Ornithine

Ornithine helps to prompt the release of growth hormone, which promotes the metabolism of excess body fat. This effect is enhanced if ornithine is combined with arginine and carnitine. Ornithine is necessary for proper immune system and liver function. This amino acid also detoxifies ammonia and aids in liver regeneration. High concentrations of ornithine are found in the skin and connective tissue, making it useful for promoting healing and repairing damaged tissues.

Ornithine is synthesized in the body from arginine, and in turn serves as the precursor of citrulline, proline, and glutamic acid. Supplemental L-ornithine should not be taken by children, pregnant women, nursing mothers, or anyone with a history of schizophrenia, unless they are specifically directed to do so by a physician.

Animal research has suggested that ornithine, along with arginine, may promote muscle-building activity in the body by increasing levels of anabolic (growth-promoting) hormones such as insulin and growth hormone. However, most human research does not support these claims at reasonable intake levels. One study that did demonstrate increased growth hormone with oral ornithine used very high amounts (an average of 13 grams/day) and reported many gastrointestinal side effects. One controlled study reported greater increases in lean body mass and strength after 5 weeks of intensive strength training in athletes taking 1 gram per day each of arginine and ornithine compared to a group doing the exercise but taking placebo. These findings require independent confirmation.

Where is it found ?

As with amino acids in general, ornithine is predominantly found in meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Western diets typically provide 5 grams per day. The body also produces ornithine.

Who is likely to be deficient ?

Since ornithine is produced by the body, a deficiency of this nonessential amino acid is unlikely, though depletion can occur during growth or pregnancy, and after severe trauma or malnutrition.

How much to take

Most people would not benefit from ornithine supplementation. In human research involving ornithine, several grams are typically used per day, sometimes combined with arginine.

Side effects

No side effects have been reported with the use of ornithine, except for gastrointestinal distress with intakes over 10 grams per day.
The presence of arginine is needed to produce ornithine in the body, so higher levels of this amino acid should increase ornithine production.

Caution

Since ornithine and arginine are best taken together and are so closely related, the following approach is prudent: Supplementation is not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers, unless medically warranted and suggested by your doctor. Do not give to infants or growing children, since arginine may cause giantism. If dwarfism is the infant's or child's problem, discuss the options with your health care provider before using any amino acid supplements. Do not give to those with schizophrenic problems. Individuals with herpes should not use supplements or eat foods rich in arginine. Excessively large dosages of 20 or more grams can cause bone and joint deformities. If you take too much arginine, over a period of several weeks, your skin can become coarse or thicken. Reduce your arginine intake to allow the problem to rectify itself.

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