Enhancing gut function and providing symptom relief in IBD with glutamine supplementation: A literature review

Glutamine, typically considered a nonessential amino acid, can become conditionally essential under catabolism and stress. While the functions of glutamine are many, it is traditionally known for decreasing permeability of the gut, preventing bacterial translocation, promoting gut integrity, and optimising nitrogen balance. Emerging evidence suggests a link between gut function in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and supplementation of glutamine. A literature review was performed using the databases PubMed, Medline, and CINAHL. The research suggests there is an inverse association between glutamine supplementation and IBD, though not all studies have proven statistical significance. Exact recommendations have not yet been determined, but studies have demonstrated benefits when IBD patients are supplemented with 20-30 g of glutamine daily. Additional research is needed to pinpoint specific guidelines for those seeking therapeutic effects from IBD symptoms with glutamine supplementation.