Your circulatory system encompasses all of the components required to deliver blood and other fluids throughout your body, including the heart and blood vessels. With heart disease, high blood pressure, arterial blockages and other cardiovascular problems affecting so many Americans, treatment options are widespread and varied. One such treatment is L-arginine, also called arginine, which may help improve negative symptoms associated with some circulatory problems. Consult your doctor before trying L-arginine supplements.
L-arginine
L-arginine is one of 20 common amino acids in the human diet. You can get it by eating certain foods, such as meats, chicken, seafood and dairy products. It’s classified as a semiessential amino acid, according to MayoClinic.com, due to the fact the human body can normally produce enough of it but under extreme stress, such as injury or heavy weightlifting, may benefit from more of it. According to a 2005 review published in the journal “Pharmacological Reports,” L-arginine benefits the cardiovascular system in several ways and is a viable treatment option for some circulatory problems.
Effects
When L-arginine enters your body, it synthesizes to create the chemical nitric oxide (NO). According to Medline Plus, this chemical process causes the blood vessels to widen, also called vasolidation. Other effects of taking L-arginine supplements include increased release of human growth hormone (HGH) and insulin, making it an attractive supplement for bodybuilders and other athletes.
Treatments
The fact that L-arginine promotes vasolidation makes it an effective treatment option for several circulatory problems, including heart disease, arterial blockages, coronary artery disease, vascular headaches and chest pain. As your blood vessels widen due to nitric oxide's effect, it allows your blood to flow more efficiently throughout your circulatory system, even if there are blockages from arterial plaque and other obstructions.
Dosages
According to Medline Plus, the proper dosage of L-arginine varies depending upon the exact application. For instance, doses for treating coronary artery disease range from 3 to 6 grams taken three times per day. According to MayoClinic.com, the highest dose of arginine considered safe when consumed in one sitting is 6 grams. Your doctor will suggest a dosage schedule for you based on the treatment application, your age, gender, body weight and tolerance of the amino acid supplement.
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