Benefits of Arginine

Arginine is a type of amino acid, and it’s considered semi-essential. That means our bodies can’t always make enough of it on their own, so we need to get it from food or supplements. It’s packed with nitrogen and is especially popular among bodybuilders because it’s involved in a bunch of important processes in the body.

Where to Find Arginine

You can get arginine from various foods like dairy products, red and white meats, fish, coconut, soybeans, wheat germ, sesame oil, sunflower seeds, oats, and more. It’s also available in supplement form, usually as tablets or capsules.

Why Arginine Matters

Arginine plays a big role in the body because it’s broken down by an enzyme called citrulline to produce nitric oxide, which your body needs. Here’s why arginine is important:

• Boosts sexual performance and function in men.
• Helps improve blood flow by widening blood vessels, which brings oxygen and nutrients to muscles—this helps muscles grow and gives them energy and strength.
• Stimulates the production and release of growth hormone and insulin.
• Helps lower high cholesterol levels.
• Keeps your body’s salt levels balanced and steady.
• Increases fat burning.
• Strengthens and activates your immune system through nitric oxide production.
• Helps reduce high blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
• Boosts activity and size of the thymus gland, which produces immune cells.
• Helps detoxify the liver by neutralizing and balancing ammonia levels in the body.
• Supports weight loss by burning fat and increasing muscle mass.

Recommended Arginine Dosages

If you’re taking arginine supplements, it’s best to have your dose before working out and after meals. Dosages are usually based on your weight:

• 60-70 kg (130-155 lbs): 3,000 mg daily
• 70-90 kg (155-200 lbs): 6,000 mg daily
• Over 90 kg (200+ lbs): 9,000 mg daily

What Arginine Looks Like

• White crystalline powder
• Odorless
• Melting point: 500°F
• Molecular weight: 174.2 g/mol
• Chemical formula: C₆H₁₄N₄O₂