L-Arginine is an amino acid that, once ingested, breaks down into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide, a neurotransmitter, is known to improve blood circulation throughout the body. Studies have shown that L-Arginine not only improves blood flow throughout the body, but also in arteries of the heart which, in turn, may help with heart problems such as coronary heart disease.

L-Arginine is found in many different types of food and thus is a natural dietary supplement. Although, it has received wide acclamation for its health benefits, most people show no L-Arginine deficiencies and there is much debate on the validity of claims that L-Arginine promotes a healthy heart. Some studies have even shown that an increased intake of L-Arginine does not make any improvements, while some researchers even debate that increased intake of L-Arginine may actually be unhealthy. Side effects of L-Arginine include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gout. It also has been found to make breathing more difficult for those with asthma. Those who are interested in taking an L-Arginine supplement should talk to their doctor before doing so. Despite the debates on whether an increased intake is helpful or harmful, regular intake of L-Arginine does promote many things such as the healing of wounds, healthy kidney function, a healthy immune system, and hormone function.