You've probably heard about this supplement called Arginine, or L-Arginine, online, in pharmacies, or at the gym. It's a popular choice among those who are concerned about their health. So, what exactly is Arginine? Is it good for our bodies? Is it worth spending money on? Let's talk about it simply and clearly.
What exactly is Arginine?
Simply put, arginine is an essential amino acid for our bodies. These are the basic building blocks of proteins. The best part is that our bodies usually produce the amount of arginine they need. We also get it from the foods we eat and drink.
Arginine is particularly abundant in protein-rich foods . For example:
- Fish, red meat, chicken
- Soy, beans, peas
- Milk and milk products
- Nuts like peanuts, almonds, and cashews
- Oats, bran cereals
So if our bodies make it and we get it from food, why do people pay extra to take it as a supplement? Let's look at the reason for that.
What are the benefits of using arginine supplements?
One of the main properties of arginine is its ability to dilate and relax our blood vessels . Research has found that it may be beneficial for people with certain heart and circulatory conditions.
| Situations where an advantage can be gained | Simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Angina and Peripheral Arterial Disease | In these conditions, chest pain and leg pain are caused by impaired blood circulation. Arginine can relieve these symptoms by widening the blood vessels. |
| Health of people with heart failure | There is evidence that this may help improve the health of some patients with impaired heart function. |
| Erectile Dysfunction in Men | Some studies have shown that it can be effective, especially when taken in combination with other supplements, such as pine bark extract. |
| Other situations | There are also claims that it can help improve immunity, relieve migraines, help control blood pressure, and speed up recovery after surgery. |
But, is all this 100% proven?
No. The truth is, while some studies have shown these benefits, other studies have not shown such significant results. For example, arginine has been found to have no significant effect on recovery after a heart attack, high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia), or wound healing.
Most importantly, arginine has been shown in some studies to worsen asthma, so people with asthma should be very careful with this.
That means, arginine is not a panacea that can be given for any disease. That is why it is dangerous to use these without medical advice.
Risks and side effects of taking an arginine supplement
It's not a good idea to take these thinking, "It's just a supplement, it's okay." There are several potential risks associated with using arginine supplements.
| Risk type | Description and things to consider |
|---|---|
| Common side effects | Stomach aches, nausea, diarrhea, allergic reactions, and worsening of asthma symptoms may occur. |
| Blood pressure and blood changes | Unwanted drops in blood pressure, changes in blood sugar (glucose) levels, and other chemical levels may occur. |
| People who need to be especially careful (Risks) | |
| People with various medical conditions | If you have a condition such as cancer, asthma, allergies, liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, sickle cell disease, or a bleeding disorder, do not use arginine without talking to your doctor. People who have had a heart attack in the past should be very careful. |
| Interactions with other drugs | |
| If you are taking other medications | If you take any medications or supplements on a daily basis, be sure to tell your doctor before starting arginine. For example: Arginine may interact with birth control pills, hormonal medications, blood thinners, some pain relievers, and medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, and chest inflammation. |
| With other supplements | This can also cause problems with supplements such as Ginkgo biloba, garlic, Asian ginseng, and potassium. |
Are these suitable for pregnant mothers and children?
Absolutely not. Pregnant or nursing mothers and young children should avoid taking arginine supplements without consulting a doctor. Since the risks have not been clearly established, it is not advisable to take unnecessary risks.
Take-Home Message
- Arginine is an amino acid that our body produces itself and that we get from protein-rich foods. A healthy person usually does not need an external supplement.
- Although arginine supplements may provide some benefit for some heart conditions and several other diseases, the evidence is not 100% conclusive.
- Never start using arginine or any other supplement without medical advice, based on what you hear on the internet or from friends.
- This supplement can cause side effects and can react dangerously with other medications you are taking.
- If you have a condition like asthma, kidney disease, low blood pressure, or are pregnant, avoid using these altogether. Talk to your doctor before doing anything.
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