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  • The Wonders of Ark 1 Analysed by Dr Roderick Lane

    ArkworldThe Science of Ageing Article and Scientific

    Research

    What is different about ARK 1?

    Why is ARK1 (the L-arginine based ‘Pink Drink’) so important for resisting physical, structural and tissue ageing? Most of the research has been carried out on young athletes, because it is hard to find a group of over 60’s who want to be put through repetitive strain exercises and Wingate tests. Fatigue, muscle loss, lack of endurance, lack of physical flexibility are age related conditions. These ‘ageing’ conditions are only experienced by the young under extreme stress, which is why these tests are relevant and important.

    Throughout this paper you will find highlighted boxes, which identify exactly why each element in Ark1 is

    important for health, fitness and anti-ageing.

    You will find many L-arginine based supplements and studies on the web, but in many ways Ark 1 stands out. The key is, of course, as with all supplements quality and formulation, more commonly referred to as ‘stacking': ARK 1 one uses the known nutritional elements in the correct absorption ratios thereby enabling

    the L-arginine to be better absorbed and to last longer in the cardiovascular system thereby producing maximum function from the smallest dose possible of this natural amino acid. ARK 1 also combines arginine-alpha-ketoglutarate and L-arginine in the formula together they act synergistically and improve nitrogen function. ARK 1 is unique in its formulation, because it has everything required and a few things

    more better to achieve maximum function and efficiency. The L-arginine in ARK 1 is derived from soya and the supplement is entirely suitable for vegetarians and vegans as are all Arkworld products. The formulation of ARK1 is subject to a renewable formulation patent.

    Component overview and amino acid functions

    Supplement Information: Per 10g Serving (2 servings per day) %RDA

     Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid, calcium ascorbate) 500mg 833%

     Vitamin E (as dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate) 67mg 670%

     Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine HCI) 1mg 50%

     Folacin 200mcg 100%

     Vitamin B12 (as cyanocobalamin) 30mcg 3000%

     Pantothenic Acid (as calcium d-panthothenate) 10mg 166%

     Magnesium (as magnesium citrate) 42.5mg 14%

     L-Arginine 3000mg**

     Arginine-alpha-Ketoglutarate 250mg**

     L-Glutamine HCI 50mg**

     L-Leucine 50mg**

     L-Valine 25mg**

     Acetyl L-Carnitine 25mg**

     L-Carnitine Citrate 25mg**

     L-Citrulline 12.5mg**

     L-Cysteine 12.5mg**

     L-Isoleucine 7.5mg**

     Inositol 10mg**

     Betaine 2.5mg**

     Choline Bitartrate 25mg**

     Citrus Bioflavanoids 12.5mg**

     Alpha Lipoic Acid 12.5mg**

     Sodium 5mg <1%

    OTHER INGREDIENTS

    Maltodextrin, Fructose, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Beet Juice Powder

    By Chief Executive Scientist Jeff Golini

    Looking into the benefits of Arginine and/or Arginine-Alpha-Ketoglutarate, found in Arkworld

    Products in Scientific Literature

    Additional information on basic uses of amino acids contained in ARK 1

    L-Arginine over view

    Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a popular ingredient in many cell volumisers. AAKG contains both

    Arginine and Alpha-Ketoglutarate. Arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid that has a number of vital roles in human biochemistry and has an important role in protein synthesis. Alpha-Ketoglutarate is another important biological compound, used by the body to help with the creation of usable energy from carbohydrates, fats and protein. It combines with ammonia to create glutamic acid, a precursor of glutamine.

    Our AAKG is produced at a ratio of 2:1 (Arginine: Alpha-Ketoglutarate).

    Benefits

    The Alpha-Ketoglutarate compound helps improve the delivery of L-arginine in metabolic pathways.

    ARK1, as an anti-ageing tool, is critical as it increases blood flow and volume to all areas of the body both muscle, sinew, skin and individual cells. Increased delivery of blood means increased delivery of the nutrients that generate healthy tissue. NO (arginine derived nitrous oxide) is a very powerful
    vasodilator that increases the intensity and duration of the "pump" which is gained when working out (usually after heavy weights). Most AAKG users experience a visible increase in vascularity and pump. Our AAKG is produced at a ratio of 2:1 (Arginine: Alpha-Ketoglutarate).

