What is Glutamic Acid?
Glutamic acid, also known as glutamate, is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the body can produce it on its own. It is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system and plays a crucial role in brain function, learning, and memory. Glutamic acid is also important for the metabolism of sugars and fats, and it serves as a building block for other amino acids.
Benefits of Glutamic Acid
Brain Function: Acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, involved in cognitive functions such as learning and memory.
Metabolism: Plays a role in the metabolism of sugars and fats.
Detoxification: Helps detoxify ammonia by converting it into urea.
Protein Synthesis: Important for the production and maintenance of proteins in the body.
Immune Support: Supports the immune system by serving as a fuel source for immune cells.
Daily Recommended Value (DRV) for Glutamic Acid
The DRV for Glutamic Acid can vary, but for the purpose of this guide, we will use a standard value of 23 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. For an average adult weighing 70 kg, the daily requirement would be:
23 mg x 70 kg = 1,610 mg per day
Foods High in Glutamic Acid
Here are some foods rich in Glutamic Acid along with their approximate Glutamic Acid content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) for a 70 kg individual (1,610 mg per day).
Top Sources of Glutamic Acid for Carnivores
Parmesan Cheese
Glutamic Acid content: 11,200 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 696%
Beef
Glutamic Acid content: 3,090 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 192%
Chicken Breast
Glutamic Acid content: 3,100 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 192%
Pork Loin
Glutamic Acid content: 2,870 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 178%
Egg Whites
Glutamic Acid content: 1,750 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 109%
Top Sources of Glutamic Acid for Vegans
Soy Protein Isolate
Glutamic Acid content: 9,300 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 577%
Sunflower Seeds
Glutamic Acid content: 5,810 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 361%
Soybeans
Glutamic Acid content: 5,200 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 323%
Spirulina
Glutamic Acid content: 4,740 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 294%
Lentils
Glutamic Acid content: 1,260 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 78%