L-ornithine

Table of Contents

Other names

L-Ornithine HCl
Ornithine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (OKG)
Free-Form L-Ornithine

Synopsis

L-Ornithine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in the urea cycle, which is responsible for detoxifying ammonia and converting it into urea for excretion through the urine. It is derived from arginine and is involved in protein synthesis and the production of other important compounds, such as polyamines (which are involved in cell growth, regeneration, and wound healing). L-ornithine also helps in the synthesis of proline, an amino acid important for collagen formation and skin health.

In the context of athletic performance, L-ornithine is often used to reduce fatigue, improve endurance, and enhance recovery after intense physical exertion. It works by helping the body remove excess nitrogen and reduce the buildup of ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism that can contribute to muscle fatigue. L-ornithine supplementation has been shown to support muscle function and recovery, particularly in combination with other amino acids like L-arginine.

L-ornithine is naturally found in meat, fish, and dairy products, and is often available as a dietary supplement in the form of capsules, tablets, or powders.

Historical Use
L-ornithine, like many other amino acids, was first identified in the early 20th century during the study of amino acid metabolism and the urea cycle. Its role in detoxifying ammonia and supporting liver function was well recognized in biochemistry and clinical nutrition, but its widespread use as a supplement in the context of sports performance and muscle recovery gained traction more recently.

In traditional diets, L-ornithine’s presence in protein-rich foods like meat and dairy naturally supported metabolic function, muscle growth, and wound healing, although it was not typically used as a therapeutic agent until more modern research highlighted its role in fatigue reduction and exercise recovery.

Modern Use
L-ornithine is primarily used in sports nutrition and performance-enhancing supplements due to its ability to reduce fatigue, improve muscle recovery, and enhance endurance during physical activity. It is commonly found in pre-workout and post-workout formulas for the following purposes:

  • Muscle recovery: L-ornithine helps reduce muscle fatigue by supporting the body’s ability to detoxify ammonia and enhance recovery after intense physical exertion. It also plays a role in protein synthesis, which is crucial for muscle repair.
  • Improving endurance: L-ornithine helps maintain optimal nitrogen balance, which can improve exercise endurance and reduce the onset of fatigue during prolonged physical activity.
  • Detoxification: As part of the urea cycle, L-ornithine helps remove excess nitrogen from the body and support liver function, aiding in the detoxification process.
  • Supporting liver health: L-ornithine supports the urea cycle and plays a role in ammonia detoxification, which is important for overall liver health and function.

L-ornithine is commonly combined with other amino acids like L-arginine or L-citrulline in pre-workout and muscle recovery supplements to enhance their effectiveness. It may also be found in detoxification formulas designed to support liver health and ammonia metabolism.

Safety Considerations
L-ornithine is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate dosages, typically between 1 to 6 grams per day for exercise recovery and fatigue reduction. However, high doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea or diarrhea. It is important to follow dosage recommendations to avoid side effects. Individuals with kidney or liver conditions should consult a healthcare provider before taking L-ornithine, as excessive nitrogen buildup may stress these organs.

As always, before beginning supplementation, particularly if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications, it's recommended to speak with a healthcare professional.

Uses: Health Conditions

None

Body Systems

Muscles (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Liver (Science)
Mitochondria (Science)