What Is L- Arginine?
L-Arginine is an amino acid that’s made naturally in the body. When taking L-Arginine as a supplement, it’s important to know how to manage the timing of it. This is why we are discussing when to take L-Arginine. Proper timing can make all the difference in the world.
We need L-Arginine to create proteins. While L-Arginine can be obtained through our diet (red meat, poultry, fish, dairy), it’s commonly consumed as a supplement for bodybuilding, migraines, inflammation, and more. L-Arginine’s main benefit is that it relaxes our blood vessels. L-Arginine, also known as arginine, works by being converted into the body with the help of a chemical called nitric oxide. Nitric oxide widens the blood vessels which improves the blood flow. Arginine also stimulates the release of insulin, a growth hormone, as well as other substances in our bodies.
When To Take L-Arginine
Arginine is a common supplement in the bodybuilding world because of the support it provides to our muscles. It can support muscle growth as well as increase the muscle recovery process. It is also used for combating a wide array of diseases and can protect your long term health. If you are in need of any of these benefits, this is the supplement for you.
If you are adding arginine to your diet for its bodybuilding benefits, it is best to consume the supplement about an hour before your workout. If you are not looking for bodybuilding benefits, arginine can be consumed with your first meal.
The typical recommended dosage for L-arginine is 10-20 grams. It can be taken as a tablet, a dissolvable powder, intravenously, or injected. This is convenient because it leaves you with options!
What Are The Benefits Of L-Arginine?
- Helps build muscle
- Increase energy levels
- Maintains blood sugar levels
- Increase immune system function
- Increases fertility rates in women
- Improves blood flow
- Reduces clogged arteries
- Improves sperm count in men
- Detoxifies liver
- Maintains balance of nitrogen
- Promotes fat loss
- Improves bone density
- Provides antioxidant properties
- Reduces alcohol toxicity levels
- Reduces blood pressure
- Reduces risk of vascular and heart disease
- Reduces stroke and cholesterol risks
- Reduces body fat
- Can remove excess ammonia
- Increases rate of wound healing
What Are The Risks Of L-Arginine?
L-Arginine is naturally found in foods that most people consume daily, such as cottage cheese, nuts, seeds, chocolate, and raisins. Because of this, it has no side effects when consumed naturally through your diet. However, it’s not impossible for someone consuming the supplement to see some side effects. This is why it’s important to speak with a doctor before adding arginine to your diet. While the risks are not serious they are still important to note. The risks include:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Gout
- Low back pain
- Headache
- Onset restless leg syndrome
- Numbness
- Vomiting
- Asthma can become more intense
- Allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, swelling, wheezing, etc.)
Top Brands Of L-Arginine
- NOW Foods
- Alpine Nutrition
- Potent Organics
- Jarrow Formulas
- Naturo Nitro Maximus
- Pure Nutrition
- Cardio Heart Health
- Cardio Health Formula
- Carlson Labs
L-Arginine can be a very beneficial supplement for men and women who are focused on bodybuilding and leading active lifestyles. If you are planning on supplementing with L-Arginine, remember to note when and how to take L-Arginine.
