L-arginine is an essential amino acid. L-ornithine may be used as an alternativesince it metabolizes to L-arginine in the body. L-arginine is requiredfor the body to synthesize nitric oxide, which enables the arterial systemto retain its youthful elasticity. Nitric oxide also helps to produce endothelialrelaxation factor, which is needed by the arterial system to expand andcontract with each heartbeat.21-33* L-arginine and L-ornithine have been shown to promote natural growthhormone (GH) release from the pituitary gland. GH promotes healthy anabolicmetabolism throughout the body, helping to maintain protein synthesis withincells.34-41* Surgical or traumatic injury greatly increases the bodys needfor L-arginine, a key building block to repair damaged tissue and bone.Because of its role in repair of tissues, L-arginine helps to promote optimalhealing of wounds. L-ornithine may also be used for this purpose.42-53*
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