Exploring How L-Glutamine Alleviates Carb and Alcohol Cravings
Discover how L-glutamine can reduce cravings for carbs and alcohol. Learn about its role in replenishing neurotransmitters and providing alternative energy for the brain, potentially easing withdrawal symptoms and promoting a balanced mood.
How does L-glutamine kill carb / alcohol cravings?
I read in a few places that supplementing l-glutamine to the tune of 5-10g a day can take the edge off of not only sugar but alcohol cravings. I tried it and I am effortlessly 50 days off of sugar / sweets / alcohol / beer / wine. What's the mechanism at work here?
L-glutamine is believed to help reduce cravings for carbohydrates and alcohol by interacting with neurotransmitter systems in the brain. When alcohol or sugar consumption is reduced, it can lead to a shortage of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which plays a crucial role in the brain's reward system1.
L-glutamine serves multiple purposes in this context. It can help replenish levels of key neurotransmitters and assist in maintaining a balanced mood. The amino acid is a precursor to glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, and can support the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter. This balance can mitigate withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with the reduction of alcohol and sugar intake1.
Furthermore, L-glutamine might serve as an alternative energy source for the brain, which reduces the desire for carbohydrates or sugars when their consumption is limited1.
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