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Should I take it on an emty stomach or with food? Does it make a difference with what kind of food I take it with...anything that prevents absorption?
L-glutamine
- Thread starter Metro Girl
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Metro Girl
New member
the bottle says to take on an empty stomach ???
JJFigure
New member
Well, I take it with my protein, but you're right. I just read last night it (l-glutamine) should be taken on an empty stomach for best absorption. However, glutamine peptides have a much higher absorption rate and can be taken with a meal. I'll be switching to glutamine peptides after I finish up with my current batch of l-glutamine.
NubianBeauty
Banned
JJ beware of the bitterness!
Glutamine abstracts
Author Dechelotte, P; Darmaun, D; Rongier, M; Hecketsweiler, B; Rigal, O; Desjeux, J F
Institution Institut Nationale de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale Unite 290, Hopital Saint-Lazare, Paris, France.
Title Absorption and metabolic effects of enterally administered glutamine in humans.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY. vol. 260, no. 5 Pt 1 (1991 May): G677-82.
Abstract To assess absorption and metabolic effects of enterally delivered glutamine, a total of 10 healthy subjects received perfusions of natural L-glutamine at graded infusion rates (ranging from 0 to 126 mmol/h; n = 2-8 subjects at each rate) along with a nonabsorbable marker (polyethylene glycol) through a double-lumen nasojejunal tube. Perfusions were administered after an overnight fast during three consecutive 1- or 2.5-h periods and in a randomized order. In eight subjects, continuous intravenous infusion of D-[6,6-2H2]glucose, L-[1-13C]leucine, and L-[15N]alanine was simultaneously performed. Glutamine was nearly quantitatively absorbed over the 30-cm study segment; estimated Km and Vmax of glutamine absorption were 2.48 and 2.32 mmol/min over the 30-cm study segment. Enteral glutamine administration induced 1) a dose-dependent increase in plasma glutamine level; 2) a rise in the plasma level and appearance rate (Ra) of alanine (from 191 +/- 42 to 213 +/- 51 mumols.kg-1.h-1, P less than 0.05, for 0 and 46.8-mmol/h glutamine infusion rates, respectively) and in plasma levels of glutamate, citrulline, aspartate, and urea; 3) a decline in plasma free fatty acid and glycerol levels; and 4) no change in leucine or glucose Ra. We conclude that glutamine is efficiently absorbed by human jejunum in vivo and may directly inhibit lipolysis, whereas it neither affects proteolysis nor glucose production in healthy postabsorptive humans.
Candow, D G; Chilibeck, P D; Burke, D G; Davison, K S; Smith-Palmer, T
Institution College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
Effect of glutamine supplementation combined with resistance training in young adults.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY AND OCCUPATIONAL PHYSIOLOGY. vol. 86, no. 2 (2001 Dec): 142-9.
Abstract The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of oral glutamine supplementation combined with resistance training in young adults. A group of 31 subjects, aged 18-24 years, were randomly allocated to groups (double blind) to receive either glutamine (0.9 g x kg lean tissue mass(-1) x day(-1); n = 17) or a placebo (0.9 g maltodextrin x kg lean tissue mass(-1) x day(-1); n = 14 during 6 weeks of total body resistance training. Exercises were performed for four to five sets of 6-12 repetitions at intensities ranging from 60% to 90% 1 repetition maximum (1 RM). Before and after training, measurements were taken of 1 RM squat and bench press strength, peak knee extension torque (using an isokinetic dynamometer), lean tissue mass (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) and muscle protein degradation (urinary 3-methylhistidine by high performance liquid chromatography). Repeated measures ANOVA showed that strength, torque, lean tissue mass and 3-methylhistidine increased with training (P < 0.05), with no significant difference between groups. Both groups increased their 1 RM squat by approximately 30% and 1 RM bench press by approximately 14%. The glutamine group showed increases of 6% for knee extension torque, 2% for lean tissue mass and 41% for urinary levels of 3-methylhistidine. The placebo group increased knee extension torque by 5%, lean tissue mass by 1.7% and 3-methylhistidine by 56%. We conclude that glutamine supplementation during resistance training has no significant effect on muscle performance, body composition or muscle protein degradation in young healthy adults.
Krzywkowski, K; Petersen, E W; Ostrowski, K; Kristensen, J H; Boza, J; Pedersen, B K
Institution Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre and Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
Effect of glutamine supplementation on exercise-induced changes in lymphocyte function.
Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. vol. 281, no. 4 (2001 Oct): C1259-65.
Journal Info Abbreviation: Am J Physiol Cell Physiol.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible role of glutamine in exercise-induced impairment of lymphocyte function. Ten male athletes participated in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover study. Each athlete performed bicycle exercise for 2 h at 75% of maximum O(2) consumption on 2 separate days. Glutamine or placebo supplements were given orally during and up to 2 h postexercise. The trial induced postexercise neutrocytosis that lasted at least 2 h. The total lymphocyte count increased by the end of exercise due to increase of both CD3(+)TCR alpha beta(+) and CD3(+)TCR gamma delta(+) T cells as well as CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(+) natural killer (NK) cells. Concentrations of CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells lacking CD28 and CD95 on their surface increased more than those of cells expressing these receptors. Within the CD4(+) cells, only CD45RA(-) memory cells, but not CD45RA(+) naive cells, increased in response to exercise. Most lymphocyte subpopulations decreased 2 h after exercise. Glutamine supplementation abolished the postexercise decline in plasma glutamine concentration but had no effect on lymphocyte trafficking, NK and lymphokine-activated killer cell activities, T cell proliferation, catecholamines, growth hormone, insulin, or glucose. Neutrocytosis was less pronounced in the glutamine-supplemented group, but it is unlikely that this finding is of any clinical significance. This study does not support the idea that glutamine plays a mechanistic role in exercise-induced immune changes.
