For years, athletes have known that amino acids are the building blocks from which proteins can be manufactured in the body. Glutamine, the most abundant amino acid in the body, makes up more than 60% of the total intramuscular amino acid pool. Glutamine plays an important role in many bodily functions, including proper immune system function, construction of DNA, and regulation of protein synthesis and degradation.
Although the body manufactures large amounts of glutamine, it may not produce it fast enough to supply normal bodily functions while supporting adequate muscle repair. For this reason, glutamine is considered a “conditionally essential” amino acid. In circumstances when additional stress is placed on the body (such as exercise induced stress or rigorous athletic activity) glutamine becomes essential for muscle recovery and repair. Supplemental glutamine may help the body replenish stores, aiding in qu
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