    Studies

    There are several scientific research articles that indicate the benefits of either arginine-alphaketoglutarate or alpha-ketoglutarate alone in athletic performance. The following is just a sampling of some of the more recent articles.

    1). Arginine alpha-ketoglutarate, Creatine, amino acids, and mediumchain triglycerides on endurance and performance. College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.

    Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (A-AKG) found in ARKWORLD’S  ’ARK 1′ product is a precursor for nitric oxide
    production and has, as already noted, the potential to improve blood flow and nutrient delivery to the muscles, which in turn helps to increase muscle mass, strength and power from supplementations such as

    Creatine. This study compared a dietary supplement of Creatine, Glutamine, Taurine, branchedchain amino acids and medium-chain triglycerides with Arginine Alpha–Ketoglutarate and one without, on exercise performance and body composition. Thirty-five men (approximately 23 years of age) were randomized and studied in both situations for 10 days.

    As we age we tend to lose muscle mass, muscle flexibility and reduced endurance. As you can see

    ARK1 can increase endurance. Body composition, muscle endurance (bench press), and peak and average power (Wingate tests) were measured before and after supplementation. - Bench-press repetitions over 3 sets were increased significantly using Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate along with

    Creatine as opposed to using Creatine by itself

    Peak power and average power were also significantly increased over the time by including Arginine

    Alpha Ketoglutarate.

    The group of men combining Arginine Alpha-Ketogluterate (A-AKG) with the other ingredients such as

    Creatine in the dietary supplement also had a greater increase in total body mass opposed to those men that were not taking Arginine Alpha-Ketogluterate, with no significant changes in lean-tissue or fat mass.

    The combined nature of the formula increase physical output without extra physical training or fitness classes. These results suggest that using Arginine Alpha-Ketogluterate found in Arkworlds

    Ark 1 supplement in combination with Creatine improves upper body muscle endurance and improves peak power output on repeated Wingate tests at a much greater level than using Creatine or other supplements by themselves.

    Interesting and almost incredible results!

    Cellular regeneration is a key factor of muscle density, skin repair and rejuvenation as well as flexibility. The combination of Arginine and Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate with Micro Nutrition is a special formulation that is exclusive to Arkworld that also has the ability to increase the cellular healing and delivery mechanism within the body, which can add even greater to the results that an athlete may experience.

    Overview

    Alpha-Ketoglutarate

    Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a popular ingredient in many cell volumisers. AAKG contains both Arginine and Alpha-Ketoglutarate. Arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid that has a number of vital roles in human biochemistry and has an important role in protein synthesis. Alpha-Ketoglutarate is another important biological compound, used by the body to help with the creation of usable energy from carbohydrates, fats and protein. It combines with ammonia to create glutamic acid, a precursor of glutamine.

    Our AAKG is produced at a ratio of 2:1 (Arginine: Alpha-Ketoglutarate).

    Benefits

    The Alpha-Ketoglutarate compound helps improve the delivery of L-arginine in metabolic pathways.

    NO (Arginine derived nitric oxide) is a very powerful vasodilator that increases the intensity and duration of
    the "pump" which is gained when working out (usually after heavy weights). Most AAKG users experience a visible increase in vascularity and pump. Ark’s AAKG is produced at a ratio of 2:1 (Arginine: Alpha-Ketoglutarate).

    Studies

    2). Pharmacokinetics, safety, and effects on exercise performance of L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate in trained adult men.

    Exercise and Sport Nutrition Laboratory at the Center for Exercise, Nutrition, and Preventative Health

    Research, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA.

    OBJECTIVE:

    We evaluated the pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy of L-arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (A-AKG) found in ARKWORLD PRODUCTS in trained adult men.

    METHODS:

    Subjects participated in two studies that employed a randomized, double-blind, controlled design.

    In study 1: Ten healthy men (30-50 years of age) fasted for 8 hours and then ingested either 4 grams of time-released or non-timed-released Arginine Alpha Ketoglutamate( A-AKG). Blood samples were taken for 8 hours after A-AKG ingestion to assess the pharmacokinetic profile of L-arginine. After 1 week the alternative supplement was ingested.