Svanberg, E; Moller-Loswick, A C; Matthews, D E; Korner, U; Lundholm, K
Institution Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, University of Goteborg, Goteborg, Sweden.
The effect of glutamine on protein balance and amino acid flux across arm and leg tissues in healthy volunteers.
CLINICAL PHYSIOLOGY. vol. 21, no. 4 (2001 Jul): 478-89.
BACKGROUND: Glutamine is important in nitrogen transportation and the physiological control of acid-base regulation. In addition, it has been assumed that glutamine regulates protein balance in skeletal muscles based on findings in both experimental and clinical studies. However, little information on glutamine and its effect on protein dynamics in normal individuals is available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether glutamine improves protein balance and uptake of various indispensable amino acids across peripheral tissue in healthy individuals. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Standard primed constant infusions of L-[ring-2H5]phenylalanine and [ring 3,3-2H2]tyrosine (2 micromol kg(-1) h(-1)) were performed after overnight fast in five healthy male volunteers before and during infusions of a standard and a glutamine/tyrosine enriched amino acid solution. Flux measurements of amino acids (AA) including 3-methylhistidine, glucose, lactate and free fatty acids (FFA) were performed across arm and leg tissues. RESULTS: Infusion of the standard AA solution (0.2 g N kg(-1) day(-1)) increased the net uptake of individual amino acids, but provision of the enriched solution (0.4 g N kg(-1) day(-1)) with increased amounts of glutamine and tyrosine seemed to compete unfavourably with the net uptake of other key amino acids as methionine and phenylalanine, which are indispensable in muscles for protein synthesis. Increased flux of amino acids across peripheral tissues did not influence on flux of glucose, free fatty acid and lactate. CONCLUSIONS: Glutamine provision did neither stimulate protein synthesis nor attenuate breakdown of either globular or myofibrillar proteins in skeletal muscles of healthy volunteers.
Author Dechelotte, P; Darmaun, D; Rongier, M; Hecketsweiler, B; Rigal, O; Desjeux, J F
Institution Institut Nationale de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale Unite 290, Hopital Saint-Lazare, Paris, France.
Title Absorption and metabolic effects of enterally administered glutamine in humans.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY. vol. 260, no. 5 Pt 1 (1991 May): G677-82.
Abstract To assess absorption and metabolic effects of enterally delivered glutamine, a total of 10 healthy subjects received perfusions of natural L-glutamine at graded infusion rates (ranging from 0 to 126 mmol/h; n = 2-8 subjects at each rate) along with a nonabsorbable marker (polyethylene glycol) through a double-lumen nasojejunal tube. Perfusions were administered after an overnight fast during three consecutive 1- or 2.5-h periods and in a randomized order. In eight subjects, continuous intravenous infusion of D-[6,6-2H2]glucose, L-[1-13C]leucine, and L-[15N]alanine was simultaneously performed. Glutamine was nearly quantitatively absorbed over the 30-cm study segment; estimated Km and Vmax of glutamine absorption were 2.48 and 2.32 mmol/min over the 30-cm study segment. Enteral glutamine administration induced 1) a dose-dependent increase in plasma glutamine level; 2) a rise in the plasma level and appearance rate (Ra) of alanine (from 191 +/- 42 to 213 +/- 51 mumols.kg-1.h-1, P less than 0.05, for 0 and 46.8-mmol/h glutamine infusion rates, respectively) and in plasma levels of glutamate, citrulline, aspartate, and urea; 3) a decline in plasma free fatty acid and glycerol levels; and 4) no change in leucine or glucose Ra. We conclude that glutamine is efficiently absorbed by human jejunum in vivo and may directly inhibit lipolysis, whereas it neither affects proteolysis nor glucose production in healthy postabsorptive humans.
Candow, D G; Chilibeck, P D; Burke, D G; Davison, K S; Smith-Palmer, T
Institution College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
Effect of glutamine supplementation combined with resistance training in young adults.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY AND OCCUPATIONAL PHYSIOLOGY. vol. 86, no. 2 (2001 Dec): 142-9.
