Glutamine

[Shprung]

I complain today at work that my legs sore from the 25 miles I rode to wrok; a dude that 'live' in the gym asked me if I takes Glutamine after work out. I don't. Actually, I take nothing before during and after short rides. Long rides like Centuries I love to eat before and during but nothing special after.
I looked it up in wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glutamine)and I see that it apply to endurance sports, so I come to you with a question, do you use it? Should I use it?

[urbanknight]

Pain is weakness leaving the body... or so I've been told. I suppose it depends on recovery. I notice that my muscles take much longer to recover after a workout than when I was a teen. Maybe it would be a good idea to take something like that.

[merider1]

Well, I've never used glutamine, but I would encourage you to refuel within 30 minutes after your ride for sure. That is, after all, a workout. 200 to 300 calories, mix of protein and carbs should do it.

[VanceMac]

Someone light up the Danno beacon, please. He will provide you with all the answers you seek!

In the meantime, I will say that glutamine is one of the ingredients I looked for when choosing a recovery drink. It wasn't a top priority, more of a nice-to-have.

[JanB]

Glutamine is supposed to be good for muscle recovery and every trainer I have ever worked out with has suggested it. I take it and I think it helps. A friend of mine who is on chemotherapy started taking it to strengthen her immune system. Her Doc strongly suggested it.

[voltman]

I tried glutamine supplementation for a while after weight training. I didn't notice anything better than using my standard PWO drink.

[cjbruin]

I tried it for a while...I think a few slices of bacon work just as well. :)

[DaveSANYYZ]

I have been drinking Endurx4 for close to a year now; it has glutamine (~$29 for the larger bucket). I got it since I used to suck pretty bad fitness-wise (bonk after 15mins) and thought it may help; so I can't really compare any before and after effects. At least it doesn't seem to have any bad short-term effect even though I'm lactose intolerant. I haven't felt post-ride soreness in a while, but it is most likely due to other factors.

[WhiteCarbonDude]

Recoverite from Hammer Nutrition has Glutamine in it and I love Hammer products. Reminds me I need to make another order. I think Glutamine recovery and "recovery" rides are for elite athletes who are very competitive. If you are a social rider out doing doubles on a regular basis, it probably doesn't make very much difference. I never do "recovery" rides nor do I take any "recovery" pills/drinks and I do pretty well in the standings of any event.

[awiner]

Glutamine is arguably the key "recovery amino" as it (A) helps boost the immune system (B) helps to reduce the symptoms of overtraining syndrome (C) plays a role in enhancing glycogen synthesis (D) stimulates muscle protein synthesis for the rebuilding of lean muscle tissue.

I use Hammer Recoverite as well. It does contain 3000mg of L-Glutamine per serving.