    In study 2: In a placebo controlled study, 35 resistance-trained adult men (30-50 years of age) were randomly assigned to ingest 4 grams of Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutamate three times a day for a total of 12 grams daily. Participants performed 4 days of periodical resistance training per week for 8 weeks. At the beginning of the study, at the 4th week and at the 8th week of supplementation the following tests were performed: clinical blood markers, one repetition maximum bench press, isokinetic quadriceps muscle endurance, anaerobic power, aerobic capacity, total body water, body composition, and psychometric parameters tests. Data were analyzed by repeated measures analysis of variance.

    RESULTS:

    In study 1: Significant differences were observed in plasma Arginine levels in subjects taking non-timed – release and timed-release Arginine Alpha-Ketogluterate.

    In study 2: Significant differences were observed in the A-AKG group for bench press, Wingate peak power, blood glucose, and plasma Arginine.

    CONCLUSION:

    The ‘Stacked’ delivery mechanism ensured increased blood flow and oxygen delivery for up to eight hours. Most arginine formulas last no longer than an hour. This implies that ARK1 is eight times more effective than other popular supplements. Arginine Alpha-Ketogluterate (A-AKG) found in Arkworld’s Ark 1 supplementation appeared to be safe and well tolerated, and positively influenced the bench press and Wingate peak power performance.

    Overview

    Ornithine Alpha Ketoglutarate

    L Ornithine Alpha Ketoglutarate (OAKG) is a strong lean tissue building formula designed for the serious athlete.

    OAKG increases endurance, energy and lean mass, whilst slowing down fatigue, catabolism and the build up of unwanted fat. Add to this its ability to speed up recovery time and you can see why this is one of the most popular choices for sports people world-wide.

    L Ornithine Alpha Ketoglutarate is a nutritional supplement developed to help improve the athletic performance of athletes and sports persons. Many athletes and bodybuilders have reported extremely favourable improvements in decreasing the recovery time after surgery or injury.

    This remarkable ingredient is producing such excellent results that it is now used in France after surgery in order to improve healing times.

    TESTS

    3). Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate as a potent precursor of Arginine and Nitric Oxide: a new job for an old friend.

    Biochemistry Laboratory, Htel-Dieu Hospital-AP-HP and Laboratory of Biological Nutrition EA 2498,

    School of Pharmacy, Paris 5 University.

    Ornithine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (OKG), also used in the formulation process of Arkworld products, is a salt formed of 2 molecules of Ornithine and 1 part Alpha-Ketoglutarate. Its administration improves nutritional status in the chronically malnourished, for example in the extremely elderly and acutely malnourished patients (especially burn and trauma patients). There is evidence that OKG activity is not the simple addition of the effects of Ornithine and Alpha-Ketoglutarate, because the presence of both moieties is required to induce the generation of key metabolites such as glutamine, proline, and L-arginine, whereas this does not occur when one or the other is given separately.

    This observation is related to the fact that the main feature of Ornithine at the whole-body level is that it is metabolized through the Ornithine aminotransferase-dependent pathway, whereas the simultaneous administration of Ornithine and Alpha-Ketoglutamate saturates this pathway, diverting Ornithine towards metabolism into Arginine as found in Arkworld’s Ark 1.

    For years, OKG activity has been associated with its ability to induce the secretion of anabolic hormones, such as insulin and Human Growth Hormone, and to increase glutamine and polyamine synthesis. Recent studies using chemical inhibitors of Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS) suggest that NO (nitric oxide) derived from

    Arginine is involved in OKG activity.

    Ornithine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (OKG)administration improves nutritional status in the chronically malnourished, for example in the elderly and acutely malnourished patients (especially burn and trauma patients). The formula is show to have remarkable regenerative abilities on traumatized skin and tissue.

    In conclusion, this activity of Arginine Derived Nitric Oxide that can be produced from the Arginine and Arginine Alpha Ketogluterate found in Arkworld products is therefore highly effective as a supplement for athletes. The increase of the anabolic hormones such as insulin and human growth hormone produced from taking Arginine and A-AKG not only increases training performance in athletes, but also can help to increase blood flow, muscle mass, the post training healing process and recuperation along with endurance and its Anti-Aging properties as well. Something that all athletes need and look for!

