L-arginine is an amino acid found in high levels in brown rice, certain nuts and seeds, chicken and chocolate. L-arginine helps to produce nitric oxide in the body, which causes blood vessels to relax, a process called vasodilation. According to MayoClinic.com, certain health conditions improve with vasodilation, and therefore L-arginine may be useful to treat these conditions. L-arginine is generally considered a safe nutrient to take, but it does have some side effects.
A doctor should always be consulted before taking L-arginine supplements.
Erectile Dysfunction
In a study published in a 1999 issue of "BJU International," researchers found that 5 g of L-arginine daily for six weeks improved the sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction.
Angina Pectoris
Those with angina pectoris, discomfort or pain in the chest due to coronary heart disease, may be able to benefit from L-arginine. In a study published in a 1997 issue of the "The American Journal of Cardiology," researchers found 6 g of L-arginine daily for three days increased the exercise capacity of patients with angina.
Increase Blood Sugar Levels
L-arginine may increase blood sugar levels. MayoClinic.com that patients who take prescription medications to control blood sugar levels should be careful when taking L-arginine supplements.
Altered Blood Chemistry
L-arginine's ability to produce nitric oxide may cause changes to electrolytes and chemicals in the blood. According to MayoClinic.com, L-arginine may cause high levels of potassium, chloride, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen and low levels of sodium and phosphate. People who suffer with kidney or liver disease are particularly vulnerable to these changes and should only take L-arginine under medical supervision.
Stimulates the Herpes Virus
According to Dr. Sheldon G.Sheps, the Mayo Clinics emeritus hypertension specialist, too much L-arginine, can trigger the herpes virus that causes cold sores and genital herpes, and therefore he recommends that sufferers should not take L-arginine supplements.
References
- Mayo Clinic: L-arginine
- Mayo Clinic: Erectile Dysfunction
- "BJU International"; Effect of oral administration of high-dose nitric oxide donor L-arginine in men with organic erectile dysfunction: results of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study; Chen J, Wollman Y, Chernichovsky T, et al;1999
- American Heart Association: Angina Pectoris
- "The American Journal of Cardiology"; Effect of supplemental oral L-arginine on exercise capacity in patients with stable angina pectoris; Ceremuzynski L, Chamiec T, Herbaczynska-Cedro K: 1997
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