For optimal health, the body has to have enough amounts of essential amino acids, such as L-arginine. According to various studies, L-arginine plays an important role in several bodily functions, including muscle building and tissue rebuilding. In addition, it facilitates the release of nitric oxide in the blood, widening the blood vessels and allowing better blood circulation and blood flow.
What are the benefits of L-arginine?
L-arginine is naturally produced in the body and is also available in the foods that we eat. With it, your body can enjoy the following benefits:
- It helps improve healing and recovery rates of wounds, cuts, and others.
- It aids the kidneys in eliminating toxins and wastes from the body.
- It boosts hormone production and balance in the body.
- It promotes immune function, lowering the risk of infections, diseases, and other health problems.
- It relaxes the blood vessels, arteries, and others, allowing for efficient cardiovascular function.
How does L-arginine boost heart health?
L-arginine in your body converts into nitric oxide, which is a potent neurotransmitter that can dilate and relax the blood vessels, and enhance blood circulation and flow. With improved cardiovascular health, your risk of the following conditions decreases:
- Coronary artery disease
- Angina
- Chest pains
- Clogged arteries
Can L-arginine improve men’s sexual health?
Because L-arginine has a positive impact on blood circulation and blood flow in the body, it may also help in boosting sexual health in men.
One of the most common sexual health problems that strike men today is erectile dysfunction, which is a condition that negatively affects sex life. It is characterized by having difficulties achieving an erection after receiving sexual stimulation and/or maintaining a firm and long-lasting erection for the satisfaction of all parties involved.
With more L-arginine in the body, blood flow to the penis can be improved, thus preventing erectile dysfunction. In addition, L-arginine can make the heart strong and healthy, giving you higher stamina and endurance to enjoy many intimate moments in the bedroom.
Can L-arginine cause side effects?
Through the years, there have been several clinical trials and studies that focused on L-arginine supplementation.
Some studies found that taking L-arginine supplements can trigger a number of minor side effects, such as diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain, which may last up to three months. In some cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as gout and asthma. There were also findings that discovered that L-arginine can interact with certain drugs and medications, such as medications for blood pressure and erectile dysfunction.
How much L-arginine supplementation does your body need?
According to health experts, people who need L-arginine supplementation may consume up to 1,200 milligrams of L-arginine supplements a day. However, this should be done only after talking with a medical professional to avoid the risks.
With L-arginine supplements, you can avail of many benefits, such as:
Improved heart health
Various researches show that taking L-arginine supplements can boost the health of the cardiovascular system, and keep heart attacks, strokes, and other heart problems away.
Better immunity against infections and faster healing rate
L-arginine can positively impact the body’s ability to protect against viruses, bacteria, and free radicals that can threaten your health.
Lower risk of inflammation
Among the most important benefits of taking L-arginine is the prevention of disease-causing inflammation, most especially when working together with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and other antioxidants.
Delay the effects of aging
L-arginine aids in the body’s detoxification process and lowers the ammonia levels in the blood, which can stop cellular destruction and boost cell, tissue, and skin health.
Enhance erectile function and fertility
Several studies have found how L-arginine can enhance blood circulation, helping improve penile performance. They have also discovered its positive effects on sperm count, structure, and motility.
Boost physical and athletic performance
For improved physical fitness, you should take L-arginine supplements. They not only can enhance cardiovascular function for greater stamina, strength, and endurance, but also reduce muscle pains and aches.
Increase human growth hormone production
Your body uses L-arginine to produce human growth hormone or HGH, which is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland for growth and development of muscles and bones, repair of tissue in the brain and other vital organs, and healing and recovery after an injury.
How can you boost L-arginine in your body naturally?
There are many healthy and nutritious foods that can supply your body more L-arginine for optimal health. The following are some good examples:
1. Turkey
Among all the L-arginine foods, turkey is the one with the highest L-arginine content. For every turkey breast that you cook, you can get 16 grams of L-arginine. Moreover, you can avail of good proteins, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can enhance your heart health and immune function.
2. Chicken
Another food rich in L-arginine is chicken. For every piece of chicken breast that you eat, you can get 9 grams of arginine. In addition, it is rich in healthy proteins, which aids in weight loss, weight maintenance, and lowering the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other medical problems.
3. Soybeans
Rich in magnesium and potassium, soybeans are also an excellent source of L-arginine. A cup of roasted soybeans can have up to 5 grams of L-arginine, which is key to improving your blood circulation and cardiovascular function. They are also loaded with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, which are great for heart health, metabolism, and weight loss and maintenance.
4. Pumpkin seeds
Another good plant L-arginine source are pumpkin seeds, which contains 7 grams of L-arginine per cup. Because they also have high levels of zinc and iron, they can enhance bladder and prostate health, and lower the risk of certain cancers.