    Overview

    Citrulline Malate

    Citrulline Malate is a unique combination of the amino acid L-citrulline and the organic salt malate that offers athletes a potential method of improving performance, delaying fatigue and accelerating recovery. It is particularly useful for people involved in high intensity exercise such as weight lifting and sprinting.

    They is a great deal of talk in the health and beauty world concerning ‘toxins’, but what many do not realize is that these toxins are the by-products of normal physiological function. Some of them, such as lactic acid, are used in the cancer cell generation process. Citrulline acts to remove endotoxins
    such as lactic acid build up and ammonia, by acting as an intermediary in the Urea Cycle. Elimination of these chemicals at a cellular level is a critical factor in health and longevity. Citrulline also aids in the removal of other toxins, besides lactic acid and ammonia, which are by-products of intense physical activity, such as protein metabolism and catabolic states. Unfortunately, these by-products can seriously hamper exercise performance, but Citrulline can go some way to reducing their impact on performance and overall harmfulness.

    Citrulline Malate can be used with Taurine to produce excellent pump and vascularity.

    4). Pharmacokinetics of Arginine and related amino acids found in Arkworld products.

    Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Htel-Dieu Hospital, and Laboratory of Biological Nutrition EA 2498,

    Faculty of Pharmacy, University Paris 5 Ren Descartes, Paris 75006, France.

    Arginine (ARG) and its related amino acids (AAs) Ornithine (ORN) and Citrulline (CIT) find a range of applications as dietary supplements in subgroups of healthy subjects (e.g., bodybuilders) and patients with acute or chronic malnutrition. These AAs appear to be well utilized in humans with, in general, a rapid return of blood concentrations to basal values and low absolute and relative excretion in urine. Based on published data for the maximum observed plasma concentrations (Cmax) after administration of doses in the range 5 to 10 grams, CIT (found in Arkworld’s Ark 1) was shown to present relatively better absorption and systemic bioavailability than ARG or ORN and add greatly to the absorption process.

    Comparison of these studies further indicates that CIT has higher bioavailability than ORN. The pharmacokinetics and metabolism of these AAs are modified by the co-administration of a salt such as

    Alpha-Ketoglutarate that modifies AA metabolism, as has clearly been demonstrated for ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate. Concomitant administration of a meal leads to a 15- to 30-min delay in Cmax. Finally, data from various pharmacokinetic studies together with basic physiology and biochemistry indicate that ARG is a net urea producer and ORN has a nitrogen-sparing effect, whereas CIT is neutral.

    * * * * * * *

    In conclusion, athletes, bodybuilders and sports people are always looking for increased performance and for better results from their chosen field. Using Arginine and Arginine Alpha

    Ketogluterate combined with Micro Nutrition found in the exclusive Arkworld products, as appear above can significantly increase that performance and results that they are looking for.

    As the sports and athletic world continue to find more advanced ways to succeed to a greater extent and increase their overall performance and results, one thing is for sure; the revolutionary discoveries to date that are behind the ARKWORLD PRODUCTS make them an incredible addition to any athletes training program and a must to stay ahead of the competition!

    Overview

    L-glutamine

    Glutamine is a key amino acid required by every muscle in the body, and is one of the most important building blocks in forming the proteins that maintain cellular health and tissue repair. Glutamine is found in varying amounts in most meat and fish and to lesser extent in vegetables and pulses. Anyone involved in high intensity training programmes designed for hypertrophy may find Glutamine a beneficial supplement.

    The body is able to manufacture L-glutamine in small amounts, but the greater part of it must come from the
    diet, or supplementation. It is required for hypertrophy and also plays an important role in repairing damaged tissue.

    Ageing is actually an endurance sport: consider how far you have walked in your entire lifetime - twice, three times around the world? Glutamine is considered useful to anyone undergoing training for endurance sports, such as long distance running or cycling, and can help to reduce the incidence of cramps caused through repetitive strain. Because Glutamine can help in this regard. It is also
    recommended as a natural alternative to chemical painkillers for elderly people, who suffer from cramps and regular muscle pain.

