If you paid attention in your chemistry classes, you should know that amino acids are the “building blocks” of our bodies. They form proteins and therefore help the body to carry out crucial processes — from repairing tissues to keep the immune system functioning properly.
There’s just one problem: the average person is no longer eating a diet that gives them enough amino acids (just as most of us are also disregarding other key nutrients). Recent research suggests that we need even more protein and amino acids than previously believed, yet most of us are consuming less than ever.
Our bodies require nine amino acids to sustain themselves; without these, we eventually risk death. However, there are 20 amino acids in total, and consuming as many as possible will improve our biological functions.
Some evidence suggests that providing our bodies with higher quantities than typically recommended can help to boost fat loss, aid mental functioning, increase energy, and even cut down on inflammation.
There are three compounds in particular that have been found to achieve these ends: glutamine, arginine, and carnitine (GAC). Glutamine and arginine are both amino acids, while carnitine is derived from amino acids but not an amino acid itself — and all three compounds have been proven as safe, even when consumed in large doses.
Whether you’re deficient in amino acids or you simply want to enhance your body’s biological functioning, cluing yourself up on these compounds could be a smart move.
Glutamine
As a conditionally essential amino acid, our bodies may require glutamine during critical points (such as when we’re ill or our muscles are wasting).
Glutamine is the fuel of choice for the immune system and a few tissues in the intestines, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it enhances immune functioning and helps to repair the lining of the intestines. It may also cut down on muscle loss, benefit our cardiovascular system, and increase endurance, in addition to a host of other potential benefits.
Arginine
Like glutamine, arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid — we need it to aid nitric oxide production. However, it also has a range of other advantages, such as improving blood pressure, producing creatine in the body (needed for cellular energy production), and preventing fatigue.
Meanwhile, arginine deficiency is associated with worsened neuromuscular function, immune system function, and muscle growth.
Evidence shows we can safely consume around 20 grams of arginine every day without a risk of toxicity.
Carnitine
Unlike the two compounds outlined above, carnitine isn’t an amino acid — but it is made from two other amino acids (lysine and methionine). Consuming it helps increase fat oxidative capacity and, therefore, metabolize more fat, helping us lose weight. It can also increase energy.
Even better, there are no known side effects, so carnitine is a great option for those hoping to lose weight or exercise more efficiently.
How to use GAC injections
Most people take one GAC injection 2-3 times per week, at a dosage of 1mL.
As with all injections, you should thoroughly clean the vial and injection site with rubbing alcohol to ensure that everything is sanitary.
Get started with GAC
As mentioned already, all evidence suggests that GAC injections are extremely safe with almost no side effects, even in larger quantities. After all, the compounds all occur naturally in the body.
However, you should still take care to ensure the ingredients you source are genuine and high-quality. Also, be sure to supplement them with protein from your diet.