Abstract The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of oral glutamine supplementation combined with resistance training in young adults. A group of 31 subjects, aged 18-24 years, were randomly allocated to groups (double blind) to receive either glutamine (0.9 g x kg lean tissue mass(-1) x day(-1); n = 17) or a placebo (0.9 g maltodextrin x kg lean tissue mass(-1) x day(-1); n = 14 during 6 weeks of total body resistance training. Exercises were performed for four to five sets of 6-12 repetitions at intensities ranging from 60% to 90% 1 repetition maximum (1 RM). Before and after training, measurements were taken of 1 RM squat and bench press strength, peak knee extension torque (using an isokinetic dynamometer), lean tissue mass (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) and muscle protein degradation (urinary 3-methylhistidine by high performance liquid chromatography). Repeated measures ANOVA showed that strength, torque, lean tissue mass and 3-methylhistidine increased with training (P < 0.05), with no significant difference between groups. Both groups increased their 1 RM squat by approximately 30% and 1 RM bench press by approximately 14%. The glutamine group showed increases of 6% for knee extension torque, 2% for lean tissue mass and 41% for urinary levels of 3-methylhistidine. The placebo group increased knee extension torque by 5%, lean tissue mass by 1.7% and 3-methylhistidine by 56%. We conclude that glutamine supplementation during resistance training has no significant effect on muscle performance, body composition or muscle protein degradation in young healthy adults.
Krzywkowski, K; Petersen, E W; Ostrowski, K; Kristensen, J H; Boza, J; Pedersen, B K
Institution Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre and Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
Effect of glutamine supplementation on exercise-induced changes in lymphocyte function.
Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. vol. 281, no. 4 (2001 Oct): C1259-65.
Journal Info Abbreviation: Am J Physiol Cell Physiol.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible role of glutamine in exercise-induced impairment of lymphocyte function. Ten male athletes participated in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover study. Each athlete performed bicycle exercise for 2 h at 75% of maximum O(2) consumption on 2 separate days. Glutamine or placebo supplements were given orally during and up to 2 h postexercise. The trial induced postexercise neutrocytosis that lasted at least 2 h. The total lymphocyte count increased by the end of exercise due to increase of both CD3(+)TCR alpha beta(+) and CD3(+)TCR gamma delta(+) T cells as well as CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(+) natural killer (NK) cells. Concentrations of CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells lacking CD28 and CD95 on their surface increased more than those of cells expressing these receptors. Within the CD4(+) cells, only CD45RA(-) memory cells, but not CD45RA(+) naive cells, increased in response to exercise. Most lymphocyte subpopulations decreased 2 h after exercise. Glutamine supplementation abolished the postexercise decline in plasma glutamine concentration but had no effect on lymphocyte trafficking, NK and lymphokine-activated killer cell activities, T cell proliferation, catecholamines, growth hormone, insulin, or glucose. Neutrocytosis was less pronounced in the glutamine-supplemented group, but it is unlikely that this finding is of any clinical significance. This study does not support the idea that glutamine plays a mechanistic role in exercise-induced immune changes.
Svanberg, E; Moller-Loswick, A C; Matthews, D E; Korner, U; Lundholm, K
Institution Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, University of Goteborg, Goteborg, Sweden.
The effect of glutamine on protein balance and amino acid flux across arm and leg tissues in healthy volunteers.
CLINICAL PHYSIOLOGY. vol. 21, no. 4 (2001 Jul): 478-89.
BACKGROUND: Glutamine is important in nitrogen transportation and the physiological control of acid-base regulation. In addition, it has been assumed that glutamine regulates protein balance in skeletal muscles based on findings in both experimental and clinical studies. However, little information on glutamine and its effect on protein dynamics in normal individuals is available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether glutamine improves protein balance and uptake of various indispensable amino acids across peripheral tissue in healthy individuals. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Standard primed constant infusions of L-[ring-2H5]phenylalanine and [ring 3,3-2H2]tyrosine (2 micromol kg(-1) h(-1)) were performed after overnight fast in five healthy male volunteers before and during infusions of a standard and a glutamine/tyrosine enriched amino acid solution. Flux measurements of amino acids (AA) including 3-methylhistidine, glucose, lactate and free fatty acids (FFA) were performed across arm and leg tissues. RESULTS: Infusion of the standard AA solution (0.2 g N kg(-1) day(-1)) increased the net uptake of individual amino acids, but provision of the enriched solution (0.4 g N kg(-1) day(-1)) with increased amounts of glutamine and tyrosine seemed to compete unfavourably with the net uptake of other key amino acids as methionine and phenylalanine, which are indispensable in muscles for protein synthesis. Increased flux of amino acids across peripheral tissues did not influence on flux of glucose, free fatty acid and lactate. CONCLUSIONS: Glutamine provision did neither stimulate protein synthesis nor attenuate breakdown of either globular or myofibrillar proteins in skeletal muscles of healthy volunteers.
Someone please explain to me:
1) The proven benefits of oral glutamine ingestion in healthy exercising humans, consuming adequate protein, with references please, at least one.
2) Blood glutamine levels after oral ingestion of equal amounts of L-glutamine or one of the peptides (i.e., l-alanyl-l-glutamine or l-glycyl-l-glutamine) and if there is a difference, what is the cost effectiveness of the peptide vs L-glutamine. I need a journal ref on this one as well.
W6
1) The proven benefits of oral glutamine ingestion in healthy exercising humans, consuming adequate protein, with references please, at least one.
2) Blood glutamine levels after oral ingestion of equal amounts of L-glutamine or one of the peptides (i.e., l-alanyl-l-glutamine or l-glycyl-l-glutamine) and if there is a difference, what is the cost effectiveness of the peptide vs L-glutamine. I need a journal ref on this one as well.
