L-Glutamine Causes Changes in the Gut Bacteria That Mimic Weight Loss

Is Your Gut Nourished?

The probiotics market in America has exploded in the last few years, and market forecasters predict even more growth in coming years. It’s encouraging to see that Americans are beginning to take control of their health by nourishing the gut with healthy bacteria.
It’s equally saddening, however, to note that around 70 million adults suffer from digestive issues in the United States alone. While probiotics are a no-brainer when it comes to keeping your digestive system happy, there’s still so much folks can do to take care of their bellies.

L-Glutamine Found to Induce Weight Loss in Overweight People

One of the other big players for gut health that doesn’t get nearly the attention it deserves is the amino acid L-glutamine. A recent study published in the journal Nutrition reported that a daily L-glutamine dose of 30 grams was correlated with a significant improvement in the ratio of healthy to unhealthy gut bacteria in both overweight and obese people. The ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (types of bacteria) is considered a biomarker of obesity.

Researchers randomly assigned 33 overweight and obese adults between the ages of 23 and 59 to receive either L-glutamine or L-alanine (another amino acid) for two weeks. At the end of the study, the L-glutamine group exhibited changes in the gut microbiota that resembled the effects of weight loss.

Another Key to Bacterial Bliss: Reducing Inflammation

How does it work its magic? Scientists suggest that L-glutamine may protect the gut by reducing the presence of inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are known to affect the bacterial profile of the intestines by tipping the balance of gut bacteria in favor of the bad guys.

This study shows that not only is L-glutamine an amazing nutrient for reversing bacterial imbalances in the gut, it may also promote weight loss.