    Overview

    L-leucine

    L-leucine is an essential amino acid that is broken down into fat structures. Though an essential amino acid it cannot be made by the human body and, therefore, must be consumed through nutition. It can be found ins nuts, brown rice and whole wheat bread products or dietary supplements. In total, L-leucine is around 8% of the total amino acid count in your body's protein structures. Also, It is, or should be, the fourth most concentrated amino acid in your tissue.

    As one of the three essential BCAAs, L-leucine is essential to your basic health. The primary athletic functions of L Leucine are:

    Helps preserve lean tissue.

    Supplies your body with energy when under stress (i.e. when performing athletic activity).

    Preserves muscle glycogen (glucose which is stored in the muscle tissue used to power your movements).

    Maintains nitrogen balance.

    Enhances mental clarity when performing intense physical exercise.

    In a nutshell the effects of L-leucine in the diet are profound. It is the strongest of the BCAAs and is also what is known as a "limiting nutrient". This means you must have enough L -Leucine in proportion to other amino acids in order for your body to make full use of what you eat!

    Building blocks and regeneration of tissue is key to the human physiological process and anti-ageing is no exception to this. The older we get the more we need the regenerative process. If you don't have enough L-leucine in your diet your body will not be able to make use of the protein that you give it, regardless of how much protein you consume. More importantly, unless you have enough L-leucine in your diet the money you spend on quality food and supplements could be wasted. This actually means that the consumption of most straight protein supplements is actually a non-beneficial process as they will only be utilized as food in ratio to the L-leucine content of the body, most being expended as basic fuel and not used as building blocks.

    Over View

    L-valine essential amino acid

    L-valine is a branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) that works with the other two BCAAs, isoleucine and L-leucine, to promote normal growth, repair tissues, regulate blood sugar, and provide the body with energy.

    Valine helps stimulate the central nervous system, and is needed for sharp and acute mental function.

    Essential Amino Acids (EAA's) are required in order to build new tissue and help with cellular repair, which takes place when muscles are recovering. Getting the right amount within a diet helps athletes to improve their physique and also recover more quickly from exercise. The main essential amino acids required by the body are L-eucine, L-isoleucine, L-valine, L-lysine, L-phenylalanine, L-threonine, L-histidine, L-methionine and L-tryptophan. These can be found in small quantities in natural foods.

    We require all these different essential amino acids as part of our diet for a number of reasons, including cellular repair, but they are also required in order to get the most out of protein rich foods. If you do not get enough essential amino acids in your diet, the body will not extract the maximum nutrients from protein sources, and the calories in the protein will be stored as fat. The requirement for a balanced number of amino acids in the diet is referred to as 'limiting protein utilisation'.

    A deficiency of valine may affect the myelin sheath covering of the nerves, and cause degenerative neurological conditions. A good supplement will contain essential amino acids in the correct ratios.

    This will improve their uptake in the body and provide maximum nutritional benefit. Increasing the intake of essential amino acids will allow athletes to train at a higher intensity for longer thanks to the improved recovery offered by balanced nutritional intake.

    Over view

    L-cysteine

    L-cysteine is an amino acid that is closely related to Cystine. Cystine contains sulphur and is formed by two molecules of L-Cysteine. L-Cysteine is also a sulphur containing amino acid. It is used to manufacture L-glutathione and L-taurine.

    L-cysteine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning it can be synthesized by humans. Cysteine is found in many high protein foods, including chicken, pork, eggs, milk, cottage cheese, garlic, granola and onions.

    Benefits of L-cysteine

    L-cysteine is beneficial in numerous ways. It is important in detoxification and in the formation of skin, as well as the repair of hair and nail tissue. It is used in producing antioxidants and protects the brain and liver from damage due to the consumption of alcohol, drugs and cigarette smoke. L-cysteine helps defend against harmful toxins and protects the body from damage caused by radiation.

    Other benefits include reducing the effects of ageing. It also promotes healing of severe burns, fat burning and helps build muscle. Furthermore, L-cysteine promotes the activity of white blood cells. There are numerous other benefits including the effectiveness in treating bronchitis, angina and acute respiratory distress. L-cysteine helps to maintain optimal health and enhances immune system function.

