Trying to go the extra mile in the gym means forcing the body to achieve more than might be possible. Sports supplementers take L-Arginine which is readily available in sports and health retailers. L-arginine is a naturally occurring amino-acid which not only has as much to do with energy metabolism but with nitric oxide (NO) generation. The main natural sources are the protein-rich foods such as meat, especially fish and nuts. The richest sources are coconuts and chickpeas but the amino acid can also be obtained from protein powders and bars.
Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous substance in its natural state that has a vital role in biochemical signalling especially in triggering the dilation of blood vessels. Increasing the bioavailability of NO has been established to improve both vasodilation and consequently lower blood pressure. The recent evidence now suggests that production of NO can be influenced by modifying oxygen uptake, generally by increasing physical exercise.
L-arginine is the amino acid which can berate-limiting in concentration in the metabolic pathway producing NO. Research demonstrates that when large doses of L-arginine are ingested or infused directly into a blood vessel, there is a positive effect on increasing vascular function. Building on these studies, research hypothesized that L-arginine supplementation would improve exercise efficiency and enhance performance.
One study at the University of Exeter in the Uk from 2010 using a supplement called Ark 1 (Arkworld International Ltd.) has shown that if NO production can be sustained, then stamina is significantly improved during high-intensity exercise.
The study looked at nine healthy men performing cycling exercises on two occasions. During one trial, they consumed 6g of L-arginine and in the second they took a placebo.
One hour after taking the L-arginine or the placebo, the subjects performed an incremental exercise test to exhaustion. The principal finding was that L-arginine supplementation reduced the amount of oxygen needed to perform exercise. This meant that individuals accomplished the same exercise load, but with less energy expended. In other words they were more efficient after supplementing with L-arginine. L-arginine supplementation also increased time to exhaustion by 26% during high intensity cycling.
These findings albeit in a small study, provide further evidence that L-arginine supplementation (6g in a single dose) improves exercise efficiency and tolerance. Professor Andrew Jones, at the School of Sport and Health Sciences in Exeter, stated:
“The research found that when the dietary supplement was used there was a striking increase in performance by altering the use of oxygen during exercise.
“This is important for endurance athletes as we would expect the supplement to bring a 1-2% improvement in race times. While this may seem small, this is a very meaningful improvement – particularly at elite levels where small gains can be the difference between winning and losing.”
L-arginine is also a natural Viagra ! It can be taken to help ameliorate penile dysfunction. It also helps with reducing chest pains, cardiac issues L-arginine deficiency includes constipation, rashes, a fatty liver and even hair loss.
Please note this page contains links to our affiliate marketing partner. Please read our affiliate disclosure.
There is always really good informatіon in your blog aгticles. Keep on writing please – you could do with improving some of your English grammar though!