L-Arginine-500mg

L-Arginine
A versatile, conditionally essential amino acid

PRODUCT DATA DOUGLAS LABORATORIES® 07/2014
DESCRIPTION
L-Arginine capsules, provided by Douglas Laboratories, contain 500 mg pure, crystalline L-arginine.
FUNCTIONS
Amino acids have many functions in the body. They are the building blocks for all body proteins—structural
proteins that build muscle, connective tissues, bones and other structures, and functional proteins in the form
of thousands of metabolically active enzymes. Amino acids provide the body with the nitrogen that is essential
for growth and maintenance of all tissues and structures. Aside from these general functions, individual amino
acids also have specific functions in many aspects of human physiology and biochemistry.
L-arginine is a conditionally essential dibasic amino acid. The body is usually capable of producing sufficient
amounts of arginine, but in conditions of physical stress, e.g., trauma or illness, endogenous synthesis is often
inadequate to meet the body’s increased demands. L-arginine can be either used for glucose synthesis or
catabolized to produce energy via the tricarboxylic acid cycle. It is needed for tissue protein synthesis and
ammonia detoxification via the urea acid cycle.
As a precursor of nitric oxide, L-arginine may ameliorate the negative smoking-induced changes to the
structure and function of vascular tissue. L-arginine is required for the synthesis of creatine phosphate. Similar
to adenosine triphosphate (ATP), creatine phosphate functions as a carrier of readily available energy for
contractile work in muscles. Adequate reservoirs of creatine phosphate are necessary in muscle as an energy
reserve for anaerobic activity. L-arginine is also a precursor of polyamines, including putrescine, spermine and
spermidine. Spermine and spermidine interact with DNA, act as physiological growth regulators of cell
proliferation, and are involved in the stabilization of cell membranes and cell organelles. L-arginine is a potent
stimulator of insulin, glucagon, and growth hormone release, and functions as a representative signal to the
endocrine system that dietary protein ingestion has taken place.
INDICATIONS
L-arginine capsules may be a useful nutritional adjunct for individuals who wish to supplement their diets with
significant amounts of L-arginine.
FORMULA (#7932)
Each capsule contains:
L-Arginine ..............................................................................................................500mg
SUGGESTED USE
One capsule per day or as directed by a physician.
SIDE EFFECTS
No adverse side effects have been reported.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Keep out of reach of children.