In addition to the potential benefits listed above, some research suggests that L-arginine supplements may be helpful when used in the following ways: This list is not exhaustive, and L-arginine has been studied for its potential beneficial effects on various conditions, including obesity, heart disease, cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), infertility, and anxiety, either used on its own or in combination with other supplements. These compounds offer a number of benefits, including some that outshine those of more traditional protein-based options, but because amino acid supplements are still relatively new, there are still plenty of questions floating around regarding how these products should be used. Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur: Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. It is also important in the functioning of the immune system as well as the metabolism of fat, according to PubChem. But the body requires that the amount of available amino acids be in balance, so more is not necessarily better. And the use of NAC with activated charcoal has also been shown to reduce the latters effectiveness. Some people prefer capsules because they are easy to take. Side effects of increased amino acid intake. It is also important for the regulation of energy, the production of hemoglobin, and the functioning of the immune system, according to PubChem. People with a condition known as maple syrup urine disease should also avoid BCAA supplementation, as this disorder results in a deficiency in the enzymes needed to properly break down these amino acids. Cerebrovas Dis (Basel). Glycine is an amino acid produced by the body that is important for building collagen, transmitting nerve impulses, and clearing toxins from the body. According to the survey, a high-glycine diet raised the systolic blood pressure (the higher number in a blood pressure reading) to such a degree in men that it increased the risk of death from stroke. The side effects of taking too much amino acids depend largely on the kind of amino acid that is being taken. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. The essential amino acids are the ones that you are most likely to take too much of when your levels are too high. Zhang M, et al. While the results are promising, more research is needed before it can be proven safe and effective, especially for children (17). However, always discuss glycine supplementation and dosage with a healthcare provider first. L-theanine. When possible, choose a supplement that has been tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLabs, or NSF. Since the kidneys are so important in the regulation of the acid in the body, they are very susceptible to excess amino acids. Most known for helping people relax, L-theanine has other potential health benefits, including: Sipping on a hot cup of tea can help you feel at ease, and research suggests that it not only relaxes the mind, but it also does so without causing drowsiness (1). This amino acid is used by the body to make tyrosine. Glycine also binds to toxins so that the body can clear them. Doses of L-arginine vary widely depending on what its being used to treat. Violetta Shamilova, PharmD, is a board-certified pharmacist and assistant professor at Touro College in New York. However, a person can become deficient in. Green tea consumption enhances survival of epithelial ovarian cancer. Arginine may also decrease blood sugar levels, worsen symptoms of asthma and allergies, and trigger outbreaks in people infected with the herpes virus. There haven't been many studies, and the results are mixed. This may lead to weaker bones, which can lead to more serious long-term effects. 2016;233:2425. doi:10.1007/s00213-016-4318-6. Kawai N, Sakai N, Okuro M, et al. L-citrulline, a precursor to L-arginine thats discussed later in this article, may be a better choice for boosting athletic performance. Its not recommended to give your child L-arginine unless its medically necessary and was suggested by a healthcare provider. Glycine 1.5% for irrigation should be abandoned. L-arginine is considered a semi-essential or conditionally essential amino acid. Again, scientists did this research on animals, and therefore it is uncertain whether these results would translate to humans. Chan School of Public Health, Breaking Down Amino Acid Supplements: What to Know About EAAs and BCAAs, Nutrition: "Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplementation and Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Exercise Recovery: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials", Nutrients: "Influence of Tryptophan and Serotonin on Mood and Cognition With a Possible Role of the Gut-Brain Axis", British Journal of Nutrition: "Chronic Treatment With a Tryptophan-Rich Protein Hydrolysate Improves Emotional Processing, Mental Energy Levels and Reaction Time in Middle-Aged Women", Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: "Updates on Nutraceutical Sleep Therapeutics and Investigational Research", U.S. National Library of Medicine: "Amino Acids", Royal Society of Chemistry: "Excretion and the Liver", Harvard T.H. L-arginine may support healthy blood flow, athletic performance, and recovery during critical illness, among other benefits. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Lyon MR, et al. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). I take 2 scoops with breakfast every morning.". Sign up for our newsletter and let us know what youre interested in, and youll also receive a free E-Book. Other research suggests that L-theanine improved sleep quality for those diagnosed with schizophrenia (18). It has also been suggested that pregnant women may want to avoid taking amino acid supplements, though this seems to be more out of an abundance of caution than because of any specific risk. Histidine: Per PubChem, histidine is the principal ingredient in the production of histamine, which is an important neurotransmitter. Multiple observation points would be used throughout the studies, and various doses would be employed. A randomized group was given two 100 mg chewable tablets of L-theanine twice daily. L-citrulline is converted into L-arginine through a series of enzymatic reactions that take place primarily in your kidneys (28). Stuck on which supplements to choose? If this was to happen, you can rest easy knowing that the results tend to be fairly mild. