4Ever Fit: L-Arginine

L-arginine is a protein amino acid present in the proteins of all life forms. It is classified as a semi-essential or conditionally essential amino acid. This means that under normal circumstances the body can synthesize sufficient L-arginine to meet physiological demands. Arginine is considered to be key to efficient muscle metabolism because of its role in the transport, storage, and elimination of nitrogen.* Creatine is derived from arginine, as are guanidophosphate and phosphoarginine, all of which have roles in muscle metabolism. After a vigorous workout, the body has increased testosterone and HGH production for a period lasting approximately two hours. During this timeframe, dietary arginine and ornithine may contribute to a hormonal environment that promotes increased protein synthesis and muscle growth.*