W6
Agreed Wilson6, but I still wish someone would do those types of studies on very lean, muscular dieters on submaintenance calories.........until this is done I will continue to take L-glutamine during the last 4 weeks of a pre-competition diet as 'insurance'. This is not a recommendation to anyone else to do the same, just an explanation of the almost pathological state of mind I get into when I've been dieting too long!
"but I still wish someone would do those types of studies on very lean, muscular dieters on submaintenance calories."
I agree with that as precontest almost approaches a clinically debilitated state where there might be some merit for glutamine, but during other times I don't see much use for it.
The problem is, no one cares about physique competitors, that's why I never see that research being done.
W6
I agree with that as precontest almost approaches a clinically debilitated state where there might be some merit for glutamine, but during other times I don't see much use for it.
The problem is, no one cares about physique competitors, that's why I never see that research being done.
W6
You should just bring it back to your store and ask for a refund. cause unless you take that for your immune system, then forget about it. Glutamine is effective at high dosage (100-150 g) and given IV. Yes IV ! Cause this way most of it will make it through (was once told by a doc a good 90% instead of 10% for oral). Oral glutamine is a waste. Period.
JJFigure
New member
Immune System Benefits
1. Immune response to heavy exertion.
Nieman DC
Department of Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina 28608, USA.
Epidemiological data suggest that endurance athletes are at increased risk for upper respiratory tract infection during periods of heavy training and the 1- to 2-wk period following race events. There is growing evidence that, for several hours subsequent to heavy exertion, several components of both the innate (e.g., natural killer cell activity and neutrophil oxidative burst activity) and adaptive (e.g., T and B cell function) immune system exhibit suppressed function. At the same time, plasma pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines are elevated, in particular interleukin-6- and interleukin-1-receptor antagonist. Various mechanisms explaining the altered immunity have been explored, including hormone-induced trafficking of immune cells and the direct influence of stress hormones, prostaglandin-E2, cytokines, and other factors. The immune response to heavy exertion is transient, and further research on the mechanisms underlying the immune response to prolonged and intensive endurance exercise is necessary before meaningful clinical applications can be drawn. Some attempts have been made through chemical or nutritional means (e.g., indomethacin, glutamine, vitamin C, and carbohydrate supplementation) to attenuate immune changes following intensive exercise.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Does glutamine have a role in reducing infections in athletes?
Castell LM, Poortmans JR, Newsholme EA
University Department of Biochemistry, Oxford, UK.
There is an increased risk of infections in athletes undertaking prolonged, strenuous exercise. There is also some evidence that cells of the immune system are less able to mount a defence against infections after such exercise. The level of plasma glutamine, an important fuel for cells of the immune system, is decreased in athletes after endurance exercise; this may be partly responsible for the apparent immunosuppression which occurs in these individuals. We monitored levels of infection in more than 200 runners and rowers. The levels of infection were lowest in middle-distance runners, and highest in runners after a full or ultramarathon and in elite rowers after intensive training. In the present study, athletes participating in different types of exercise consumed two drinks, containing either glutamine (Group G) or placebo (Group P) immediately after and 2 h after exercise. They subsequently completed questionnaires (n = 151) about the incidence of infections during the 7 days following the exercise. The percentage of athletes reporting no infections was considerably higher in Group G (81%, n = 72) than in Group P (49%, n = 79, p < 0.001). i.e. Less athletes, supplementing with glutamine, became infected after extreme exertion than in the placebo group.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. The effects of oral glutamine supplementation on athletes after prolonged, exhaustive exercise.
Castell LM, Newsholme EA; Nutrition 1997 Jul-Aug;13(7-8):738-42 Related Articles, Books, LinkOut
University Department of Biochemistry, Oxford, United Kingdom.
Athletes undergoing intense, prolonged training or participating in endurance races suffer an increased risk of infection due to apparent immunosuppression. Glutamine is an important fuel for some cells of the immune system and may have specific immunostimulatory effects. The plasma glutamine concentration is lower after prolonged, exhaustive exercise: this may contribute to impairment of the immune system at a time when the athlete may be exposed to opportunistic infections. The effects of feeding glutamine was investigated both at rest in sedentary controls and after exhaustive exercise in middle-distance, marathon and ultra-marathon runners, and elite rowers, in training and competition. Questionnaires established the incidence of infection for 7 d after exercise: infection levels were highest in marathon and ultra-marathon runners, and in elite male rowers after intensive training. Plasma glutamine levels were decreased by approximately 20% 1 h after marathon running. A marked increase in numbers of white blood cells occurred immediately after exhaustive exercise, followed by a decrease in the numbers of lymphocytes. The provision of oral glutamine after exercise appeared to have a beneficial effect on the level of subsequent infections. In addition, the ratio of T-helper/T-suppressor cells appeared to be increased in samples from those who received glutamine, compared with placebo.
Performance benefits
1. Increased plasma bicarbonate and growth hormone after an oral glutamine load.
Welbourne TC; Am J Clin Nutr 1995 May;61(5):1058-61
Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University College of Medicine, Shreveport 71130, USA.
