Arginine is an amino acid, there are numerous amino acids, but there are twenty that are nutritionally important. These twenty are divided into two groups: nine of these are considered essential, which means that they cannot be made by the body and must be obtained through the diet or supplementation; eleven are non-essential, which means that they can be made by the body. Although Arginine is a non-essential amino acid, it plays a role in several important mechanisms in the body, including wound healing, removal of ammonia from the body, supports immune function, cell division and secretion of important hormones, such as insulin and glucagons.
In addition, the body uses Arginine to make nitric oxide, a substance that relaxes and dilates the blood vessels. Research indicates that reduced levels of nitric oxide can lead to an elevation in cholesterol levels; therefore, Arginine may support healthy cholesterol balance. In a study conducted on 45 healthy, non-smoking elderly volunteers researchers noted decreased total serum cholesterol with a reduction in LDL, but not in HDL. In other words, the participants in this study had an increase in the ration of low to high-density lipoproteins, a very important factor in measuring cholesterol. It may also be important to liver health because it assists in the neutralization of ammonia, which is toxic to the liver and other living cells. Our formula uses the L form of Arginine because it is closer to that which is manufactured by the body. It is derived from a fermentation of molasses. Our L-Arginine 500mg is available in 100 count capsules.
