Glutamine

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body, comprising 60% of the free amino acid pool. Glutamine requirements increase during periods of metabolic stress and, therefore, glutamine is considered a conditionally essential amino acid. Glutamine is the primary fuel for rapidly dividing cells, including enterocytes, colonocytes, fibroblasts, and lymphocytes. Individuals deficient in glutamine often present with changes in gastrointestinal morphology, resulting in bacterial translocation, malabsorption, and diarrhea. Researchers have also found that Individuals deficient in glutamine may present with impaired wound healing and/or impaired immune function. Glutamine is available as a dietary supplement without prescription. Glutamine has been examined for management of diarrhea, mucositis, and peripheral neuropathy.