Arginine is an essential amino acid found in many foods and can also be taken as a dietary supplement. It has numerous health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and improving circulation. While the body can produce enough arginine, a balanced diet and supplements can help overcome health problems.
Arginine is an essential amino acid found in many different types of foods. First isolated in the latter part of the 19th century, the form most commonly used today is arginine, available in many health food stores as a dietary supplement. It is also possible to find amino acids of this type in a number of meats, seafood and vegetables.
The human body is normally capable of producing sufficient quantities of arginine to meet most of the body’s needs. The rest comes through the consumption of various meats and vegetables. There are a number of health issues that can impair this ability, and when this occurs, the individual can compensate by consuming foods that contain appreciable amounts of arginine. If necessary, the intake of a supplement can be added to what is ingested from a balanced diet.
There are many sources of arginine that can be incorporated into almost any diet. Dairy products contain appreciable amounts of this naturally occurring amino acid, making using cottage cheese and yogurt ideal sources for anyone counting calories. Chicken provides a decent source, as do beef and pork. Several types of seafood are also great sources, including lobster, tuna and salmon.
Arginine isn’t limited to meats and seafood. There are a number of nuts and grains that can be used to boost arginine levels. Snacks like peanuts, Brazil nuts, almonds and walnuts are great sources. Sunflower seeds, along with pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds are also nutritional snacks that contain this amino acid. Oatmeal is also a good source.
The health benefits of natural amino acids such as arginine are manifold. Maintaining a good amino acid level can help lower blood pressure and increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin. It is also essential for a healthy immune system and can help speed up the healing process. For men, arginine helps maintain sperm motility and production and thus minimizes the chances of infertility. For both men and women, it can help improve circulation throughout the body, including maintaining healthy blood flow to the reproductive organs.
Since the body can often make a good deal of arginine on its own, eating a balanced diet is usually all that is needed to ingest enough to maintain good health. However, additional arginine can help people overcome several health problems. People should consult a health care professional before taking large amounts of supplements, as there is potential for interactions with prescribed medications.
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