What Are the Benefits of Glutamic Acid

Glutamic acid is a common amino acid and considered nonessential because it can be synthesized in the body, specifically in your brain where by it functions because a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger. As such, glutamic acid is considered "brain fuel" and important for increased head functions. It is also important for muscle function, specifically progress along with reduced recovery time. Further, glutamic acid is needed to remove toxic ammonia from the brain and muscles. By interacting with ammonia, glutamic acid converts into glutamine and becomes a powerful antioxidant.

Brain Functions
As a neurotransmitter, glutamic acid appears to support mental functioning, including boosting IQ, enhancing alertness, balancing mood and preventing senility. Glutamic acid is also needed, along with vitamin B6 and manganese, to form GABA, another important neurotransmitter. One of the first studies on glutamic acid in 1952 found that mentally challenged teenage boys who were given glutamic acid for 10 months responded well and almost half increased their IQ scores by up to 11 points. A Boston University study published in a 2010 edition of "Experimental Neurology" found that people with Parkinson's disease have significantly lower levels of glutamic acid in their Glutamic acid may also play roles in schizophrenia, depression, addiction and alcoholism.

Muscle Functions
Glutamic acid is of particular interest to athletes, especially bodybuilders, because it is involved in the regeneration and recovery of damaged muscle cells following periods of intensive exertion. Over 60 percent of the amino acids found within skeletal muscle is L-glutamine, which is derived from glutamic acid's catabolism of ammonia. L-glutamine is needed for protein metabolism, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Further, glutamic acid is an intermediary in cellular metabolism and energy production, which is why it helps reduce fatigue. Due to its effect on muscle cells, glutamic acid may prove effective in the treatment of muscular dystrophy and other muscle wasting conditions.
Other Benefits
Major sums of glutamic acid are found within the prostate gland and its secretions, and are viewed as vital for standard functionality. According to the text "Human Biochemistry and Disease," research points too supplementing involving glutamic acid solution, together with alanine and glycine, lessens signs and symptoms that face men together with benign prostate related progress. Low levels of glutamic acid have also been linked to recurring kidney stone formation. Further, glutamine is a component of glutathione, which is a powerful antioxidant that protects blood vessels and other tissues from harmful free radicals.
Sources of Glutamic Acid

Glutamic acid is naturally abundant in both animal and plant protein sources. Turkey, pork, cottage cheese and sunflower seeds are especially rich sources, as cited in the "American Dietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide." Commercially, glutamic acid, or its salt-form glutamate, is added in high levels to chicken broth, soy products and fried chicken. Glutamic acid can be taken as a supplement, and dosages for athletes typically range from 500 to 2,000 mg daily. Because glutamic acid has gentle stimulatory consequences, it is recommended that supplements be taken previously inside time with out foods.