ARGININE

What is arginine?                                                       

Arginine is an amino acid that possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Arginine plays a role in numerous biological processes [^[1]]. Typically, our bodies make all the arginine we need. We

What does arginine do in the body?

Arginine works as a vasodilator, which means that it enlarges blood vessels to promote blood flow. It can treat angina, high blood pressure, and peripheral artery disease [^[2]].

Arginine promotes nitric oxide formation, which increases blood flow and helps nerve cells talk to each other better [^[3]]. Nitric oxide also serves as an antiviral agent with anti-inflammatory effects, may regulate endothelial and respiratory systems, protect cells, and exhibit anti-thrombotic properties [^[1]], and reduces the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in the cytokine storm in severe COVID [^[4]].

How can arginine help alleviate certain Long COVID symptoms and pathophysiology? 

Research into Long COVID shows that long-hauler patients experience a variety of dysregulated cytokine processes long after the acute COVID-19 infection [^[4]].

Severe COVID-19 patients taking oral arginine supplements with their regular treatment required less respiratory support and less time in the hospital. Arginine also modulates inflammation and supports endothelial function, so researchers believe it may also help improve Long COVID symptoms [^[1]].

Together with the polyphenol hydroxytyrosol, arginine could prevent the formation of peroxy nitrate, a harmful substance involved in organ dysfunction in COVID-19 [^[3]].

Is arginine safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Arginine may cause complications during pregnancy, so it’s important to talk to your doctor to see if arginine supplementation could be right for you. It is also unclear whether arginine can be passed on to babies through breastmilk and what the effects might be [^[5]].