L-Arginine

L-arginine is an essential amino acid produced by the body. It can also be consumed in your diet. Foods that contain L-arginine are meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, nuts, and some legumes. Similar benefits can be gained from taking supplements that are made from animal and vegetable proteins. It is especially important for young people, because it stimulates the production of growth hormones.

L-arginine is beneficial in treating impotence and infertility in men. In the case of impotence, the L-arginine must be taken daily, unlike a pill such as Viagra, which is taken as needed. It may be beneficial to heart patients, because it increases blood flow, which reduces vessel thickness. It is said to regulate cardiovascular function. However, it should not be used after a heart attack, because researchers suspect that it may aggravate cardiac shock. It may be useful in lowering bad cholesterol, or LDL. It also stimulates the immune system and regulates nervous system function. Consult your physician, and let him/her know the vitamins you are taking.

There are some side effects while taking L-arginine. It is said to lower blood pressure due to the formation of nitric oxide. It can also cause indigestion, nausea, and headaches. Higher doses can worsen the symptoms of stomach upset by producing stomach acids. Hence, it may worsen ulcers, heartburn, or gastric upset caused by certain medications. It may increase potassium levels, which is not good for people with liver disease. An increase in blood sugars would be contraindicated for people with diabetes.