DEAR DR. GOTT: I have had inflamed esophagus most likely due to acid reflux that I have had on occasion. I recently went to my doctor and he put me on Protonix. I mentioned to him that I had read on the internet that L-glutamine is good for helping heal an inflamed esophagus. He said unless this information is coming from a reliable medical source I shouldn’t put too much faith in these internet articles concerning home remedies for health treatment. I am curious if you have had any readers in the past mention anything concerning taking L-glutamine to help heal inflamed esophagus.
DEAR READER: L-glutamine, also known as glutamine, is the most abundant of the amino acids. It important for the removal of ammonia (a common waste) and helps the immune system function normally. It also appears to be required for digestion and normal brain function. The body can typically produce enough but those under extreme stress may benefit from supplementation. People 18 and older can safely take 500-1500mg daily and those with certain medical conditions can safely be prescribed 5000 to 15000 mg daily. It is important to speak to a physician before starting supplementation as those with Reye’s, liver or kidney disease shouldn’t take glutamine and the elderly with decreased kidney function should take reduced dosages. Some individuals may also be sensitive to the product.
Glutamine has been found to aid wound healing, protect the gastrointestinal lining (mucosa) and help in the recovery of illness. It can reduce the rate of death in trauma and critically ill patients. It also reduces infections, particularly those associated with surgery.
Endurance athletes such as marathon runners are prone to getting colds after an event. Glutamine supplements help reduce that likelihood. Individuals with HIV/AIDS who experience weight loss (primarily muscle loss) who were given glutamine were found to be better able to absorb nutrients and regain weight.
Based on glutamine’s ability to protect the mucosa, it was thought that a glutamine deficiency may be to blame for inflammatory bowel disorders such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Unfortunately, two studies involving Crohn’s sufferers found that supplementation did not improve symptoms; however, more research/studies are required. This may be the basis of the belief that glutamine can heal an inflamed esophagus.
In this instance and given that two studies have already found that glutamine didn’t help intestinal inflammation associated with Crohn’s, I have to agree with your physician. However, if you really want to give it a try and your physician approves, I don’t see any harm. I would be interested to know if you experience improvement.
Readers who are interested in learning more can order my Health Report “Hiatal Hernia, Acid Reflux and Indigestion” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order to Dr. Peter Gott, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title when writing or print an order form from my website, www.AskDrGottMD.com.