    Cysteine Bodybuilding

    Bodybuilders’ immune systems are often compromised due to the amount of stress put on the body by performing strenuous endurance exercises. For this reason, supplementing with L-cysteine is recommended.

    L-cysteine is effective in building lean muscle tissue since it is a precursor to Taurine. It is important in detoxification (remember the harmful nature of lactic acid build up) and in skin repair. Cysteine is a key player in the flexibility and quality of your skin, hair and nails. When blood glucose levels are low, L-cysteine is effective in producing energy by converting glucose. This may help to prevent the breakdown of muscle tissue and enhance endurance in bodybuilding.

    Overview

    L-isoleucine

    L-isoleucine is one of the branched chain amino acids (L-isoleucine, L-valine, and L-leucine) and is classified as an essential amino acid. As already noted, this means the body cannot manufacture L-isoleucineand so must acquire it nutrition or supplementation. An average adult male’s daily requirement is 10 mg per kg of body weight.

    Uses/Benefits

    L-isoleucine is commonly used in parenteral and enteral nutrition. It is used in combination with the other branched chain amino acids to improve the nutritional status of patients with hepatic diseases. Isoleucine is actually broken down for energy within the muscle tissue. Is also keeps energy levels stable by helping to regulate blood sugar; a deficiency of isoleucine produces symptoms similar to those of hypoglycaemia, which may include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, depression, confusion, and irritability.

    BCAAs serve as important fuel sources for skeletal muscle during periods of metabolic stress;

    BCAAs may promote protein synthesis, suppress protein catabolism (muscle breakdown) and serve as substrates for gluconeogenesis. BCAAs are catabolised in skeletal muscle, stimulating the production of L-alanine and L-glutamine, among other substances.

    The Up Regulation of L-alanine as a result of L-Arginine use.

    L-alanine is a non-essential amino acid and plays a crucial role as a building block of important proteins.

    Mostly synthesised by the muscle cells from lactic acid it is considered the most important nutrient for the amino acid metabolism in the blood together with L-Glutamine. Once synthesised L-alanine is absorbed via the liver and converted to a pyruvate. This compound is critical for the production of glucose and hence blood sugar management.

    L-alanine supplements are therefore often used in cases of hypoglycaemia to prevent the organism from suffering low blood sugar or insulin shocks. They enable rapid energy delivery by stimulating the immediate release of glucose into the blood stream.

    Other important functions of this amino acid are the support of the immune system and prevention of kidney stones (often associated with high protein compound use). L-alanine is thus often as a remedy in orthomolecular medicine.

    Poor nutrition, a low protein diet, as well as stress- life, environmental factors, training schedules and exercise are stressful and can all cause an insufficiency of L-alanine. Such shortfalls should be compensated with dietary supplements with a level of urgency. Muscle endurance and strength may otherwise adversely affected and ongoing muscle atrophy (shrinkage), fatigue or faintness may result. When dosed appropriately however, L-alanine can be an effective nutrient supporting an intensive training regime and achieve effective muscle growth.

    L-alanine is easily washed away and lost in foods due to its strong hydrophilic (water soluble) properties. Foods with large amounts of L-alanine should therefore not be cooked or soaked for too long. Protein rich sources from animals are well suited as sources.

    Athletes, in particular, have a much larger need to supplement their amino acids in order rapidly to build muscle mass. They usually consume protein powder before and after training in order to make the protein rapidly available in the blood stream enabling the body to repair and grow its muscles. They should also include certain foods in their diet, which have high concentrations of L-alanine and other amino acids in order to guarantee an ample supply of these for them vital nutrients.

    L-alanine is a critical player in the body’s protein biosynthesis and has certain regulatory functionality.

    Muscle protein consists of approximately 6% of L-alanine. 30% of the L-alanine in the blood is synthesised by muscle, which demonstrates its importance to the overall metabolism. The L-alanine is absorbed from the blood in the liver and then converted to pyruvate. This enables a faster and more effective supply of energy when it is needed so that the body can perform longer at increased levels of intensity. Athletes therefore often supplement L-alanine in order to attain personal goals.

    Healthy immune system and kidneys

    Other important tasks of this non-essential amino acid are the support of the immune system and prevention of kidney stones. These stones can be produced by the body as a result of coalescence of insoluble toxic compounds, which L-alanine is able chemically to neutralise.

