How L-Arginine Content Varies in Food Supplements
When it comes to selecting L-arginine food supplements there are plenty of options.
However, not all supplements are equal and frequently the dosage is insufficient. Food supplements include L-arginine in different forms. This adds to the confusion. Usually, this amino acid is listed as either: L-arginine or L-arginine HCL
The difference between L-arginine base and L-arginine HCL
Pure L-arginine is referred to as L-arginine base. As a base substance, it creates a soapy consistency and produces an unpleasant odour. L-arginine HCL is a more stable form of L-arginine, with the addition of a hydrochloric acid salt. As a result, L-arginine HCL is tasteless, more water soluble and not as strong smelling.
L-arginine dosage
Dosage and concentration of this amino acid will vary depending on which form of L-arginine is present in the dietary supplement. For example:
- A supplement with 1,000 mg L-arginine typically refers L-arginine base, also known as pure L-arginine.
- A supplement with 1,000 mg L-arginine HCL refers to L-arginine bonded with hydrochloride. Only 70 to 83 percent of the content is pure L-arginine.
Consequently, the actual amount of L-arginine is very different between these two examples. It’s also important to note that supplements may refer to ‘pure L-arginine’ on the packaging, yet this doesn’t mean that it contains L-arginine base. Only be referring to the list of ingredients is it possible to ascertain which version of this amino acid is present.
Listing the correct chemical composition on food supplements is a legal requirement for all manufacturers. This is where you determine whether the product provides you with with L-arginine base or L-arginine HCL. If this amino acid is present in the form of L-arginine HCL, the dosage and percentage content should be determined by the converted pure L-arginine content.
