May help to manage type 2 diabetes
Glutamine is the physiological precursor of arginine for the production of nitric oxide (NO), whose creation in β-cells potentiates insulin secretion [12]. Furthermore, glutamine creates the main source of glutamate for the production of glutathione, which is essential in reducing oxidative stress, which eventually results in maintaining inflammatory processes within β-cells in diabetes [12]. Moreover, in improving the glucose profile, L-glutamine has a positive effect on glucose oxidation and insulin resistance [13]. Oral L-glutamine enhances the circulation of gastrointestinal incretin hormones (glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and stimulated insulin release as well as reduced (postprandial) glycemia in diabetes mellitus [14, 15].
However, some human and animal studies suggest that glutamine enhances insulin sensitivity, improving your body’s ability to use insulin efficiently. This may aid weight loss, as impaired insulin sensitivity is likely tied to a higher risk of weight gain and obesity (3 Trusted Source, 14, 15 Trusted Source, 16 Trusted Source).