Evidence supporting the use of: Glutamine (various)
For the health condition: Surgery (healing from)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a vital role in various metabolic processes, including serving as a fuel source for rapidly dividing cells, such as those in the immune system and the intestinal lining. Its use in supporting healing after surgery is primarily justified by scientific research, particularly in the context of critically ill or surgical patients. Multiple studies and clinical trials have investigated glutamine supplementation in post-surgical recovery, especially among patients undergoing major abdominal surgery or those in intensive care units.

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest that glutamine supplementation may reduce infection rates, improve nitrogen balance, and decrease the length of hospital stay in certain groups of surgical patients. The proposed mechanisms include enhanced immune function, preservation of gut mucosal integrity, and a reduction in inflammatory responses. However, the quality and consistency of evidence vary, with some studies showing benefit and others showing little or no effect. Major guidelines, such as those from ESPEN (European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism), acknowledge a potential role for glutamine in specific clinical settings but do not recommend routine use for all surgical patients.

In summary, glutamine is supported by a moderate level of scientific evidence (3/5) for assisting healing after surgery, primarily in specific populations (e.g., critically ill or major surgical patients), while evidence for routine supplementation in all surgical cases remains inconclusive.

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