Glutamine immunity on gut immune system

Immune system in the gut? Glutamine for gut immunity?

Lets first discuss immunity especially gut health and immunity.

Did you know that as much as 25-75% of our immune system is located inside our gastrointestinal system? Immune system is spread throughout body in an effort to have immune defenses all around for our protection. In fact, it is one of the largest organ systems in our body and serves to protect us from forces outside as well as within.

In addition to our GI immune system, our non-immune defenses include the gut flora, physical barrier between the luminal contents and inside of our body, chemical barrier as well as gut motility that helps to keep things moving down and out as in good sanitation.

The intestinal wall acts as a barrier to the noxiuos luminal contents. It is also involved in transport of nutrients. At the same time, intestinal wall is also helping with immunological surveillance since the gut is constantly exposed to injurious agents like toxins etc.

Based on above, dietary modifications by altering the intestinal milieu have potential to alter the expression of genes in the epithelium.

What does glutamine have to do with immunity? Additional glutamine may be one way to boost one’s immunity. Studies have documented that feeding additional glutamine can improve immune function, reduce complications and hospital stay and perhaps improve survival in sick patients. The results are best seen when glutamine is combined with other immune-nutrients.

How does glutamine work? It is an energy source for immune cells as well as gut enteroicytes. It is required for synthesis of nucleotides and proteins etc. In addition, it enhances T and B-cell function, facilitates phagocytosis as well as bacterial killing.

Do you believe in nutritional supplements? Do you take glutamine or any other nutritional supplements? Does this article change your mind in any way? Please share your thoughts.