The amino acid glutamine -- the most abundant in the body -- carries out several important functions. This amino acid serves as the primary energy source for the cells lining the small intestine and stomach, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Limited research suggests glutamine supplementation might help treat stomach ulcers, but not enough exists to draw any definitive conclusions. A generally safe supplement, it cannot hurt to experiment and see if it provides any symptom relief. But you should always talk to your doctor before using glutamine or any other supplement to address your health concerns.
Stomach Ulcers, H.Pylori and Glutamine
Most stomach ulcers are the result of H. pylori bacterial infection. These bacteria damage cells and the protective lining of the stomach, which leads to ulceration and the accompanying unpleasant symptoms. Glutamine has been shown to inhibit the actions of H.pylori, which suggests it might serve as an effective treatment for stomach ulcers.
Research
Research on the use of glutamine for treating stomach ulcers is limited. The University of Michigan Health System says a study published in the '50s found that this supplement helped treat peptic ulcers. It also reports that a study conducted in 1995 found that glutamine reduced the formation of stress ulcers in severe burn victims.
More recent research has also produced positive results. In 2009, researchers from the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center tested the effects of glutamine supplementation on mice infected with H.pylori bacteria. Researchers found that the mice taking glutamine experienced an increase in the number of specific immune system cells that fight off H.pylori infection and lower levels of inflammation. Because increased inflammation can worsen ulcer symptoms, the potential for glutamine to reduce it might make this supplement a useful treatment for reducing the severity of H.pylori infection.
Dosage
The University of Michigan notes that many doctors suggest a dosage of 500 mg to 1,000 mg two to three times daily to treat peptic ulcers. Check with your doctor for an appropriate dose.
Considerations for Glutamine Supplementation
Heat will destroy glutamine, so take your supplements with cold and room-temperature beverages and foods. The University of Maryland Medical Center cautions against using glutamine if you have liver disease, kidney disease or Reye's syndrome. If you have sensitivity to monosodium glutamate, or MSG, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center notes that you could suffer similar side effects from taking glutamine, as your body converts it into glutamate. Glutamine supplements might also interfere with anti-seizure medications.
