Consider L-glutamine for post-infectious gut issues

What to Do

Supplement with L-glutamine (5-10g daily, divided into 2-3 doses) if recovering from gut infections, prolonged antibiotic use, or if you have diagnosed increased intestinal permeability.

Why It Works

Glutamine is the primary fuel source for enterocytes (intestinal lining cells). During illness or stress, demand exceeds what diet provides. Supplementation supports tight junction protein expression, which maintains the barrier between gut contents and the bloodstream. Clinical trials show benefit in critically ill patients and post-infectious IBS.

Tips

• Powder form mixed in water is most cost-effective
• Start with 5g daily and increase gradually
• Most benefit seen in people with existing gut damage, not as general prevention
• Generally safe, but consult a doctor if you have liver or kidney disease