Homoarginine is a compound that supports cardiovascular health by enhancing nitric oxide production, which helps widen blood vessels and improve blood flow. Found in small amounts in legumes and fish, homoarginine plays a key role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining heart function. Proper levels of homoarginine are important for healthy circulation and overall heart and blood vessel health.
Testing for homoarginine levels could be beneficial for individuals at risk of cardiovascular diseases, as homoarginine is linked to heart health and blood vessel function. People with hypertension, heart failure, or those at risk of stroke might find such testing informative. It’s also relevant for athletes or those with high physical activity levels, considering homoarginine’s role in nitric oxide production and muscle function. Additionally, individuals with metabolic conditions that affect amino acid processing could benefit from monitoring their homoarginine levels.
Homoarginine is not abundant in dietary sources like other amino acids. However, it is synthesized in the body from lysine, which is found in protein-rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and legumes. Consuming these lysine-rich foods can indirectly support homoarginine levels.
Homoarginine supplementation may benefit cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. It could enhance athletic performance by aiding in muscle function and increasing nitric oxide production. However, the research on homoarginine supplementation is limited compared to other amino acids.