An oral glutamine load was administered to nine healthy subjects to determine the effect on plasma glutamine, bicarbonate, and circulating growth hormone concentrations. Two grams glutamine were dissolved in a cola drink and ingested over a 20-min period 45 min after a light breakfast. Forearm venous blood samples were obtained at zero time and at 30-min intervals for 90 min and compared with time controls obtained 1 wk earlier. Eight of nine subjects responded to the oral glutamine load with an increase in plasma glutamine at 30 and 60 min before returning to the control value at 90 min. Ninety minutes after the glutamine administration load both plasma bicarbonate concentration and circulating plasma growth hormone concentration were elevated (by a mean of 430%). These findings demonstrate that a surprisingly small oral glutamine load is capable of elevating alkaline reserves as well as plasma growth hormone.
1. Immune response to heavy exertion.
Nieman DC
Department of Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina 28608, USA.
Epidemiological data suggest that endurance athletes are at increased risk for upper respiratory tract infection during periods of heavy training and the 1- to 2-wk period following race events. There is growing evidence that, for several hours subsequent to heavy exertion, several components of both the innate (e.g., natural killer cell activity and neutrophil oxidative burst activity) and adaptive (e.g., T and B cell function) immune system exhibit suppressed function. At the same time, plasma pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines are elevated, in particular interleukin-6- and interleukin-1-receptor antagonist. Various mechanisms explaining the altered immunity have been explored, including hormone-induced trafficking of immune cells and the direct influence of stress hormones, prostaglandin-E2, cytokines, and other factors. The immune response to heavy exertion is transient, and further research on the mechanisms underlying the immune response to prolonged and intensive endurance exercise is necessary before meaningful clinical applications can be drawn. Some attempts have been made through chemical or nutritional means (e.g., indomethacin, glutamine, vitamin C, and carbohydrate supplementation) to attenuate immune changes following intensive exercise.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Does glutamine have a role in reducing infections in athletes?
Castell LM, Poortmans JR, Newsholme EA
University Department of Biochemistry, Oxford, UK.
There is an increased risk of infections in athletes undertaking prolonged, strenuous exercise. There is also some evidence that cells of the immune system are less able to mount a defence against infections after such exercise. The level of plasma glutamine, an important fuel for cells of the immune system, is decreased in athletes after endurance exercise; this may be partly responsible for the apparent immunosuppression which occurs in these individuals. We monitored levels of infection in more than 200 runners and rowers. The levels of infection were lowest in middle-distance runners, and highest in runners after a full or ultramarathon and in elite rowers after intensive training. In the present study, athletes participating in different types of exercise consumed two drinks, containing either glutamine (Group G) or placebo (Group P) immediately after and 2 h after exercise. They subsequently completed questionnaires (n = 151) about the incidence of infections during the 7 days following the exercise. The percentage of athletes reporting no infections was considerably higher in Group G (81%, n = 72) than in Group P (49%, n = 79, p < 0.001). i.e. Less athletes, supplementing with glutamine, became infected after extreme exertion than in the placebo group.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. The effects of oral glutamine supplementation on athletes after prolonged, exhaustive exercise.
Castell LM, Newsholme EA; Nutrition 1997 Jul-Aug;13(7-8):738-42 Related Articles, Books, LinkOut
University Department of Biochemistry, Oxford, United Kingdom.
Athletes undergoing intense, prolonged training or participating in endurance races suffer an increased risk of infection due to apparent immunosuppression. Glutamine is an important fuel for some cells of the immune system and may have specific immunostimulatory effects. The plasma glutamine concentration is lower after prolonged, exhaustive exercise: this may contribute to impairment of the immune system at a time when the athlete may be exposed to opportunistic infections. The effects of feeding glutamine was investigated both at rest in sedentary controls and after exhaustive exercise in middle-distance, marathon and ultra-marathon runners, and elite rowers, in training and competition. Questionnaires established the incidence of infection for 7 d after exercise: infection levels were highest in marathon and ultra-marathon runners, and in elite male rowers after intensive training. Plasma glutamine levels were decreased by approximately 20% 1 h after marathon running. A marked increase in numbers of white blood cells occurred immediately after exhaustive exercise, followed by a decrease in the numbers of lymphocytes. The provision of oral glutamine after exercise appeared to have a beneficial effect on the level of subsequent infections. In addition, the ratio of T-helper/T-suppressor cells appeared to be increased in samples from those who received glutamine, compared with placebo.
Performance benefits
1. Increased plasma bicarbonate and growth hormone after an oral glutamine load.
Welbourne TC; Am J Clin Nutr 1995 May;61(5):1058-61
Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University College of Medicine, Shreveport 71130, USA.
An oral glutamine load was administered to nine healthy subjects to determine the effect on plasma glutamine, bicarbonate, and circulating growth hormone concentrations. Two grams glutamine were dissolved in a cola drink and ingested over a 20-min period 45 min after a light breakfast. Forearm venous blood samples were obtained at zero time and at 30-min intervals for 90 min and compared with time controls obtained 1 wk earlier. Eight of nine subjects responded to the oral glutamine load with an increase in plasma glutamine at 30 and 60 min before returning to the control value at 90 min. Ninety minutes after the glutamine administration load both plasma bicarbonate concentration and circulating plasma growth hormone concentration were elevated (by a mean of 430%). These findings demonstrate that a surprisingly small oral glutamine load is capable of elevating alkaline reserves as well as plasma growth hormone.
