Should You Try L-Glutamine for IBS?
Bass and Simpson agree there’s reasonable evidence that taking L-glutamine may help ease symptoms of IBS-D or post-infectious IBS. But Bass says there isn’t enough research to show similar benefits for IBS-C — when more than a quarter of stools are hard or lumpy — or for IBS-M, which involves a mix of loose and hard stools.
As far as side effects go, “L-glutamine is usually well tolerated, but start with low doses so you can ease into it to avoid any potential bloating,” Simpson says. Bass suggests starting with 5 g of L-glutamine up to three times a day for six to eight weeks.
However, Bass says those with advanced liver disease or cirrhosis should steer clear of the supplement unless they get approval from their hepatologist. Taking large amounts of L-glutamine can increase ammonia levels in the body, because L-glutamine breaks down into ammonia, Bass says.
In people with advanced liver disease or cirrhosis, that extra ammonia can build up and become dangerous, potentially leading to confusion and mood changes caused by a condition called hepatic encephalopathy.
The bottom line is this: If you find that taking an L-glutamine supplement works for you, then stick to it. If you find that other IBS strategies help keep symptoms at bay, then you probably don’t need to introduce another approach.
“I don’t really recommend for or against [L-glutamine supplements]. But I advise that if they feel like there is an improvement in symptoms, then continue. Otherwise, [don’t] keep spending your money if you do not feel it is making any difference,” says Andrew Moore, MD, a Chicago-based gastroenterologist with Endeavor Health Medical Group.
If you choose to take a supplement, be sure to look for ones that are third-party tested, because the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) does not test supplements for safety or effectiveness. Bass recommends only buying those tested by one of the following companies: United States Pharmacopeia (USP), NSF, or ConsumerLab.com.
Always talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement, as L-glutamine can interfere with certain medications and shouldn’t be used by people with liver problems.
“Look for a pure L-glutamine powder without added sweeteners, flavorings, or fillers,” Simpson says.
The Takeaway
- L-glutamine is an amino acid naturally found in your body that, when supplemented, may help ease gastrointestinal symptoms in those with IBS-D and post-infectious IBS.
- Specifically, research shows that L-glutamine supplementation may reduce intestinal permeability and potentially enhance the effects of the low-FODMAP diet.
- There isn’t enough evidence to suggest that L-glutamine supplementation can help with other types of IBS, such as IBS-C and IBS-M.
- Even though taking L-glutamine isn’t linked to many side effects, it’s always a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider or care team before starting a new supplement.
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