There are many potential benefits associated with using glutamine powder and very few side effects. Some of the benefits of glutamine powder may include appetite suppression, reduced soreness after workouts, and improved immune function. Side effects of glutamine powder are typically related to its potential to negatively interact with drugs used for cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy drugs. Glutamine could also negatively affect kidney function in people who already have kidney problems. The powder is additionally not considered effective when dissolved inside hot water because the heat can destroy it.
People often take glutamine powder when they are trying to lose weight and become healthier. It is possible that the powder may help with appetite suppression, particularly when cravings for sugar arise. People who are trying to lose weight might also benefit from glutamine powder when they are working out regularly because the powder is known for reducing some of the muscle soreness that is typical after a workout. The powder might also make it possible to work out for longer periods of time because the need to stop due to muscle aches and pains may not be as pressing.
Glutamine could additionally aid in improving the body's immune system function. Many hospitals give glutamine powder to their patients who have either endured some type of severe bodily trauma or who have undergone surgery, because the powder tends to help speed up recovery time, which also occasionally results in shorter hospital stays. The average person produces a lot of cortisol after any type of stressful situation occurs, particularly if an injury was experienced. Too much cortisol in the blood stream can eliminate glutamine, which could have a detrimental effect on how fast a person heals. Doctors occasionally advice their patients to continue taking glutamine for a few weeks after they have been released from the hospital to help speed up recovery time at home.
There are very few known glutamine powder side effects, but some doctors advise their cancer patients to avoid taking it because it could have a negative impact on the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs. Glutamine powder may also be harmful for people who have problems with their kidneys, although some doctors do allow their kidney patients to take glutamine in reduced doses. People who are on any type of prescription medicine should probably ask their doctors before taking glutamine just to be sure that it won't interact negatively with what they are taking.