Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body, comprising more than 60% of the free amino acid pool in skeletal muscle and more than 20% of total circulating amino acids. This conditionally essential amino acid is extremely important in overall health, athletics and in building and maintaining muscle. For example, hormones destructive to muscle and brain tissue are released at times of stress and increase the demand for free glutamine. And, during conditions of calorie restriction or dieting glutamine and BCAA's act to stave off catabolic hormones and prevent muscle wasting. The majority of nitrogen lost from calorie restriction and dieting occurs when levels of glutamine in the body are insufficient. Therefore, glutamine supplementation can be used to reverse this condition by promoting nitrogen retention and preventing muscle loss and immune system down regulation. Additionally, glutamine can also increase anabolism (muscle building) by increasing muscle cell volume. Just two grams of glutamine has been shown in research studies to increase growth hormone levels by over 400% and also repair and maintain the integrity of the intestines. Research indicates that the metabolic requirement for glutamine is greatly increased during times of stress such as fasting, injury and/or intense athletic training. Further, the immune system depends on glutamine as a primary fuel source and consequently, the demand for this amino acid increases during periods of immunological stress. It is important for consumers to note that in purchasing a glutamine supplement, quality should be considered over price. Cheaply priced glutamine is generally indicative of low quality raw materials used in the manufacturing process. With Ultra Pure Glutamine by VPX, you can be assured that you are getting the highest quality free form glutamine available.