subject: L-Arginine and Human Growth Hormone [print this page] L-Arginine (sometimes just called "Arginine") is a non-essential amino acid. It is called "non-essential" because the human body is capable of producing it. It is involved in many functions of the human body from the production of nitric oxide, to removing ammonia, to releasing hormones. It is a powerful immune system stimulator, and helps the body recover more quickly from wounds. Human growth hormone (HGH) is a hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and regeneration. It is synthesized, stored, and secreted by the pituitary gland.
Recently, Arginine has been shown to be effective at releasing human growth hormone (HGH) into the body. According to scientists, L-arginine promotes the release of growth hormone release by inhibiting somatostatin (GHIH, Growth Hormone Inhibiting Hormone); stopping the hormone that stops HGH results in the release of more HGH. As far as supplements are concerned, L-Arginine is the most effective HGH releaser for men between the ages of 25 to 45 years old.
Arginine is best when taken on an empty stomach, on a regular basis. The effects of L-Arginine are reduced when it is taken with foods that cause other amino acids or insulin to be in the bloodstream, which interfere with Arginine's function. Unfortunately, results are very unpredictable; with different people having much different results. Men in their 20's had the most success with Arginine with regards to the release of HGH. Men in their 40's and 50's also had noticeable success, however not as great. Overall, Arginine is a good supplement for men of all ages because it helps with so many different bodily functions ranging from improved circulation, to sexual health (nitric oxide vasodilation and increased blood flow), to immune function, to growth hormone release.
