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Glutamine

Glutamine, also known as L-glutamine, is an amino acid, and in particular the most common one in the body's blood stream. Although it is a non-essential amino acid, it is also considered a conditionally-essential amino acid, as in certain situations the body's demand exceeds its supply. Among the many functions of glutamine, some are assisting in brain function, digestion, and immune system function.

Good natural dietary sources of glutamine include: beef, beets, cabbage, chicken, dairy products, eggs, fish, milk, parsley, pork, poultry, spinach, and yogurt. L-glutamine supplement is also available individually or within a protein supplement, normally as capsule, liquid, powder, or tablet.

Glutamine has been used in treatment or management of numerous conditions and diseases, including: burns, colorectal cancer, Crohn's disease, HIV/AIDS, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), obesity, peritonitis, radiation damage, sepsis, ulcerative colitis, and wound healing. Many, though not all, of these treatment and management options have been confirmed in studies. A medical professional may be able to recommend whether to use glutamine in a particular situation.

As a side effect, it is considered that glutamine may actually promote growth in tumors, although sufficient study has not been done to confirm this. It is unknown whether taking glutamine may actually be harmful rather than beneficial in some or all cancer patients. Individuals with kidney disease, liver disease, or Reye's disease should not use a glutamine supplement.

Synonyms, related terms and other keywords:

• Dietary supplement
• Glutamic acid