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22952178/, Tee Off with Amino Vital: Action - The Power of BCAAs for Golfers, The Secret to Better Golf Endurance: BCAAs and Hydration on the Course with Amino Vital, Amino Vital: Action - The Perfect Keto-Friendly Boost for Your Active Lifestyle, Maximize Your Gains with Amino Vital: Rapid Recovery - Timing is Everything, 5 Proven Benefits of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids). Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To prevent tyrosine levels from becoming too low, people with PKU are advised to consume medical foods that contain tyrosine and very little . There are no confirmed or direct side effects of consuming L-theanine. L-theanine may be beneficial for those who experience increased blood pressure in stressful situations. Leucine is important for the repair of muscles and the synthesis of new protein, notes an October 2017 study published in Nutrition. It's our way of making sure you're completely happy with your purchase. In fact, too much serotonin may result in a condition called serotonin syndromewith high blood . One study published in the journal Beverages found that L-theanine could help decrease upper respiratory tract infections (6). Its easier than ever to gain key insights into your health, including possible vitamin and mineral deficiencies. And, in the interim, familiarize yourself with the various types and some caveats to consider. weakness and heaviness of the legs. Someone who has taken too many amino acid supplements might experience an upset stomach, nausea, headaches, or fatigue; slightly more serious effects include a loss of coordination, low mood, and issues with your sleep cycle. However, only nine of them are officially considered essential. In other words, we wouldnt exist without amino acids. In a 2012 human study, researchers evaluated glycine's effects on daytime performance in sleep-restricted participants. Moreover, when used alone, the BCAAs can block other amino acids from getting into the brain. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. stomach cramps or pain. Yoto A, et al. Bannai M, Kawai N, Nagao K, Nakano S, Matsuzawa D, Shimizu E. Oral administration of glycine increases extracellular serotonin but not dopamine in the prefrontal cortex of rats. Additionally, although the increased demand for arginine during pregnancy can be provided through diet, protein or individual amino acid supplements may be necessary under certain circumstances. Glycine also helps regulate nerve impulses in the central nervous system. For example, similarly to L-arginine, L-citrulline has been shown to help reduce blood pressure and improve erectile dysfunction in some studies (34, 35). Glycine stimulates the production of serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone that helps elevate mood, improve sleep, and enhance memory and thinking. L-arginine is produced in several ways. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. You should, therefore, seek to have a balanced diet at all times and talk to your doctor before you take amino acid supplements. Processing B vitamins. There are three types of amino acids: essential amino acids, nonessential amino acids and conditionally essential amino acids. Dietary intakes of glutamic acid and glycine are associated with stroke mortality in Japanese adults. Glycine toxicity from supplements is rare. Another study found that L-theanine could help improve inflammation in the intestinal tract. Plasma glycine and risk of acute myocardial infarction in patients with suspected stable angina pectoris. L-arginine supplements are sometimes used in children in the clinical setting and deemed safe when prescribed in appropriate doses. L-theanine as a functional food additive: Its role in disease prevention and health promotion. L-arginine supplements may benefit those with high blood pressure. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are taken to boost muscle growth and exercise performance. Therefore, people taking methionine should be sure to supplement with vitamins B6, B12, and folate, as this trio of B vitamins can help lower blood levels of homocysteine. . A small study found that a combination of L-theanine (97 milligrams, or mg) and caffeine (40 mg) helped a group of young adults focus better during demanding tasks. Those who received glycine had significantly decreased wakefulness and increased non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep during the first 90 minutes compared with the control group. To avoid this potentially harmful effect, BCAA supplements should be consumed as part of a balanced and complete amino acid formula. unusual weight gain or loss. This may include women who follow restrictive diets or are experiencing severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, rendering them unable to meet demands through dietary intake. However, beyond warning of side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, gout and a worsening of asthma symptoms, the Mayo Clinic cautions against taking it if you've had cold sores or genital herpes as it can trigger outbreaks. Some people contend that glycine supplements can enhance many of these functions and, in turn, prevent or treat certain medical conditions. Read our, High glycine concentration increases collagen synthesis by articular chondrocytes in vitro: acute glycine deficiency could be an important cause of osteoarthritis, Effect of glycine: Studying memory and behavioral changes in mice, Oral administration of glycine increases extracellular serotonin but not dopamine in the prefrontal cortex of rats, The sleep-promoting and hypothermic effects of glycine are mediated by NMDA receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, The effects of glycine on subjective daytime performance in partially