Glutamine

L Glutamine is traditionally considered a nonessential amino acid but may be conditionally essential in patients with catabolic (loss of muscle tissue due to disease) conditions. Glutamine -supplemented foods in these patients have been shown to prevent deterioration of gut permeability, protect against the development of intestinal mucosal atrophy, and improve nitrogen balance. Levels in plasma and skeletal muscle are decreased in those with cancer. Glutamine supplementation can attenuate loss of protein in the muscle and protect immune and gut-barrier function during radiochemotherapy in patients with advanced cancer. L-glutamine is the most prevalent amino acid in the blood. Human cells readily manufacture it and under normal circumstances dietary intake and production is sufficient. However, in times of stress or increased energy output, the body's tissues need more than usual.