Instalab

High Quality L-Glutamine Supplements

L-glutamine fuels gut and immune cells and supports recovery.

L-Glutamine
Thorne
L-Glutamine
90 capsules
$26.00
L-Glutamine Powder
Thorne
L-Glutamine Powder
513 grams
$67.00

L-Glutamine FAQs

What does L-glutamine do?

L-glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body and the primary fuel for intestinal cells (enterocytes) and immune cells. It supports gut barrier integrity, post-surgical recovery, and immune function during heavy training or stress.

How much L-glutamine should I take?

5 g once or twice daily for general support. Clinical doses for severe gut issues range up to 30 g/day under guidance. Mix into water; it's tasteless.

Are there cautions?

People with cancer or a history should avoid high-dose glutamine without oncology input. People with kidney or liver disease should also consult a clinician.

Will L-glutamine help leaky gut?

Yes, this is one of its best-studied uses. Glutamine is the main fuel for enterocytes (gut lining cells) and helps tighten junctions between them. Doses of 5–15 g/day for 4–8 weeks reduce intestinal permeability markers in trials, especially when paired with zinc and gut-soothing herbs.

L-glutamine vs. glutamine peptides — which is better?

Free-form L-glutamine is what most studies use and is well-absorbed when fresh. Glutamine peptides (alanyl-glutamine) are more stable in liquids and slightly better absorbed in critically ill patients. For typical daily use, L-glutamine powder is fine and cheaper.

When should I take L-glutamine?

For gut healing: on an empty stomach (15–30 min before meals or at bedtime) so it isn't competing with other amino acids for absorption. For workout recovery: post-workout. Mix into cool water — heat degrades it.

Can I get enough glutamine from food?

Most people consume 3–6 g/day from a normal diet (eggs, beef, fish, dairy, beans, cabbage). Therapeutic doses for gut healing (10+ g/day) are difficult to reach through food alone, especially during illness or stress when needs surge.

Does L-glutamine help with sugar cravings?

It can, anecdotally. The brain can use glutamine for fuel when blood sugar drops, and some people find a 1–3 g dose blunts sugar cravings within minutes. The evidence is mostly clinical observation rather than RCT data, but it's a low-risk experiment.

Is L-glutamine safe during pregnancy?

Limited data. Dietary glutamine intake is fine; supplemental glutamine isn't well-studied in pregnancy. Most clinicians advise against gut-healing doses during pregnancy unless specifically directed by an OB.