L-arginine is a nonessential amino acid the body needs for the synthesis of the waste product urea, which eliminates the toxin ammonia from the body. The amino acid also initiates the production of proteins and converts into nitric oxide to relax blood vessels. Even though the body is self-sufficient in making L-arginine, some foods contain high concentrations of this beneficial amino acid. Foods that contain a high protein content usually have a high concentration of L-arginine as well, according to MayoClinic.com.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great source for arginine, according to MayoClinic.com. Sesame seeds, peanuts and pumpkin seeds contain a high amount of arginine. Almonds and hazelnuts are also good choices of arginine. According to supplement maker Embla Arginine, nuts and seeds contain approximately 3 g of arginine per 100-g serving.
Dairy
Dairy is a good source of protein that also contains a good concentration of arginine. Parmesan, provolone and mozzarella cheese contain approximately 1 g of arginine per 100-g serving. Milk and buttermilk contain approximately the same amount. Adding a dairy product to a meal, such as cheese, can help boost the amount of arginine you consume.
Meat
Veal and beef contain 2 g of arginine per 100-g serving, the highest amount found in meats. Tuna and chicken are also a reliable source, containing 1.77 and 1.19 g per 100 g, according to Embla Arginine.
Legumes and Grains
Beans can offer a great source of arginine for vegetarians. Kidney beans, black beans, and french beans offer 2 g of arginine per serving. Soybeans contain the highest amount of arginine in the legume family, supplying 3 g per serving. Grains are also a good source for vegetarians to consume for their daily arginine intake. Oats rank at the top of the list of grains, providing 1,206 mg of arginine per 100-g serving, according to Embla Arginine. Puffed oats provide 1,127 mg of arginine for the same serving size. Wheat germ provides approximately 1 g per 100 g. Legumes and grains are excellent choices to add as side dishes to increase the amount of your daily intake of L-arginine.
Member Comments