Arginine is a non-essential amino acid that the body can synthesize in the liver, however in times of stress or trauma arginine becomes an essential amino acid. Arginine is found in beans, brewer’s yeast, chocolate, dairy products, eggs, fish, legumes, meat, nuts, oatmeal, popcorn, raisins, seafood, seeds, sesame seeds, soy, sunflower seeds, whey, whole grains.

Arginine boosts nitric oxide production, making it potentially useful in the treatment of congestive heart failure, intermittent claudication, angina, impotence, and sexual dysfunction in women. Arginine relaxes blood vessels, keeps arteries flexible, and seems to act as a natural anticoagulant by reducing the "stickiness" of platelets. Preliminary evidence suggests that arginine may help to regulate cholesterol levels. Together, these benefits suggest that arginine may help to reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Arginine is also vital for the production of protein and the secretion of the hormones glucagon and insulin, it also stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. Arginine can also help to increase sperm production, boost the immune system, and aid wound and burn healing.

Decreased sperm count.

A typical therapeutic dosage of arginine is 2-3 g per day. Most people do not need to take supplementary arginine. People suffering from serious burns, infections, or other trauma may need extra arginine, however the doseage should be decided by a doctor.

MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established

Possible side effects include diarrhea and nausea. Individuals with renal or hepatic insufficiency and those with insulin-dependent diabetes should avoid large doses of arginine. As should people who are allergic to eggs, milk, or wheat. Notes: L-Arginine should not be taken in combination with L-Lysine, as lysine is an antagonist of arginine. L-Arginine can interfere with the metabolism of lysine, which can reactivate the herpes simplex virus. People taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) such as aspirin, and drugs that alter potassium levels, for example ACEinhibitors, should be cautious if taking supplementary arginine. People with kidney or liver disease should consult their doctor before taking supplementary arginine.