Everyone knows that without protein, the human body cannot exist. Consisting of amino acids, it is the main building material for all tissues. Included in protein and arginine. What it is? This is an amino acid whose synthesis occurs under favorable circumstances. Many experts note that in recent years its synthesis has decreased significantly. This is due to age-related characteristics, various diseases, malnutrition and other adverse factors. Lack of arginine leads to a significant deterioration in health, therefore, the body needs it throughout life.
Amino Acid Characterization
Arginine - what is it? This is an amino acid that is produced in the required amount in a healthy person. It is able to turn into nitric oxide, which relatively recently was considered a very harmful compound that destroys all living things. But thanks to the will of chance in the study of drugs that affect cardiac activity, it was found that nitric oxide can dramatically relax the blood vessels. As a result of the experiments, it was proved that it is extremely important for humans. She participates in many biochemical processes, without which the body cannot exist at all.
How does arginine affect the human body?
Many have not even heard about arginine. What is it for? This amino acid is produced only under certain conditions. If the body has at least a small pathology, then the production of this compound is significantly reduced. In this case, a person has to take it in the form of a medicine or dietary supplements. The body in children cannot produce arginine at all.
The benefits of amino acids are very great. It relaxes the walls of blood vessels, relieving their spasm. It is widely used in cardiology to stop angina attacks. It also helps to improve blood circulation in the brain, reduces intraocular pressure, leads to increased blood flow to the genitals, and improves retinal microcirculation.
Arginine is an important component of the protein from which almost all organs are built. It is especially indispensable for muscles. That is why athletes who want to build muscle mass use supplements based on this amino acid.
Deficiency of arginine in the body leads to the progression of atherosclerosis, in addition, the kidneys and liver responsible for detoxification, elimination of ammonia from the organs begin to suffer. In the human body, a biochemical reaction proceeds from the amino acid – ornithine, which forms urea. With a lack of arginine, this process is disrupted, which increases the amount of urea.
This amino acid is a component of collagen that strengthens cartilage and muscles. In addition, it improves erectile function and spermatogenesis. As you know, sperm consists of protein, so its quality improves.
Arginine is also involved in the apoptosis process. What it is? Apoptosis is a programmed mechanism for the death of malignant cells. It is controlled directly by the body itself. It was noted that with a small concentration of nitric oxide, the apoptosis process is suppressed, and with a large amount it is enhanced. This gives hope that cancer patients can be cured without the help of surgery.
With the help of arginine, insulin production occurs, which helps to normalize blood sugar. He also takes an active part in the synthesis of growth hormone .
Where is arginine contained?
This amino acid is most often found in plant foods, meat. A large concentration of it in pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, walnuts. If you take meat, then a lot of arginine in raw chicken, pork, salmon. A little less is found in chocolate, peas, eggs, buckwheat bread and other products. But in order for the amino acid in the body to reach the required level, these products must be consumed in large quantities.
Arginine as a medicine
This amino acid is produced in the form of dietary supplements, and is also part of various drugs: cardiological, anti-burn, stimulating erectile function, designed to fight AIDS, which are the main element of the nutritional composition for patients after surgery.
If a person suffers from a lack of muscle mass, then arginine will come to the rescue, the action of which is aimed at building it. The tool is taken an hour before a workout or immediately after it.
Arginine is best taken with zinc, which enhances its action. If there are no special instructions from a doctor, then arginine in capsules is taken 1-2 times a day. More than 30 g of the drug should not be taken. The duration of treatment should not exceed three weeks, otherwise the skin tightens, passing after refusing the drug.
Is arginine able to harm the body?
What is the harm of arginine? And is he at all? Yes, if abused. The following side effects may occur: thickening of the tissues, digestion, decreased blood pressure, nausea, deformation of the cartilage and joints, abdominal pain, weakness, diarrhea. In this case, it is necessary to reduce the dose of the drug consumed until the side effects disappear. Amino acid, taken in large quantities, can cause inflammation of the pancreas, or pancreatitis.
Since arginine is involved in the synthesis of growth hormone, it is contraindicated for children to take, otherwise a disease such as gigantism may occur. It is also undesirable for pregnant and lactating women, patients with mental illness. It is better not to use it for a cold sore disease, in combination with preparations containing nitroglycerin and nitric oxide.
Conclusion
Many people are interested in the question: arginine - what is it? This is a common amino acid that can change the body. It can accelerate the aging process or slow down. Beauty and human health depend on it. With its lack, various diseases develop, therefore, to compensate for the deficiency, arginine-based drugs are taken.