Know Your Bodybuilding Supplement - L-Arginine
Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that the body cannot
make naturally. It is found in nuts, seeds, chocolate and
raisins.
Arginine is used by the body in the execution of many important
physiological processes including hormone secretion, output of
growth hormone, removal of toxins from the body and enhancement
of the immune system. It is also a precursor of nitric oxide
which vasodiolates vessels in the body. For this reason arginine
is often used to treat conditions such as angina, high blood
pressure, cardiac disease, sexual dysfunction and infertility.
Recent research has also highlighted arginine’s ability to
scavenge free radicals, remove bad cholesterol, enhance fat
metabolism and regulate salt levels.
There are several reasons why arginine appeals to bodybuilders:
1. It prevents the retention of water under the skin thus
minimizing bloating and helping to create a ripped appearance.
2. It helps the body to retain nitrogen that is essential to the
muscle building process.
3. Its vasodilating abilities support muscle growth.
4. It enhances protein synthesis.
5. It helps to boost the immune system allowing harder training
and minimizing the minor illnesses that come from overtraining.
With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness
and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and
increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached.
Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are
fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The
manufacturer’s instructions should be followed in all instances.
About the author:
Rick Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com
website that provides guidance and information to athletes at
all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding
Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this
article.