L-Arginine and L-Citrulline
What are L-Arginine and L-Citrulline?
L-Arginine and L-Citrulline are amino acids with significant roles within the body, particularly in the synthesis of nitric oxide (1). Nitric oxide is crucial in relaxing and expanding blood vessels, enhancing blood circulation, and subsequently moderating blood pressure (1) (5). L-Arginine transforms into nitric oxide directly, whereas L-Citrulline metamorphoses into L-Arginine, which then becomes nitric oxide (1) (5).
Uses of L-Arginine and L-Citrulline
Studies on L-Arginine and L-Citrulline reveal potential health benefits:
- Enhancing heart health by bolstering blood circulation and diminishing blood pressure (1) (5).
- Augmenting athletic prowess by improving blood circulation and diminishing muscle fatigue (1) (4) (6).
- Tackling erectile dysfunction through better blood flow to the genital region (5).
Dosage
Dosages for L-Arginine and L-Citrulline depend on the ailment being addressed and personal factors like weight (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6). Typically, to bolster cardiovascular health, 2g to 6g of L-Arginine per day is advised (1) (5). For enhancing athletic capacities, 6g to 8g of L-Citrulline daily is the norm (4) (6). The therapy span hinges on the specific ailment but is generally extended (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6).
Side Effects
Generally, L-Arginine and L-Citrulline are well-received with infrequent side effects (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6). Potential side effects from oral consumption encompass stomach disturbances, diarrhea, and nausea (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6).
Interactions
Combining L-Arginine and L-Citrulline with certain medications might result in interactions. Thus, before integrating them with other drugs or supplements, consulting a medical professional is paramount (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6).
Summary:
L-Arginine and L-Citrulline are amino acids instrumental in the generation of nitric oxide. While L-Arginine directly converts to nitric oxide, L-Citrulline transforms into L-Arginine first. These amino acids have been under the microscope for potential health merits, such as boosting cardiovascular health, amping up athletic performance, and mitigating erectile dysfunction. Their dosages depend on the ailment and individual considerations. Generally well-tolerated, they have a few side effects, like stomach disturbances. Interactions with other medications are possible, so expert advice is essential before combining them with other substances.
Citations:
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10005484/
(2) https://youtube.com/watch?v=FJ0NElBLWqw&t=17
(3) https://www.amazon.com/Source-Naturals-L-Arginine-L-Citrulline-Supplement/dp/B000OEQQQE
(4) https://www.mdpi.com/2306-5710/8/3/48
(5) https://www.healthline.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/l-citrulline
(6) https://www.amazon.com/Best-Naturals-L-Arginine-L-Citruline-Complex/dp/B00O5E41M0