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Arginine
Amino acid
Arginine is one of the urea cycle amino acids. It plays an important role in the conversion of
ammonia from protein breakdown, into urea which can be excreted via the
kidneys, and it stimulates the activity of the enzyme which starts off
the process. Arginine is also a component of antidiuretic hormone, a
hormone which reduces the excretion of water by the kidneys.
Many people take arginine (together with another amino acid,
ornithine) as a body-building supplement. There is some evidence that
supplementation with these amino acids may stimulate the release of
growth hormone, which is responsible for increasing muscle bulk, and
also insulin. Arginine-rich foods include nuts, peanuts, seeds,
chocolate and grains (cereals).
Vegetarian sources: Weight for weight, peanuts, tofu, pumpkin seeds, almonds, sunflower seeds and brazil nuts are as rich in arginine as animal proteins.
Availability
of supplements: Arginine supplements are widely available in health
shops.
Suggested dosage for
body-building: 2 grams of arginine and 2 of ornithine on an empty
stomach before retiring, and 2 grams on an empty stomach prior to
vigorous exercise. 100 mcg of a chromium supplement may also be helpful.
Arginine supplementation should be avoided in cases of schizophrenia and
herpes virus.
Arsenic
Toxic element
Food and drink levels of arsenic are limited by
law, due to its toxicity, although arsenic was once used as a treatment
for syphilis. Symptoms of chronic arsenic poisoning include fluid
retention in the face and eyelids, itching, sore mouth, loss of
appetite, nausea and vomiting, loss of hair and fingernails.
Traces of arsenic are found in shellfish, and some meat may also
contain arsenic if it was present in the animals' feed. Arsenic
compounds are used as insecticides which can leach into the water table
and thence into reservoirs, as well as remaining in trace amounts in
food crops.
Excessive levels of arsenic in the human body can be tested for
by hair mineral analysis.
Adapted from the Nutritional Health Bible by Linda Lazarides Download the whole database |
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