Arginine
Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid naturally found in meat, fish, dairy, and nuts. It serves as the primary substrate for nitric oxide synthase, the enzyme responsible for producing nitric oxide in blood vessels. Arginine is widely used to support cardiovascular health, exercise performance, and circulatory function.
Expert Evidence
1 reference from 1 expert
“People don't realize the citrulline and arginine, the nitric oxide capacity in watermelons is pretty high. There's a pretty cool study where they found it doesn't improve HRV, but it blunts the HRV response when you dose them with something that should normally compromise it.”
Enhance Your Physical & Mental Resilience (HRV, Respiratory Rate, RHR)
2:01:441 reference in 1 episode
Galpin highlights arginine's role in nitric oxide production, noting that watermelon is a surprisingly good natural source of both citrulline and arginine. He cites a study showing these compounds can protect against HRV compromise, though they don't improve baseline HRV. No personal use, dosing recommendations, or cautions are discussed.
Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Low blood pressure in sensitive individuals