Other info:
Glutamine is highly in demand throughout the body. It is used in the gut and immune system extensively to maintain optimal performance. 60% of free-form amino acids floating in skeletal muscles is glutamine. glutamine plays a very important role in protein metabolism, and it appears to be a very important nutrient for body builders. When supplemented, it may help body builders reduce the amount of muscle deterioration that occurs because other tissues that need glutamine will not rob the glutamine stored in the muscle cells.

There are ongoing arguments regarding Glutamine making it past the gut and into the muscle stores. Those that argue against it's effectiveness when asked about how it makes it to the muscle claim that is doesn't. They hold to the fact that there is no evidence (meaning citations in medical journals). "When asked how does the muscle have Glutamine stores to begin with are they still there from birth?" They simply stumble and cannot give a clear answer and refer back to the fact that there is no antidotal evidence.

What they fail to realize or understand is the mechanism that which oral glutamine gives tens of thousands of individuals beneficial effects isn't a direct rise in plasma Glutamine levels. It's effects are through buffering and protecting Glutamine stores in muscle tissue and bio-processes and through the mechanism much like L-Alanine however through renal glucose dispersion versus liver glucose dispersion as with L-Alanine.

Research shows that after intensely working out, glutamine levels in the body are reduced by as much as 50%. Since the body relies on glutamine as cellular fuel for the immune system, scientific studies have shown that glutamine supplementation can minimize the breakdown of muscle tissue and improve protein metabolism. Its effects on replenishing the body after stress or trauma have been shown in Europe where it is commonly given to patients in hospitals. Glutamine's cell-volumizing effects have also been shown in several studies. No conclusive studies have been done to evaluate the effects of glutamine supplementation on weight-training adults; however, a recent study showed up to a 400% increase in growth-hormone levels when as little as 2 grams of free-form glutamine supplement was consumed!

3. Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?

Bodybuilders can particularly gain from the intake of glutamine. Since bodybuilders use a lot of their glutamine when working out, they are more susceptible to health related problems, as the immune system relies heavily on this amino acid.

Catabolism or muscle break down can occur if the body robs muscles of glutamine for use elsewhere such as nitrogen transport or maintaining the immune system. Glutamine supplementation is certainly important in keeping muscles building--not deteriorating.

4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?

Bodybuilders can benefit by taking ten grams of glutamine per day, although clinical studies have not determined a precise amount for muscle metabolism optimization.

There are no side effects associated with glutamine, because it is a nutrient naturally occurring in the body. Reports of an upset stomach are associated with ingesting a great deal of glutamine, using smaller doses is recommended if this occurs.