JJ, those papers are all well and fine if you are an elite endurance athlete participationg in repeated prolonged, exhaustive exercise. It is well documented that decreased immune function is a hazard for this type of athlete. As yet I have never met a serious bodybuilder who trains even close to that level repeated exhaustive exercise (60 minute bouts of interval weight training 3-4 days per week doesn't really rate). If you're a bodybuilder and are 'overtraining' to the point of immune system failure, which is what we're really talking about here, then it makes more sense to decrease training and increase food and rest rather than take glutamine. For instance check out: Effects of exercise intensity, duration and recovery on in vitro neutrophil function in male athletes.
Robson, et al, 1999
Effects of exercise intensity, duration and recovery on in vitro neutrophil function in male athletes.
It shows that high intensity, shorter duration exercise has less impact on immune function than longer, lower intensity exercise (yet another reason why weight training is superior to low intensity cardio!). Other researchers have shown that low plasma glutamine levels should actually be considered a symptom of overtraining/underadaptation rather than a cause, and that reducing workload is a more appropriate treatment instead of propping the athletes up with supps.
The last paper you cited did not show any performance benefit.
Given that most bodybuilders eat plenty of protein and calories (unlike most endurance athletes), and also hopefully get plenty of rest, I agree that there is nada evidence that glutamine supps are of any benefit to most bodybuilders most of the time.
Robson, et al, 1999
Effects of exercise intensity, duration and recovery on in vitro neutrophil function in male athletes.
It shows that high intensity, shorter duration exercise has less impact on immune function than longer, lower intensity exercise (yet another reason why weight training is superior to low intensity cardio!). Other researchers have shown that low plasma glutamine levels should actually be considered a symptom of overtraining/underadaptation rather than a cause, and that reducing workload is a more appropriate treatment instead of propping the athletes up with supps.
The last paper you cited did not show any performance benefit.
Given that most bodybuilders eat plenty of protein and calories (unlike most endurance athletes), and also hopefully get plenty of rest, I agree that there is nada evidence that glutamine supps are of any benefit to most bodybuilders most of the time.
JJFigure
New member
Yeah, I know - however, the challenge W6 offered up was to show any benefit to oral supplementation of glutamine. As we all know (or should), you can find a study for just about any side of an argument.
In my wanderings, I did find a lot of general "we think this may be beneficial for resistance trained athletes, but more study is warranted" BS. I found zero studies on resistance trained athletes - a lot of studies on a lot of different facets of life, including warding off parasites in sheep, but no studies on resistance trained athletes. Nice to know we're loved too.
I have been evaluating my supplement regimen, and being forced to research things like this are a real eye opener. It's nice to have MS and W6 out there challenging the anecdotal evidence and forcing us to research and think for ourselves instead of just going with the flow.
I keep coming back to the fact glutamine is so heavily used to boost the immunity of HIV patients, cancer patients, diabetics, etc. Although it's a stretch to compare a BB to a terminally ill patient, anything we can do to boost our immune system to prevent illness, I believe we should.
In my wanderings, I did find a lot of general "we think this may be beneficial for resistance trained athletes, but more study is warranted" BS. I found zero studies on resistance trained athletes - a lot of studies on a lot of different facets of life, including warding off parasites in sheep, but no studies on resistance trained athletes. Nice to know we're loved too.
I have been evaluating my supplement regimen, and being forced to research things like this are a real eye opener. It's nice to have MS and W6 out there challenging the anecdotal evidence and forcing us to research and think for ourselves instead of just going with the flow.
I keep coming back to the fact glutamine is so heavily used to boost the immunity of HIV patients, cancer patients, diabetics, etc. Although it's a stretch to compare a BB to a terminally ill patient, anything we can do to boost our immune system to prevent illness, I believe we should.
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The more recent evidence with glutamine argues against a positive effect. Regarding performance, just because GH is increased and/or there is blood buffering doesn't mean enhanced performance, they didn't measure performance.
Remember all the early studies that showed that AAS didn't work?
Lastly,
Almost all the protein powders out there are glutamine enriched. I'd bet if the runners in the two studies mentioned earlier were consuming the quantity of glutamine in their diets that most of you do simply because of the large protein intake, I don't think they might have observed what they did.
JJ, do you know what the dose of glutamine was in the Castell studies you posted?
W6
Remember all the early studies that showed that AAS didn't work?
Lastly,
Almost all the protein powders out there are glutamine enriched. I'd bet if the runners in the two studies mentioned earlier were consuming the quantity of glutamine in their diets that most of you do simply because of the large protein intake, I don't think they might have observed what they did.
JJ, do you know what the dose of glutamine was in the Castell studies you posted?
W6
JJFigure
New member
I don't have access to the full study, and the abstract didn't give the amounts - here's the medline info in case you have access:
Medline Identifier
97408760
Authors
Castell LM. Newsholme EA.
Institution
University Department of Biochemistry, Oxford, United Kingdom. Title
The effects of oral glutamine supplementation on athletes after prolonged, exhaustive exercise. Source
Nutrition. 13(7-8):738-42, 1997 Jul-Aug.
