Does Glutamine Supplementation Enhance Bodybuilding Success?

Glutamine is one of the eleven nonessential amino acids often supplemented by athletes for the purpose of potentially enhancing their bodybuilding efforts. Although the required dosages of glutamine are produced by the body, we also receive a sufficient supply in our diet, specifically through high protein sources of food.

It has been theorized that glutamine supplementation may aid in increasing muscle mass and strength while preventing overtraining syndrome and preserving post workout muscle mass. On the endurance side, it is marketed as a Supplement that may benefit the immune system and offer improved post workout recovery. So does it live up to the hype? Not really, but it depends on who you ask.

Scientific studies have shown that more often than not, athletes are provided with plenty of glutamine naturally and don’t require supplementation at all. As for the claims of improved immune function, muscle preservation, increased post workout recovery, healing and growth hormone levels, that all appears to be nothing more than a great marketing strategy at best.

If you’re considering adding glutamine as a supplement to your diet, consider the source of your information and always take it with a grain of salt. While glutamine supplementation certainly won’t hurt, it probably won’t help as much as you’re being told and sold.

About Shauna
	Shauna is a personal trainer, nutrition consultant and health and fitness writer for Workoutbox.com. She is also the creator of the "Soccer Mom weight loss program".

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