Glutamine
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A dispensable amino acid; the most abundant amino acid in the body; predominantly synthesized and stored in skeletal muscle; important in the regulation of acid-base balance; allows the kidneys to excrete an acid load, protecting the body against acidosis; serves as the most important nitrogen shuttle, supplying nitrogen for metabolic purposes; considered an immuno-nutrient and is used in medical foods for stress situations including burns, cancer, infections and trauma.

Glutamine is beneficial in some persons with varying forms of catabolic stress, i.e., persons with some forms of cancer, immune-suppressed, intensive care, transplantation, and surgical. Glutamine has also been shown to be beneficial in very-low-birth-weight infants and in situations of major trauma where it strengthens immunity, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract.

Dietary sources richest in glutamine (per serving) include nutritional supplements and all foods that are rich in protein, particularly milk protein and meats.

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