Medline Identifier
97408760
Authors
Castell LM. Newsholme EA.
Institution
University Department of Biochemistry, Oxford, United Kingdom. Title
The effects of oral glutamine supplementation on athletes after prolonged, exhaustive exercise. Source
Nutrition. 13(7-8):738-42, 1997 Jul-Aug.
Yeah, good to know we're so well loved 
Wilson6 is, as always, correct. There will not likely ever be studies done on otherwise healthy and already quite muscular bodybuilders to see if adding supplement X to their regime makes them even MORE healthy and MORE muscular. It's just not a priority in this era of medical research focused on fixing sick people instead of making and keeping healthy people healthy.
"I'd bet if the runners in the two studies mentioned earlier were consuming the quantity of glutamine in their diets that most of you do simply because of the large protein intake, I don't think they might have observed what they did."................For me this is the bottom line. In fact, how would the results of that study differed if they had given the athletes a big proteinaceous breakfast instead of a 'light breakfast', and skipped the glutamine all together?? Anyway, I have reason to believe that chronic high intake of glutamine, just like almost any other nutrient or drug, will eventually lead to an increased dependence on that nutrient/drug, or down regulation of it's absorption, upregualtion of it's degradation and excretion and generally less efficient use of it. Seems better to me to only use stuff like glutamine when you know or suspect your immune system is faultering. For me this is during the last few weeks of a precomp diet. The rest of the time I generally keep very healthy without it. This is accomplished by attention to that triad of rest, food and exercise plus an attitude of minimizing chronic mental stress.
I think the only take home message from the studies of decreased immune function in endurance athletes is to avoid competitive endurance events if you value your health!
Wilson6 is, as always, correct. There will not likely ever be studies done on otherwise healthy and already quite muscular bodybuilders to see if adding supplement X to their regime makes them even MORE healthy and MORE muscular. It's just not a priority in this era of medical research focused on fixing sick people instead of making and keeping healthy people healthy.
"I'd bet if the runners in the two studies mentioned earlier were consuming the quantity of glutamine in their diets that most of you do simply because of the large protein intake, I don't think they might have observed what they did."................For me this is the bottom line. In fact, how would the results of that study differed if they had given the athletes a big proteinaceous breakfast instead of a 'light breakfast', and skipped the glutamine all together?? Anyway, I have reason to believe that chronic high intake of glutamine, just like almost any other nutrient or drug, will eventually lead to an increased dependence on that nutrient/drug, or down regulation of it's absorption, upregualtion of it's degradation and excretion and generally less efficient use of it. Seems better to me to only use stuff like glutamine when you know or suspect your immune system is faultering. For me this is during the last few weeks of a precomp diet. The rest of the time I generally keep very healthy without it. This is accomplished by attention to that triad of rest, food and exercise plus an attitude of minimizing chronic mental stress.
I think the only take home message from the studies of decreased immune function in endurance athletes is to avoid competitive endurance events if you value your health!
Oh goody, someone has already looked at protein versus glutamine in endurance athletes:
Effect of glutamine and protein supplementation on exercise-induced decreases in salivary IgA.
Krzywkowski K, Petersen EW, Ostrowski K, Link-Amster H, Boza J, Halkjaer-Kristensen J, Pedersen BK.
The Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
Postexercise immune impairment has been linked to exercise-induced decrease in plasma glutamine concentration. This study examined
the possibility of abolishing the exercise-induced decrease in salivary IgA through glutamine supplementation during and after intense
exercise. Eleven athletes performed cycle ergometer exercise for 2 h at 75% of maximal oxygen uptake on 3 separate days. Glutamine
(a total of 17.5 g), protein (a total of 68.5 g/6.2 g protein-bound glutamine), and placebo supplements were given during and up to 2 h
after exercise. Unstimulated, timed saliva samples were obtained before exercise and 20 min, 140 min, 4 h, and 22 h postexercise. The
exercise protocol induced a decrease in salivary IgA (IgA concentration, IgA output, and IgA relative to total protein). The plasma
concentration of glutamine was decreased by 15% 2 h postexercise in the placebo group, whereas this decline was abolished by both
glutamine and protein supplements. None of the supplements, however, was able to abolish the decline in salivary IgA. This study does
not support that postexercise decrease in salivary IgA is related to plasma glutamine concentrations.
So protein has the same glutamine-sparing effect as straight glutamine. Bodybuilders really need not worry I suspect!
And here's one on carbohydrates:
Carbohydrate supplementation during intense exercise and the immune response of cyclists.
Bacurau RF, Bassit RA, Sawada L, Navarro F, Martins E Jr, Costa Rosa LF.
Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of carbohydrate supplementation upon some aspects of the immune function in athletes during
intense indoor cycling. METHODS: Twelve male athletes cycled for 20 min at a velocity corresponding to 90% of that obtained at the
anaerobic threshold and rested for 20 min. This protocol was repeated six times. The athletes received, during the trial, water ad
libitum, or a solution of carbohydrate (95% glucose polymers and 5% fructose) at 10% (w/v), 1 g kg h every 20 min, starting at the
10th minute of the first exercise period, plus extra water ad libitum. RESULTS: Exercise induced a reduction in peripheral blood
mononuclear cell proliferation (37%) as well as in the production of cytokines by cultured cells (interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-2
(IL-2), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), by 37%, 35%, 26% and 16%, respectively).
