What is Arginine?
Arginine, also known as L-arginine, is a semi-essential or conditionally essential amino acid. It becomes essential under certain circumstances such as rapid growth, illness, or injury. Arginine plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including the synthesis of proteins, the production of nitric oxide (which helps in blood vessel relaxation), and the immune system's function.
Benefits of Arginine
Protein Synthesis: Essential for the production and maintenance of proteins in the body.
Nitric Oxide Production: Helps in the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation.
Wound Healing: Promotes wound healing by enhancing collagen production.
Immune Function: Supports the immune system by stimulating the activity of T-cells.
Detoxification: Involved in the detoxification process by converting ammonia into urea.
Daily Recommended Value (DRV) for Arginine
The DRV for Arginine is approximately 15 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. For an average adult weighing 70 kg, the daily requirement would be:
15 mg x 70 kg = 1,050 mg per day
Foods High in Arginine
Here are some foods rich in Arginine along with their approximate Arginine content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) for a 70 kg individual (1,050 mg per day).
Top Sources of Arginine for Carnivores
Turkey Breast
Arginine content: 2,300 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 219%
Chicken Breast
Arginine content: 1,820 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 173%
Lean Beef
Arginine content: 1,710 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 163%
Tuna
Arginine content: 1,690 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 161%
Pork Loin
Arginine content: 1,480 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 141%
Top Sources of Arginine for Vegans
Pumpkin Seeds
Arginine content: 5,353 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 510%
Spirulina
Arginine content: 3,400 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 324%
Soybeans
Arginine content: 3,150 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 300%
Lentils
Arginine content: 2,090 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 199%
Chickpeas
Arginine content: 1,280 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 122%