A supplement once popular predominantly among men is now gaining traction on social media. Enter arginine, an amino acid component of proteins known for boosting male vitality. But is it exclusively beneficial for men?
The Men’s Go-To Supplement: Does it Work for Women Too?
Contrary to popular belief, there’s no evidence suggesting that arginine favors men. Fundamentally, arginine is an ingredient approved as an adjunct therapy for mental and physical fatigue symptoms or during the recovery phase from an amino acid deficiency.
Excellent for Fatigue and Swelling Management
For women, arginine can aid in post-exercise fatigue management and swelling reduction. Especially for swellings due to poor circulation. However, it’s crucial to check the recommended dose as it varies per product. Also, be wary of products that exaggerate the arginine content; always verify the exact content before purchasing.
Boosts Workout Efficiency
Arginine, already well-known among fitness enthusiasts, acts as a booster. By aiding the removal of lactic acid accumulated post-exercise and reducing total oxygen consumption, arginine benefits athletes and enhances the general public’s workout efficiency and work productivity.
Popularly Sold as a Fatigue Recovery Supplement
Arginine facilitates vascular relaxation and blood circulation improvement. It also assists in post-surgery recovery and prevents muscle atrophy in older people. Thanks to these benefits, which positively affect nutrient delivery and waste removal, it’s a go-to for fatigue management. Hence, it’s frequently sold at pharmacies. If you seek more effectiveness, consulting a pharmacist and purchasing medical-grade arginine, even if pricier, could be beneficial.
Avoid High Dosages
Some, eager for quick benefits, opt for high-dose products. This is ill-advised. Our bodies only absorb the necessary amount of arginine, excreting the rest. While some situations may warrant a high dose, experts generally recommend a daily intake of 1000mg (about 0.035 ounces).
People Who Should Be Cautious
Arginine should be approached as a mere supplement, not a primary medication. Given its vasodilating effect, those with heart diseases like angina, anemia, or low blood pressure should exercise caution. If you’ve ever had allergic reactions to arginine or digestive issues post-consumption, it’s best to avoid it.
Can It Cause Hair Loss?
Claims suggest arginine-induced hair loss due to its stimulation of growth hormones, which might impact male hormones and lead to ‘hormonal male pattern baldness.’ However, experts contest this because hormone-induced hair loss is mostly irreversible.
Possible Side Effects
Overdosing on arginine can lead to symptoms like vomiting, dizziness, and abdominal bloating. It’s recommended to consume on an empty stomach for better absorption, but adjusting the dosage or switching to liquid forms can help if this leads to severe digestive issues.
Consuming Arginine Through Food
Arginine-rich foods include meats like beef and pork, poultry like chicken, dairy products, and soybeans. For instance, 100g of soybeans contains 2800mg (0.099 ounces) of arginine, while beef or pork has about 1300mg (0.046 ounces) in 100g.
Nutrients to Consume Alongside Arginine
Given arginine’s low absorption rate, combining it with other nutrients can amplify benefits. Zinc plays a direct role in metabolism and male hormone production, enhancing the effects of arginine. Beet juice can complement arginine’s results by improving blood flow and maximizing muscle growth.
By. Jeon Sin-young (press@daily.co.kr)
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