L-Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body and is necessary for the maintenance of many metabolic functions. Under situations of stress, physiological demands increase, triggering a need for glutamine supplementation. For ease of dosing, Adaptogen Research L-Glutamine provides 5.85 grams of this amino acid per scoop to help replenish the bodys stores and support glutamines many functional roles. RECOVERY AFTER STRESS During stress states, the bodys glutamine requirement exceeds supply, severely reducing both plasma and skeletal muscle pools of free glutamine. Without adequate glutamine to meet the needs of the intestine, immune system, and vital organs, a negative nitrogen balance and catabolism can result. Adequate nutrition, which includes glutamine, can help spare host energy reserves and impede recovery complications. In fact, it has been recommended that patients preparing for elective surgery ready themselves nutritionally, in part through glutamine supplementation, to optimize recovery. Research also suggests glutamine may help diminish risks associated with conventional therapeuticssuch as high-dose chemotherapy and radiationby supporting mucosal integrity, immune competence, and glutathione biosynthesis. INTESTINAL HEALTH AND BARRIER FUNCTION. The greatest amount of glutamine is used by enterocytes. Supplementation may enhance mucosal health. A healthy intestinal mucosa not only supports optimal nutrient absorption, but it also supports mucosal immune function and provides a barrier between bacteria and their products in the intestines and the bloodstream. In various experimental models, glutamine administration has been shown to reduce epithelial cell death and preserve or improve barrier function. MUSCLE TISSUE PRESERVATION. Not only is glutamine necessary to maintain positive nitrogen balance and protein synthesis, but also it has recently been shown to prevent muscle loss by influencing myostatin levels.