Glutamine is an important amino acid for brain function because it regulates cell activity and works as a fuel that increases mental alertness and clarity of thinking. It works in part by converting to glutamic acid in the brain to neutralize ammonia. Ammonia is produced by the breaking down of proteins necessary for brain metabolism.
Since glutamine is also a fuel used by cells for metabolic energy, it doesnít cause the type of letdown common with stimulants such as caffeine. It may regulate muscle protein turnover. It is noteworthy that under conditions of infection and trauma, muscle concentrations of glutamine fall. The body rarely can get all it needs from dietary intake during times of stress. It can make what it needs during normal periods, but it has little or no reserve for times of stress, like after a strenuous weightlifting session or during illness. Supplements will help replenish the muscles, especially when take with creatine. It appears to play a specific role in maintaining function of rapidly proliferating cells such as lymphocytes.
Glutamine is critical in treating a number of health conditions, including sugar craving, impotence, fatigue, epilepsy, senility, schizophrenia, mental retardation, and peptic ulcers. Glutamine suppresses alcohol cravings, and has stopped sugar cravings. High doses of it may cause headaches and other side effects in some people, especially those sensitive to monosodium glutamate (MSG), a glutamic acid compound added to some foods as a flavor enhancer.