Weight loss occurs through a complex structure.
The creation of new mitochondria within cells is known as 'mitochondrial biogenesis', which signifies assistance in the efficient operation of the energy factory.
Arginine increases the number of mitochondria and is utilized as an energy source in our bodies to produce ATP. It also aids in the breakdown of body fat and enhances the efficiency of the energy factory to prevent the yo-yo effect in weight.
We will examine experimental studies related to arginine.
- Methods
A randomized clinical trial involving middle-aged patients (n=33) hospitalized with Type 2 diabetes and obesity (average BMI 39.1 ±0.5kg/m^2).
During the 21-day trial period, all patients underwent a low-calorie diet (1,000 kcal/day) and regular exercise regimen (45 min/session, twice a day, five days a week).
Additionally, the test group (n=16) consumed 8.3g of arginine per day, while the control group (n=17) took a placebo.
- Results
After three weeks, a comparison between the test group and control group showed that the test group consistently taking L-Arginine had significant improvements (p<0.05) in indicators such as body fat (3.0 vs 2.1 kg), waist circumference (8.3 vs 3.2 cm), fructosamine (54 vs 23 μmol/L), and insulin levels (8.2 vs 3.0 mU/L).
It is noteworthy that the fat-free mass (FFM) was maintained in the test group, while the control group experienced a decrease of 1.6 kg. This indicates that the weight loss in the test group was due to a decrease in fat mass, whereas the weight loss in the control group involved a reduction in both fat and muscle mass.
- Discussion
The discussion highlights that even short-term lifestyle changes can improve glucose and insulin levels and endothelial function. This study is the first to demonstrate that long-term L-arginine supplementation can further enhance glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, endothelial function, oxidative stress, and adipokine release, as well as preserve fat-free mass during a low-calorie diet and exercise training program in patients with obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.
REF: Lucotti, P., Setola, E., Monti, L. D., Galluccio, E., Costa, S., Sandoli, E. P., Fermo, I., Rabaiotti, G., Gatti, R., & Piatti, P. (2006). Beneficial effects of a long-term oral L-arginine treatment added to a hypocaloric diet and exercise training program in obese, insulin-resistant type 2 diabetic patients. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 291(5), E906-E912.
- Abstract
Recent studies suggest that L-arginine supplementation can promote mitochondrial biogenesis and the development of brown adipose tissue through enhanced synthesis of cell signaling molecules (such as nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, polyamines, cGMP, cAMP) and increased gene expression that promotes systemic oxidation of energy substrates (such as glucose and fatty acids).
REF: McKnight, J. R., Satterfield, M. C., Jobgen, W. S., Smith, S. B., Spencer, T. E., Meininger, C. J., McNeal CJ & Wu, G. (2010). Beneficial effects of L-arginine on reducing obesity: potential mechanisms and important implications for human health. Amino acids, 39, 349-357.
The research materials show that arginine has a variety of efficacies, such as breaking down fats, supplying nutrients and oxygen to skin cells, maintaining vascular health, eliminating reactive oxygen species, and facilitating nitrogen excretion. However, the intake of arginine in high amounts is not recommended; instead, a consistent intake of 1,000-3,000 mg is suggested.