    L-alanine may therefore be used preventatively against kidney stones by individuals with a material family history. Also, kidney stones are a common problem for muscle developers due to the high loading of protein supplements.

    L-alanine is also an important reactant for glucagon because it will stimulate its production when he blood sugar is too low. Additionally, it will support the generation of glucose from other amino acids. 

    Studies have shown that prostate fluid has a high concentration of L-alanine may therefore protect the
    prostate gland itself from an irregular enlargement. A symptom of this is usually severe pain and problems
    during urination. This can usually be reduced by the consumption of dietary supplements containing L-alanine.

    It is therefore assumed that L-alanine can reduce the swelling of the gland’s tissue and even be used to treat prostate cancer.

    L-alanine combats illnesses

    The proteinogenic amino acid L-alanine has been successfully used to treat certain illnesses and is therefore used often in orthomolecular medicine. In addition to its ability positively to influence blood sugar it is also used frequently to prevent prostate cancer. Several studies have shown that L-alanine also stimulates the immune system, reduce inflammation and therefore helps to balance and stabilize the organism as a whole.

    A study showed in 2002 that there is an interrelationship between L-alanine and the secretion of insulin by the pancreas. When allowed to react with glucose it leads to an increased production and excretion of glucose therefore positively influencing diabetes. The metabolism of glucose is improved overall and symptoms can be reduced or eliminated altogether. This reduces possible complications of secondary conditions resulting from diabetes, significantly improving patients’ quality of life.

    A separate study demonstrated that the supplementing of L-alanine increases physical fitness when combined with exercise and protects from cardiovascular disorders. Over 400 individuals were asked to consume L-alanine supplements or placebos and the former group was shown to perform significantly better at exercise whilst displaying lower fat readings in the blood.

    Conclusion

    L-alanine plays a significant role in several metabolic processes and in regulating blood sugar. It can therefore be used not only against acute low sugar shocks, but is also it is able to stimulate insulin excretion in the pancreas and in doing so significantly improve the metabolism of glucose over longer periods of time.

    Other functions of this proteinogenic amino acid are the support of the ability to perform physically and build muscle mass. L-alanine supplements are therefore popular with athletes who are thus able to achieve increased performance.

    L-alanine can further contain the uncontrolled growth (cancer) of the pancreatic tissue and is thus used to treat both prostate cancer itself as well as its symptoms. Please see for instance:

    1. Müller W. A. et al: The effect of alanine on glucagon secretion; J Clin Invest. 2001; 50; S. 2215-2218

    2. Shiga H. et al: Amino acid therapy for hypertrophy of the prostate; Hinyokika Kiyo 2008; S. 625-632

    3. Brennan L, Shine A, Hewage C, Malthouse JP, Brindle KM, McClenaghan N, Flatt PR, Newsholme

    P. A nuclear magnetic resonance-based demonstration of substantial oxidative L-alanine metabolism and L-alanine-enhanced glucose metabolism in a clonal pancreatic beta-cell line: metabolism of L-alanine is important to the regulation of insulin secretion. Diabetes. 2002 Jun; 51(6):1714-21

    4. Walter AA, Smith AE, Kendall KL, Stout JR, Cramer JT. Six weeks of high-intensity interval training

    with and without L-alanine supplementation for improving cardiovascular fitness in women. J

    Strength Cond Res. 2010 May;24(5):1199-207

    Disclaimer: All information contained in this document was obtained form open sources freely available on the internet. The ingredients and prices of the products may vary from time to time. The above information is provided solely as a guide to the genuinely held belief in these products, and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your doctor or other health care professional, or for any information contained on or in any product label, guidance, or packaging. The products and the claims made about specific products in this document have not been evaluated and approved by Arkworld, or the United States Food and Drug Administration, or any other like administrative body in any country. The products themselves are approved for sale in the USA and the UK, but the products are not approved as medicines to prevent, diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for taking of any medication or other treatment. You should consult your doctor or other appropriate healthcare professional before commencing any therapy, diet, exercise or course of food/nutritional supplements, or medication, or if you have any reason to think you have any problem with your health.
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