Glutamine is an amino acid, one of the building blocks of proteins, and it serves several important functions in the body:
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Muscle Repair and Growth: Glutamine plays a crucial role in muscle repair and growth, making it popular among athletes and bodybuilders as a supplement to aid in recovery after intense workouts.
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Immune Support: Glutamine is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. It helps maintain the health and integrity of the intestinal lining, which is a key barrier against pathogens. During times of stress or illness, the body's demand for glutamine increases, which may necessitate supplementation.
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Gut Health: Glutamine is the primary fuel for the cells lining the digestive tract. It helps maintain the integrity of the intestinal mucosa and supports the repair of damaged tissues, thus promoting gut health.
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Energy Production: Glutamine is a significant source of energy for various cells in the body, including immune cells and intestinal cells. It can be converted into glucose when needed, particularly during times of stress or intense physical activity.
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Nitrogen Transport: Glutamine is involved in the transport of nitrogen between organs and tissues, which is essential for various physiological processes, including the synthesis of other amino acids and the removal of waste nitrogen from the body.
Overall, glutamine is essential for maintaining overall health, supporting immune function, promoting muscle growth and repair, and preserving gut integrity.