All of these changes were prevented by the ingestion of a carbohydrate drink by the athletes, except that in IFN-gamma production,
which was equally decreased (17%) after the second trial. The concentration of plasma glutamine, an important fuel for immune cells,
was decreased in the placebo group but maintained in the group that received carbohydrate. CONCLUSION: Carbohydrate
supplementation affects positively the immune response of cyclists by avoiding or minimizing changes in plasma glutamine
concentration.
So really, if these silly endurance athletes would just eat properly (by bodybuilding standards anyway), they prolly wouldn't have so many immune probs.........
BCAAs are also 'glutamine sparing'. BCAA supplementation in combination with moderate energy restriction has been shown to induce significant and preferential losses of visceral adipose tissue and to allow maintenance of a high level of performance. Consumption of BCAA before or during endurance exercise may prevent or decrease the net rate of protein degradation, may improve both mental and physical performance and may have a sparing effect on muscle glycogen degradation and depletion of muscle glycogen stores. YMMV, but personally I supplement BCAAs when dieting (as well as glutamine), but otherwise I don't bother. If I were not on a tight budget, I might consider supplementing BCAAs just before and during training sessions.......
Effect of glutamine and protein supplementation on exercise-induced decreases in salivary IgA.
Krzywkowski K, Petersen EW, Ostrowski K, Link-Amster H, Boza J, Halkjaer-Kristensen J, Pedersen BK.
The Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
Postexercise immune impairment has been linked to exercise-induced decrease in plasma glutamine concentration. This study examined
the possibility of abolishing the exercise-induced decrease in salivary IgA through glutamine supplementation during and after intense
exercise. Eleven athletes performed cycle ergometer exercise for 2 h at 75% of maximal oxygen uptake on 3 separate days. Glutamine
(a total of 17.5 g), protein (a total of 68.5 g/6.2 g protein-bound glutamine), and placebo supplements were given during and up to 2 h
after exercise. Unstimulated, timed saliva samples were obtained before exercise and 20 min, 140 min, 4 h, and 22 h postexercise. The
exercise protocol induced a decrease in salivary IgA (IgA concentration, IgA output, and IgA relative to total protein). The plasma
concentration of glutamine was decreased by 15% 2 h postexercise in the placebo group, whereas this decline was abolished by both
glutamine and protein supplements. None of the supplements, however, was able to abolish the decline in salivary IgA. This study does
not support that postexercise decrease in salivary IgA is related to plasma glutamine concentrations.
So protein has the same glutamine-sparing effect as straight glutamine. Bodybuilders really need not worry I suspect!
And here's one on carbohydrates:
Carbohydrate supplementation during intense exercise and the immune response of cyclists.
Bacurau RF, Bassit RA, Sawada L, Navarro F, Martins E Jr, Costa Rosa LF.
Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of carbohydrate supplementation upon some aspects of the immune function in athletes during
intense indoor cycling. METHODS: Twelve male athletes cycled for 20 min at a velocity corresponding to 90% of that obtained at the
anaerobic threshold and rested for 20 min. This protocol was repeated six times. The athletes received, during the trial, water ad
libitum, or a solution of carbohydrate (95% glucose polymers and 5% fructose) at 10% (w/v), 1 g kg h every 20 min, starting at the
10th minute of the first exercise period, plus extra water ad libitum. RESULTS: Exercise induced a reduction in peripheral blood
mononuclear cell proliferation (37%) as well as in the production of cytokines by cultured cells (interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-2
(IL-2), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), by 37%, 35%, 26% and 16%, respectively).
All of these changes were prevented by the ingestion of a carbohydrate drink by the athletes, except that in IFN-gamma production,
which was equally decreased (17%) after the second trial. The concentration of plasma glutamine, an important fuel for immune cells,
was decreased in the placebo group but maintained in the group that received carbohydrate. CONCLUSION: Carbohydrate
supplementation affects positively the immune response of cyclists by avoiding or minimizing changes in plasma glutamine
concentration.
So really, if these silly endurance athletes would just eat properly (by bodybuilding standards anyway), they prolly wouldn't have so many immune probs.........
BCAAs are also 'glutamine sparing'. BCAA supplementation in combination with moderate energy restriction has been shown to induce significant and preferential losses of visceral adipose tissue and to allow maintenance of a high level of performance. Consumption of BCAA before or during endurance exercise may prevent or decrease the net rate of protein degradation, may improve both mental and physical performance and may have a sparing effect on muscle glycogen degradation and depletion of muscle glycogen stores. YMMV, but personally I supplement BCAAs when dieting (as well as glutamine), but otherwise I don't bother. If I were not on a tight budget, I might consider supplementing BCAAs just before and during training sessions.......
Thanks for that study. I have been using both glutamine and bcaas precontest for the last several comps. There are some inexpensive brands out there that come in a powder form. Beware they do taste bitter!!!! I used 5 grams glutamine to 15 grams bcaas before wo and after wo.-valerie
if nothing else at least the glutamine helps with carb cravings!
if nothing else at least the glutamine helps with carb cravings!
