ARGININE & ORNITHINE

Two of the building blocks of protein, arginine and ornithine are reported to be able to stimulate the release of human grow hormone (HGH).  HGH is a pituitary hormone that signals fat cells to be burned and muscles to be built.  As we approach the age of thirty the release of  HGH slows considerably.  It is hoped that "hard to lose" groups - people over 30 and overweight individuals with slow metabolisms will benefit from HGH release as an approach to weight control.

Perhaps even greater importance of growth hormone is it's ability to improve the body's resistance to disease by stimulating the immune system.  Growth hormone acts on the thymus gland to improve it's ability to process T-cell effectors and B-cell lymphocytes.  T-cells and B-cells are the major components of your body's immune system, they selectively engulf and destroy invading viruses, bacteria's and other foreign chemicals.  This effect of arginine retards the growth of tumors and cancer therefore may benefit those suffering from AIDS and other malignant diseases that suppress the immune system.  It is also very good for liver disorders such as cirrhosis and fatty liver; it aids in liver detoxification by neutralizing ammonia.

Seminal fluid contains arginine.  Studies suggest that sexual maturity may be delayed by arginine deficiency; implying that arginine is useful in treating sterility in men.  It is found in high concentration in the skin and connective tissues, making it helpful for healing and repair of damaged tissue.

Arginine is a component of collagen and aids in building new bone and tendon cells; scar tissues which form during wound healing is made up of collagen, which is rich in arginine.

Those with viral infections such as herpes should avoid L-arginine in supplements, and should avoid foods rich in arginine, including carob, chocolate, coconut, and dairy products.

The supplement L-ornithine works synergistically with L-arginine within the body at approximately one half the dosage of L-arginine, for it is synthesized  from arginine.  Ornithine serves as a precursor of citrulline, proline and glutamic acid. Ornithine is necessary for proper immune system and liver function, also detoxifies ammonia and aids in liver regeneration.

Supplemental dosages of 20 to 30 grams per day are considered safe, but not exceeding 30 grams, although available in food, it is not released quickly enough as the food is digested to stimulate secretion of growth hormone from the pituitary.  The supplemental doses taken on an empty stomach will arrive at the blood-brain barrier without competition.  Then growth hormone secretion will be stimulated. L-arginine and L-ornithine supplements should be avoided by children, pregnant or lactating women.  Persons with schizophrenia should avoid amounts over 30 milligrams daily.

These two supplements, when used properly may hold the potential to dramatically alter the health status of our nations population, a welcoming thought.