The Health Benefits of Arginine
Arginine is an amino acid and before I tell you just how useful it is, let’s have a quick look at what amino acids do and why they are important.
Why we need Amino Acids
Amino acids are needed for the production of protein in the body which builds muscle, bone, tissues and cell walls. They are also essential in the production of slightly different proteins known as ‘functional’ proteins which help form hormones such as insulin, digestive enzymes and anti-bodies which help fight off infection.
Amino acids are not only needed for the production of protein, but also for neurotransmitters which are chemicals that transmit electrical nerve impulses in the brain which influence mood and behaviour. Hormones, such as the thyroid hormone, require the presence of one or more essential amino acids for their formation.
… and now let’s get back to Arginine
So we can see that Arginine – like the other 20 amino acids that make up protein – is vital for producing strong and healthy muscles, bones, hormones, digestive enzymes and those clever neurotransmitters. Now let’s look for other benefits of this amino acid.
Healthy circulation, growth and sex life
Arginine is converted to nitric oxide in the body and this helps to relax the blood vessels and so improve circulation. Some arginine is also converted into ornithine, an amino acid needed for the production of the growth hormone. Arginine has been found to improve erectile dysfunction as well as improving the health of the sperm: the head of the sperm contains extremely high concentrations of this amino acid.
Arginine deficiency
A deficiency in arginine could cause muscle weakness, impaired insulin and glucose production, hair loss and poor wound healing as well as the male reproduction problems mentioned above.
But before you rush off to get a supplement we should add that an arginine deficiency is very unlikely as this amino acid is produced naturally in the body even when it is lacking in the diet. Remember: always check with your doctor first before taking any supplements.
Foods that contain Arginine
Arginine is found in all protein-rich foods such as meat, nuts, dairy produce, sea foods and cereals. Soya beans and chick peas are also rich sources of this amino acid. A recent study has shown that eating water melon increases the levels of arginine present in the human body. So eat a good, balanced diet and you shouldn’t go short of arginine. Have a look at our list of the top 100 foods that contain arginine.
