Function of L-Alanyl-L-Glutamine in athletic supplement

Maintaining hydration levels is a vital part of our well-being. When we push our bodies and minds to the limit, the need to stay hydrated increases. The reality of exercise and sport, however, is that it is not always easy to maintain our hydration levels. Changes in physiological function occurring during a body water deficit may result in significant decrements in performance, cognitive function and fine motor control during exercise. This may be due to the magnitude of the body water deficit. Rehydration strategies are important to prevent these deleterious effects in performance. [1]. 

L-Alanyl L-Glutamine is a dipeptide with a glutamine amino group joined to an alanyl residue, and this amino acid helps the body rehydrate, replenish and recover from high intensity exercise, improves intestinal health and enhances the immune system. L-Alanyl L-Glutamine 's unique bonded structure allow it to be rapidly absorbed by the body, meaning the amino acids get to the muscles faster [2]. 

So, how do L-Alanyl L-Glutamine has these functions? Tests on rodents suggest L-alanyl-L-glutamine is more successful at increasing muscular glutamine levels after supplementation than glutamine itself. This is because glutamine is absorbed better via the liver and intestines after supplementation. Since L-alanyl-L-glutamine is a dipeptide molecule, it means that it contains more than one amino acid for the intestines to absorb, allowing glutamine to reach the muscles. 

Adding L-alanyl-L-glutamine to any rehydration solution will be significantly more effective at increasing water and electrolyte absorption than consuming either a glutamine or glucose-containing solution. It enhances water and electrolyte absorption in the intestines and also stimulates glycogen synthesis, inhibits muscle protein breakdown and supports muscle protein synthesis. L-Alanyl L-Glutamine has also been shown to enhance nutrient absorption by protecting the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract.

Clinical trials demonstrate it increases nitrogen retention and weight gain, while decreasing muscle and whole-body protein breakdown. This all results in better gains, decreased soreness and quicker recovery [3].

Often times, individuals will supplement with free form L-Glutamine to accelerate recovery, however, taken on its own, Glutamine has poor bioavailability in the body. Pairing glutamine with alanine enhances the bioavailability of glutamine and allows it to pass through the stomach intact and make it to the intestines where it can be absorbed and more effectively do its job. So Sustamine is a unique, revolutionary dipeptide form of L-Glutamine and is designed to be ingested in energy drinks, nutritional bars, yogurts and dietary supplements. It is taste-free, odor-free, allergen-free and Kosher. Sustamine consists of L-Alanyl-L-Glutamine, which means it offers a combination of pure L-Glutamine to support muscle protein synthesis and L-Alanine to help rebuild glycogen stores.