.

Is L-arginine safe to take?

Although there are risks associated with L-arginine, most research indicates it is safe for people to take in small doses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not monitor the safety or effectiveness of supplements, so it is important to choose a reputable brand.

Is L-arginine a supplement?

Share on Pinterest. For certain groups of people there may be some risks involved in taking L-arginine as a supplement. L-arginine has some potential side effects to be aware of when taking it as a supplement. Some of the more common and benign side effects include:

Why is arginine important?

That's important because, today, more than 85 million Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease. Deficiencies of arginine are rare.

What foods contain arginine?

Arginine-rich foods include red meat, fish, poultry, wheat germ, grains, nuts and seeds, and dairy products.

What is the amino acid that helps blood vessels relax?

In the body, the amino acid arginine changes into nitric oxide (NO). Nitric oxide is a powerful neurotransmitter that helps blood vessels relax and also improves circulation. Some evidence shows that arginine may help improve blood flow in the arteries of the heart.

Does arginine lower blood pressure?

Arginine may interact with certain medications that lower blood pressure. It may also interact with certain heart medications and drugs such as Viagra that treat erectile dysfunction. Pregnant women and women who are nursing should not take supplements without first talking to their doctor.

Does arginine cause gout?

In clinical trials, arginine has been used safely with minor side effects for up to three months. Possible side effects include abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, and gout. It may also cause a worsening of breathing in people with asthma. Arginine may interact with certain medications that lower blood pressure.

Is arginine safe for heart attacks?

However, the scientific studies are not conclusive enough for experts to make any firm recommendations. Not all studies on arginine have been positive. A 2006 study showed that arginine was not helpful -- and may have been harmful -- for treating heart attacks in combination with standard treatment.

Does arginine help the kidneys?

Helping the kidneys remove waste products from the body. Maintaining immune and hormone function. Dilates and relaxes the arteries. As a natural dietary supplement, arginine has garnered particular attention for its possible heart benefits.

Why is arginine added to formula?

Adding L-arginine to formula seems to prevent inflammation of the digestive tract in premature infants. A total of 6 premature infants need to receive arginine to prevent one instance of digestive tract inflammation. Narrowing of blood vessels that causes poor blood flow to the limbs (peripheral arterial disease).

How long does it take for L-arginine to work?

Research shows that taking L-arginine by mouth or intravenously (by IV) for up to 8 weeks increases blood flow in people with peripheral arterial disease. However, long-term use (up to 6 months) does not improve walking speed or distance in these same people.

What is the chemical that converts L-arginine into?

L-arginine is converted in the body into a chemical called nitric oxide. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. L-arginine also stimulates the release of growth hormone, insulin, and other substances in the body.

Where is L-arginine found?

L-arginine is found in red meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products. It can also be made in a laboratory and used as medicine.

Does L-arginine affect strength?

However, taking L-arginine does not affect strength during exercise. Breast cancer. Early research shows that taking L-arginine before chemotherapy does not improve the response rate in people with breast cancer. Heart failure and fluid build up in the body ( congestive heart failure or CHF).

Does L-arginine help with kidney failure?

Most early research suggests that taking L-arginine by mouth or intravenously (by IV) does not improve kidney function in most people with kidney failure or kidney disease. However, taking L-arginine by mouth might improve kidney function and reverse anemia in elderly people with kidney disease-associated anemia. Heart attack.

Is L-arginine good for ED?

Taking L-arginine with medications for ED might be more effective than taking the medications alone. High blood pressure. There is evidence that taking L-arginine by mouth can reduce blood pressure in healthy people, people with high blood pressure, and people with slightly high blood pressure with or without diabetes.

What is L-Arginine?

L-Arginine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in red meat, poultry, fish and dairy products and can also be supplemented in powder form.

What does L-Arginine do?

Arginine plays a number of biological roles. The main functions appear to be: helping remove waste from the body, maintaining immune and hormone function, and expanding relaxing arteries. As an amino acid it will also contribute to protein synthesis.1

What are the benefits of L-Arginine?

Arginine increases the production of nitric oxide which is a vasodilator. Because of this, arginine supplementation increases the blood flow and oxygen supply to the muscles.

How does L-Arginine work?

In the body, L-Arginine is converted into the chemical nitric oxide. This acts as a vasodilator, relaxing and opening up blood vessels which leads to an increased blood flow. This improved blood flow may lead to numerous health benefits.

Side effects of L-Arginine

Although generally considered safe, high doses of L-Arginine has reported side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea and bloating. It has also been reported that arginine can worsen asthma symptoms. When taking arginine, a GP should be consulted first

L-Arginine dosage

In clinical studies, the dosage used can vary substantial with high doses sometimes used for research purposes.

Take home message

Arginine has a number of potential benefits thanks to its role in nitric oxide production.

What are the side effects of L-arginine?

Like any medication or supplement, L-arginine has several possible side effects. These include: 1 increased risk of bleeding 2 unhealthy imbalance of potassium in the body 3 change in blood sugar levels 4 decreased blood pressure

What grade is L-arginine?

The Mayo Clinic gives L-arginine a C grade when it comes to scientific evidence of successful ED treatment. However, L-arginine is often combined with other supplements, which have different results. Here’s what the research has to say:

Why is NO important for erectile function?

NO is important for erectile function because it helps blood vessels relax, so more oxygen-rich blood can circulate through your arteries. Healthy blood flow to the arteries of the penis is essential for normal erectile function.

Is L-arginine safe for ED?

The results#N#Trusted Source#N#suggest that the supplement, though generally safe and well-tolerated by most men, won’t help restore healthy erectile function. The Mayo Clinic gives L-arginine a C grade when it comes to scientific evidence of successful ED treatment.

What Is L-Arginine Used for?

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Possible Side Effects

Dosage and Preparation

Diet and Interactions