Sustained-release L-arginine supports cardiovascular function, wound healing, and immune function* – and is a biological precursor to nitric oxide*

L-arginine is a semi-essential amino acid involved in multiple areas of human physiology and metabolism. L-arginine significantly affects endocrine function and helps regulate the release of neurotransmitter chemicals, insulin, glucagon (which has the opposite effect of insulin; i.e., it raises blood sugar), and growth hormone.* However, one of L-arginines most compelling contributions to human physiology is its role as a biological precursor of nitric oxide.* The vascular endothelium (lining of the arteries) creates nitric oxide from L-arginine, resulting primarily in blood vessel relaxation.* This property is critical to maintaining good vascular health, heart health, reproductive health, and protection against oxidative damage.*

Maintaining the natural, healthy functions of the vascular endothelium is dependent upon an adequate supply of L-arginine being available to these cells.* As mentioned above, the conversion of L-arginine to nitric oxide is responsible for these functions by making the endothelial cells more resistant to oxidative damage and adhesion by otherwise harmful substances.* Numerous studies have demonstrated that individuals with sufficient nitric oxide production by endothelial cells have the best opportunity to maintain already normal cardiovascular health.*

In a large, double-blind trial that observed male reproductive health issues, 1.6 g L-arginine daily for six weeks resulted in improvement in reproductive health in those men with low nitric oxide metabolism.*

Like most amino acids, L-arginine functions as a building block of proteins; however, its presence also appears to support wound healing.* Numerous studies show L-arginine supplementation benefits wound healing time and strength of the tissue in and around the wound during the healing phase.*

Without adequate L-arginine (and subsequently, nitric oxide) available to vascular endothelial cells, arteries may not optimally dilate, which can result in less than optimal blood flow to the organs and extremities.*

L-arginine is absorbed and metabolized by the body very quickly, which usually necessitates taking it frequently throughout the day. Sustained-release Perfusia-SR, however, maintains an optimal level of L-arginine over 24 hours with suggested twice-daily use.*

Studies on Perfusia-SR show increased blood flow to the heart muscle and the extremities, maintenance of already normal blood pressure, and improved vascular elasticity.* A recent study demonstrated improvements in blood flow after Perfusia-SR supplementation in individuals with less than optimum heart health.* In another study, Perfusia-SR was given to 29 healthy volunteers for one week and significant support of their already normal cardiovascular health was observed.*