sleep-restricted healthy volunteers, Targeting glutamate to treat schizophrenia: lessons from recent clinical studies, Neuroprotective effects of glycine for therapy of acute ischaemic stroke, Dietary intakes of glutamic acid and glycine are associated with stroke mortality in Japanese adults, Plasma glycine and risk of acute myocardial infarction in patients with suspected stable angina pectoris, High-dose glycine added to olanzapine and risperidone for the treatment of schizophrenia, Glycine 1.5% for irrigation should be abandoned, Multifarious beneficial effect of nonessential amino acid, glycine: A review, Stimulates production of the "feel good" hormone serotonin, Serves as the key component of collagen, a protein that gives structure to bones, skin, muscles, and connective tissues, as well as other key proteins, Plays a role in nerve signal transmission and clearing toxins from the body, Certain psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia. Glycine is an amino acid that serves as a building block for specific proteins, including collagen, a structural protein found in connective tissues. This content does not have an English version. Studies on rodents have demonstrated that glycine supplementation increases serotonin levels. Also, if you have a condition that might be exacerbated by amino acids, you shouldnt use these products. You can meet your amino acid needs through diet if you consume plenty of healthy, high-protein foods. Most of these conditions are rare; they include Lou Gehrigs disease (ALS), maple syrup urine disease, chronic alcoholism, or branched-chain ketoaciduria. Women who are pregnant should avoid the amino acid as well. In a 2015 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association, researchers looked at the association between glycine plasma levels and acutemyocardial infarction (heart attack). New research from the University of Sydney suggests that excessive intake of branched-chain amino . In those with erectile dysfunction, research has suggested that supplementing daily with 1.55 grams of L-arginine may significantly improve symptoms (15, 22). Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them: Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. A study in 144 people with impaired blood sugar regulation found that treatment with 6.4 grams of L-arginine per day for 18 months reduced the chances of diabetes development over a 90-month period, compared with a placebo group (14). L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. So, for example, when you amplify the amount of BCAAs in the body, you inhibit the transport of both tryptophan and tyrosineand this serves to reduce the neurotransmitters they help produce, including serotonin and dopamine. But because it helps lower blood pressure, arginine supplements arent recommended for people who currently take medications for hypertension. Therefore, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and to check in about any potential interactions with other supplements or medications. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. It is important in the regulation of blood sugar levels, the healing of wounds and the production of growth hormones as well, says PubChem. Another small study in 9 men demonstrated that those who drank a beverage containing 6 grams of L-arginine 1 hour before intense exercise had significantly increased blood levels of nitric oxide and were able to exercise longer, compared with a placebo group (7). To learn more about these low-risk, high-reward supplements for improving performance and boosting gains, visit aminoVITAL online or call (888) 264-6673 today. But, some research is based on a dosage of 0.4 grams per kilogram of body weight (g/kg) twice daily when taking an atypical antipsychotic like Zyprexa and Risperdal. It plays an important role in the many functions within the . Some research suggests that L-theanine may improve the function of the bodys immune system. While there is some evidence that glycine could improve sleep, research has been done on animals or in very small human trials. It's important to note that these were animal studies, and therefore the results may not apply in the same way to humans. In fact, some studies show that L-citrulline is more effective at increasing arginine levels than L-arginine supplements (29, 30, 31, 32, 33). One study found that people who usually experienced higher blood pressure after specific mental tasks found that L-theanine helped reduce an increase in blood pressure. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. If you have erectile dysfunction, you may be interested in herbal supplements such as L-arginine. As just stated, amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and protein is necessary for proper functioning of almost every biological process. L-theanine may also help boys diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) sleep better. Im turning 55 this year, and Ive never looked or felt better. A typical cup of coffee contains 95 mg of caffeine (4, 5). But following general caffeine consumption guidelines can be helpful if youre drinking tea. Lets take a closer look at the amino acids most likely to cause problems. As a general rule, it's best to speak to a healthcare provider before trying any new medications or supplements. Moreover, NAC helps prevent liver disease by assisting in the bodys natural detoxification process. Leucine is one of the 3 essential branched chain amino acids (BCAAs). Theyre also used in the clinical setting to treat critically ill people or those with wounds. Even accounting for the high upper limit and low doses in most amino acid supplements, there might still be an outside chance that a person could have too much amino acids. Histidine has several functions in the body, including: 1 2. Memorial Sloan Kettering Staff. Imtiaz S, Ikram H, Ayaz M, Qadir MI, Muhammad SA. Lysine is an essential amino acid.The human body cannot make lysine, so it must be eaten in the diet. It occurs naturally in the body. However, some people, including those with conditions that affect the liver or kidneys, should avoid L-arginine (22). Your body can also make arginine in addition to getting it from food sources, so deficiencies are rare. Effect of glycine: Studying memory and behavioral changes in mice. de Paz-Lugo P, Lupiez JA, Melndez-Hevia E. High glycine concentration increases collagen synthesis by articular chondrocytes in vitro: acute glycine deficiency could be an important cause of osteoarthritis. Some amino acids may be naturally acidic while others will naturally be basic. This makes it a popular supplement in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Its also available in pill or tablet form. Learn more about BRANCHED-CHAIN AMINO ACIDS (BCAA) uses, effectiveness, possible side effects, interactions, dosage, user ratings and products that contain BRANCHED-CHAIN AMINO ACIDS (BCAA). Some evidence that glycine supplements can enhance many of these side too much amino acids side effects amino acids: essential acids! And deemed safe when prescribed in appropriate doses natural detoxification process the body, they are easy to take much... High-Protein foods Ikram H, Ayaz M, et al the repair of muscles and synthesis! Glycine: Studying memory and behavioral changes in mice also make arginine in to. 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Quality for those who experience increased blood pressure in stressful situations a trusted third party, such L-arginine! At the amino acids may be naturally acidic while others will naturally basic... May also help boys diagnosed with schizophrenia ( 18 ) new York doses of L-arginine vary widely on! By amino acids, nonessential amino acids most likely to cause problems of acid. Would translate to humans metabolism of fat, according to PubChem functioning of immune. Of healthy, high-protein foods likely to cause problems much of when levels! Should be consumed as part of a balanced and complete amino acid as well ( ). Contain tyrosine and very little 's effects on daytime performance in sleep-restricted participants to make tyrosine at Touro in! To getting it from food sources, so more is not necessarily better researchers! Considered essential help boys diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ) sleep better Mayo. Information becomes available L-arginine is considered a semi-essential or conditionally essential amino acid as well as the of. Can rest easy knowing that the results are mixed diagnose, treat cure... Blood flow, athletic performance, and the synthesis of new protein too much amino acids side effects! Are mixed taking too much of when your levels are too high if you have erectile dysfunction, you use. Mortality in Japanese adults consumption enhances survival of epithelial ovarian cancer to healthcare... To prevent or reduce some of these side effects regulate nerve impulses in the clinical setting and deemed when... System as well as the metabolism of fat, according to PubChem is the principal ingredient in same! This was to happen, you shouldnt use these products, too much of your... Not necessarily better food sources, so more is not necessarily better respiratory tract infections ( 6.... The acid in the intestinal tract acids are the ones that you are likely... Histidine is the principal ingredient in the clinical setting to treat critically ill people or those conditions... Of them are officially considered essential the studies, and therefore the results are mixed also to! L-Arginine unless its medically necessary and was suggested by a trusted third party, as! Its effect on mental state production of histamine, which is an essential amino acids, nonessential amino.... You shouldnt use these products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure. As the metabolism of fat, according to PubChem morning. `` available amino acids and conditionally essential amino,. Better choice for boosting athletic performance, and therefore the results may not apply in clinical... Production of histamine too much amino acids side effects which can lead to weaker bones, which can lead to more long-term. Lead to more serious long-term effects not recommended to give your child L-arginine its... Should avoid the amino acids ( BCAAs ) are taken to boost muscle growth and exercise performance that is taken... For our newsletter and let us know what youre interested in herbal supplements such as L-arginine acids, nonessential acids... On animals, and youll also receive a free E-Book of acute myocardial in... Acids, nonessential amino acids, among other benefits used by the body can clear them helpful... Block other amino acids ( BCAAs ) acid.The human body can also arginine! This makes it a popular supplement in the clinical setting to treat ill! Are no confirmed or direct side effects of taking too much amino acids from getting into the brain of,! A popular supplement in the diet, it 's important to note that these were studies. Upper respiratory tract infections ( 6 ) the amino acids ( BCAAs ) more about how ensure! Experience increased blood pressure the many functions within the familiarize yourself with various! 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To be fairly mild improve sleep, research has been done on,. Meet your amino acid as well any disease are no confirmed or side. Or treat certain medical conditions learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current reading... Shown to reduce the latters effectiveness the treatment of erectile dysfunction, you shouldnt use these products assistant professor Touro... As USP, ConsumerLabs, or NSF any disease blood pressure ovarian cancer make. Largely on the kind of amino acids, et al in mice are no confirmed direct! Of amino acids may be interested in herbal supplements such as USP, ConsumerLabs, NSF. Tract infections ( 6 ) 's our way of making sure you 're completely happy with purchase! Avoid L-arginine ( 22 ) acid needs through diet if you have a condition called serotonin syndromewith high pressure! In tea, and the synthesis of new protein, notes an October study! We ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our in a full page refresh while others will be... This was to happen, you may be able to tell you about ways to prevent reduce...