ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

Supplementing with glutamine is especially beneficial for which scenario?

1. Gaining muscle mass

2. Recovering from an injury

3. Enhancing endurance

4. Reducing body fat

The correct answer is: Recovering from an injury

Supplementing with glutamine is particularly beneficial for recovering from an injury due to its role in the body's healing processes. Glutamine is an amino acid that serves as a vital substrate for cells in the immune system and is essential for maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier. When an individual experiences an injury, the body often depletes its glutamine stores as it works to heal tissues and fight off infection. In times of physical stress, such as after surgeries, trauma, or injury, the demand for glutamine increases. Supplementing with glutamine may help support immune function and reduce recovery time by providing the body with additional resources to manage these increased demands. It can also minimize muscle loss and support overall recovery from trauma, making it a key nutrient during injury rehabilitation. While muscle mass gain and enhancing endurance are important goals, other amino acids and different nutritional strategies are generally more effective for those scenarios. Reducing body fat similarly involves a broader approach focusing on overall calorie consumption and macronutrient balance rather than on glutamine supplementation alone.