No specific studies exist that examine the benefits of glutamine in older people compared to other age groups. Glutamine has a number of clinical applications, but it is not well known whether glutamine works the same way in elderly people. Some potential effects would be considered beneficial for older adults, but you should also take some precautions. Consult your physician before taking glutamine.
Background
Glutamine is a conditionally essential amino acid, meaning your body typically makes enough under normal circumstances. During stress, illness or trauma such as surgery, however, your body can require more glutamine than it can make. Glutamine is commonly used for wound healing, recovery from illness and to improve intestinal function. A prescription form of glutamine is used to treat short-bowel syndrome. Elderly people might benefit from glutamine supplementation, but physician supervision is recommended.
Intestinal Permeability
As people age, their intestinal lining becomes increasingly permeable, leaving elderly people more vulnerable to malnutrition than younger adults. Intestinal permeability decreases the amount of nutrients absorbed from food and increases the capacity for toxins to get into your bloodstream. In animal models, glutamine supplementation decreases intestinal permeability, preserves intestinal mucosa (mucous membrane) and prevents bacterial migration, according to a study published in the July 2010 issue of the "Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition." Although human studies are needed, the nutritional implications for elderly people are promising.
Oxidative Stress
Glutamine supplementation is known to reduce oxidative stress by increasing glutathione -- your body's primary antioxidant. Elderly people are more susceptible to and affected by oxidative stress, which is associated with disease development. In addition, oxidative stress is independently associated with frailty in elderly people, contributing to exhaustion, weight loss and general weakness, according to a cross-sectional study published in the September 2009 issue of the "Journal of the American Geriatrics Society."
Safety
Older adults typically have decreased kidney function, which can make it more challenging to metabolize glutamine. You might not be able to handle the typical dose recommended for younger adults. Your doctor can recommend a dose based on your specific situation. It is best to avoid glutamine if you have kidney disease. Common glutamine side-effects include nausea, constipation and hoarseness. Talk to your doctor and discontinue use if you experience serious side-effects, including dizziness or fainting.
References
- Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition: Glutamine Supplementation Decreases Intestinal Permeability and Preserves Gut Mucosa Integrity in an Experimental Mouse Model
- Journal of the American Geriatrics Society: High Oxidative Stress is Correlated with Frailty in Elderly Chinese
- MayoClinic.com: Glutamine Side Effects
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Glutamine
- Molecular Genetics and Metabolism: Glutamine, as a Precursor of Glutathione, and Oxidative Stress
- Nutrition: The Safety of Oral Use of L-glutamine in Middle-aged and Elderly Individuals
