Glutamine is one of the main amino acids in the human DNA. This is also highly contained in the human muscle. The amino acid may also be supplied by protein supplements such as shakes and the like. What’s the point of taking protein supplements when such amino acids are abundant in the human muscles already?  Glutamine levels deteriorate through  tiring physical activity. Any chance of deficiency of which could affect the immune system or put muscle tissues to waste, so body builders must constantly supply themselves with it through supplements, or else muscle building will be contradicted.

Glutamine found in protein shakes are sold as micronized, instant soluble powder. It is beneficial in raising the suppressor cell ratio for distance running and adding strength for compound work outs. When body builders do heavy work outs, they tend to produce lactic acid which is used by the body as an energy source. When the lactic acid is utilized, acid levels in the muscles fall and bring about this burning fatigue. So this particular amino acid is released in the bloodstream to counter acidosis. But when the amino acid in the blood is all out, the muscles are prompted to catalyse more. This is another reason why bodybuilders need supplements, so they will always have the aforementioned amino acid in their muscles, as the body calls for it constantly.

Glutamine does however, more than just produce or repair muscle tissues. It also produces ammonium to regulate the acid-base balance (pH) of the kidneys. It also supplies cellular energy, along with glucose. Besides that it also supplies nitrogen for anabolic processes including the development of muscle mass and bone mineralization. The amino acid also donates carbon for the completion of the citric acid cycle. So how is this amino acid attainable? Glutamine may be taken from food like chicken, fish, beef, eggs, milk, wheat, cabbage, beets, beans, spinach, parsley, and other dairy products. As for protein supplements, protein shakes with casein or milk protein has the highest source of this particular amino acid.