Arginine and ornithine are both considered conditional amino acids, according to the National Institutes of Health. This means that they are made by your body and not essential to take in through dietary supplementation except under certain medical conditions such as stress and illness. Arginine and ornithine work together to stimulate growth-hormone release and are used by athletes in the hopes of increasing strength, muscle mass and energy. Arginine is used to produce urea, and when this happens, ornithine is created. Together they work to remove ammonia from the body. Arginine and ornithine can be added to your diet through food intake and supplements.
Step 1
Increase your intake of foods high in arginine and ornithine. These include nuts, beans, meats, fish, poultry, dairy products and eggs. According to MayoClinic.com, you should consume 10 to 35 percent of your daily caloric intake from proteins, which, based on a 2,000-calorie diet, would be 200 to 700 calories.
Step 2
Consult with your health care provider regarding the use of arginine and ornithine supplements. The addition of supplements may cause an increase in the levels of growth hormones and increase body mass and strength. Increased levels may also work to support immune function and the removal of toxins in the body. According to Nutros, a nutritional supplements knowledge database, the use of arginine and ornithine may also be useful in the treatment of wounds and injuries to the skin.
Step 3
Take arginine and ornithine supplements. Ornithine and arginine supplements should be taken in two divided doses for a period of five days, according to Nutros. One dose should be before exercise and the other before sleep and both should be taken on an empty stomach. Each dose should contain 250 mg of ornithine and 500 mg of arginine.
Things You'll Need
- Arginine supplements
- Ornithine supplements
Member Comments