Glutamine
Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid (protein building block) in the body and is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid. Glutamine is converted to glucose when more glucose is required by the body as an energy source. It serves as a source of fuel for cells lining the intestines. Without it, these cells waste away. It is also used by white blood cells and is important for immune function.
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Pre- and Post-Surgery Health | 20 grams daily |  [3 stars] Studies have shown that using glutamine-enriched formulas after surgery increased immune cell activity, shortened hospital stays, improved nutritional status, and reduced infections. |
Athletic Performance and Post-Exercise Infection | 5 grams after exercise, then again two hours later |  [2 stars] The amino acid glutamine may benefit athlete’s immune systems. Double-blind trials giving athletes glutamine reported 81% having no subsequent infection compared with 49% in the placebo group. |
Diarrhea | 136 mg per pound of body weight | [2 stars] Glutamine appears to be beneficial for diarrhea by improving the health of the intestinal lining, rather than by affecting the immune system. |
HIV and AIDS Support and Preservation of Lean Body Mass (Arginine, HMB) | 1.5 grams of HMB, 7 grams of L-glutamine, and 7 grams of L-arginine twice per day | [2 stars] The combination of glutamine, arginine, and HMB may prevent loss of lean body mass in people with AIDS-associated wasting. |
Immune Function and Post-Exercise Infection | Refer to label instructions | [2 stars] A study giving athletes glutamine, an amino acid important for immune system function, reported significantly fewer infections with glutamine. |
Alcohol Withdrawal (L-Tyrosine, Multivitamin, Phenylalanine, L-Tryptophan) | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] In double-blind research, alcoholics treated with L-tyrosine combined with DLPA (D,L-phenylalanine), L-glutamine, prescription L-tryptophan, plus a multivitamin had reduced withdrawal symptoms and decreased stress.
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Alcohol Withdrawal | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Animal and double-blind human research has shown that this amino acid reduces desire for alcohol and anxiety levels. |
Gastritis | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] The amino acid glutamine is a main energy source for cells in the stomach and may increase blood flow to this region. |
HIV and AIDS Support | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] The amino acid glutamine is needed for the synthesis of glutathione, an important antioxidant that is frequently depleted in people with HIV and AIDS. |
Peptic Ulcer | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Glutamine, an amino acid, is the main energy source for cells that line the small intestine and stomach. Supplementing with it may help people overcome peptic ulcers. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.