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Glutamine: is it a conditionally required nutrient for the human gastrointestinal system?
1Division of Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
Journal of the American College of Nutrition
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Glutamine may preserve gut health during parenteral nutrition, but human data are limited. More research is needed to confirm its benefits in preventing bacterial translocation and maintaining intestinal function in patients.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Glutamine is a key fuel for the small intestine.
- Animal studies suggest glutamine supplementation may prevent bacterial translocation.
- Potential mechanisms include preserving gut morphology and immune function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review human and animal data on glutamine's role in preserving intestinal morphology and function.
- To assess glutamine's efficacy in preventing bacterial translocation.
- To clarify the clinical significance of intestinal changes during parenteral nutrition.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing human and animal studies on glutamine supplementation.
- Analysis of data on parenteral and enteral nutrition.
- Evaluation of effects on intestinal morphology, permeability, and immune function.
Main Results:
- Animal data suggest glutamine preserves intestinal structure and function, potentially preventing bacterial translocation.
- Human data are less conclusive, with unclear intestinal deficits during parenteral nutrition.
- The clinical significance of observed changes in humans remains largely undefined.
Conclusions:
- Glutamine's role in preserving intestinal integrity and preventing bacterial translocation in humans requires further investigation.
- More robust human clinical trials are needed to establish definitive benefits.
- Understanding the clinical impact of intestinal changes during parenteral nutrition is crucial.
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