Glutamic acid is an abundant chemical in plants and animals. As an amino acid used to build proteins, glutamic acid is essential for human health. Fortunately, the human body can synthesize glutamic acid, and it is commonly found in many types of food. Glutamic acid supplements might be beneficial for certain medical conditions, although additional evidence is needed. Like any health supplement, consult your doctor before taking glutamic acid.
Amino Acid
Protein is one of the essential building materials of the human body. Muscle, skin, fingernails and internal organs are all built largely about of protein. Proteins are composed of building blocks known as amino acids. Different amino acids have different chemical properties, and the resulting properties of proteins depend on the amino acids of which they are composed. Glutamic acid is one of the 21 amino acids commonly found in the human body that are used to build proteins. Additionally, free glutamic acid acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain.
Sources
The human body can synthesize glutamic acid out of other amino acids, such as arginine. Because the human body can make glutamic acid, it is classified as a non-essential amino acid, meaning it is not essential to consume glutamic acid in food. In contrast, essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be consumed in food. Glutamic acid is generally found in any protein-rich foods, such as meat, seafood, eggs, dairy, nuts and soybeans.
Uses
Glutamic acid might be beneficial for certain health conditions. Glutamic acid is one of the most common amino acid founds in proteins from vegetables. In one study, people who received most of their dietary protein from vegetables instead of animals, and therefore had higher dietary intake of glutamic acid, displayed a decrease in blood pressure, according to an article published in 2009 in the medical journal "Circulation." Glutamic acid supplements might also help reduce the symptoms of heart diseases such as angina pectoris, as well as the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, according to Orthomolecular.org.
MSG
Monosodium glutamate, commonly referred to as MSG, is a form of glutamic acid sometimes used as a flavor enhancer. The use of MSG has generated significant controversy after reports of adverse reactions such as fatigue, headache and depression. Despite testing, the side effects of MSG have not been confirmed, according to Orthomolecular.org.
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