Agmatine is a recently introduced compound in the supplement marketplace that has earned popularity in a relatively short time. So why is it a good choice and why has it been called a "Super Arginine"?
Agmatine is actually a metabolic by-product of Arginine that comes from a process called decarboxylation. At a simplified level, Agmatine is Arginine with the carboxylic acid end taken out. Agmatine creates the by-products of Guanidino-butyraldehyde and the polyamines putrescine, spermine, and spermidine – these have a role in cell growth. Agmatine is located in various bodily tissues and among other functions, provides structural and metabolic support to our nervous system. Agmatine functions as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator.
So what exactly does Agmatine do?
- Agmatine prevents NOS – or, Nitric Oxide Synthase ( primarily iNOS and nNOS) which means greater, more intense pumps.
- Agmatine promotes insulin release and calcium uptake in pancreatic cells thereby supporting healthy insulin sensitivity.
- Agmatine aids in managing stress by promoting the release of catecholamines.