Glutamine is a semi-essential or conditionally essential amino acid. This means that the body can produce sufficient glutamine under normal circumstances. However, there are times when the body cannot do so. These include metabolic stress situations such as trauma, cancer, sepsis and burns. Under such conditions, it is very important to supplement one’s diet with adequate amounts of glutamine because our body uses it for making proteins, reproducing DNA and as an alternate source of fuel for the brain. L-glutamine alpha-ketoglutarate is a dietary supplemental form of glutamine which combines alpha ketoglutaric acid with the amino acid.
Glutamine is also the most abundant amino acid in muscle tissue, providing energy to cells. Thus, when one exercises intensely, say 3 to 4 times per week, glutamine levels can plummet significantly and delay the time it takes for the muscles to recover. Glutamine is especially essential in prolonged exercise, such as marathons and triathlons. Yet, it has been shown that supplementation of L-glutamine alpha-ketoglutarate is more beneficial than administering the amino acid alone. The reason for this is that, unlike glutamine, L-glutamine alpha-ketoglutarate can bypass the gut and be shuttled directly muscle cells rather than being absorbed by the small intestines. When glutamine is stored in the muscle cell, it produces a cell volumizing effect which works synergistically with the one creatine produces. Glutamine stored in the muscle has been shown to promote muscle synthesis, have a positive effect on nitrogen balance and reduce muscle breakdown following intense physical activity.
Often sold in powder form, L-glutamine alpha-ketoglutarate can be consumed by mixing it with protein drinks. It is also sold as softgels in varying amounts. To achieve maximum effects, consume immediately prior or after a workout or athletic event.
References: (1) http://www.nutriline.org/article/61 (2) http://www.vitaminstuff.com/glutamine.html
