Glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in the body. It is produced by the muscles, and is transported by blood to the organs that need it. Glutamine helps in the functioning of the digestive organ system, the immune system and many key processes in the body, especially in stressful circumstances. Glutamine is needed for the production of many other important compounds in the body, such as other amino acids and glucose (sugar).
Most of the glutamine is stored in the muscles, and a part in the lungs, where most of this amino acid is produced.
It is involved in many metabolic processes and is the main carrier of nitrogen in the body, which is why it is an important source of energy for cells. If the body uses more glutamine than it can produce, as is the case in stressful circumstances, muscle breakdown occurs.
