Photo Caption Many foods containing protein provide arginine. Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid; although your body generally makes enough of it to sustain normal functions, supplementation may be beneficial. When sold as a supplement, arginine is commonly labeled as "L-arginine" which is a form of the amino acid that can be easily used by your body. Arginine supplements are used by bodybuilders and athletes and prescribed to treat cardiovascular diseases. Despite the benefits, arginine should be used with caution as it has been linked to serious side effects. Tingling in the lower body is sometimes reported by users of arginine, but this is not frequently the case. Always consult your doctor before taking arginine supplements and discuss any side effects you experience, including tingling.
Arginine is converted in the body into the vasodilator nitric oxide, which widens blood vessels. This widening causes an increase in the oxygen and nutrients that reach muscles and organs, helping them operate more efficiently. Several conditions are associated with narrow blood vessels, including heart failure, atherosclerosis, vascular headaches and erectile dysfunction. The increased blood flow encouraged by arginine supplements could benefit people suffering from these conditions and athletes whose muscles have higher nutrient requirements. Arginine also causes the body to release hormones such as human growth hormone and insulin.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine classifies arginine supplementation as "possibly safe" for healthy people when taken for a short period of time. Because arginine not only affects blood flow but also influences hormone production, it can cause several unwanted side effects. Abdominal pain, gout, blood abnormalities, low blood pressure and airway inflammation are all possible side effects of arginine.
Anecdotal user reviews have reported tingling in the genitals and legs when taking arginine supplements. This is not a documented side effect of the amino acid but can be related to the increased blood flow caused by arginine. The increased production of human growth hormone, which influences sex hormones, may also be responsible for this sensation. If you experience tingling while taking arginine, see your doctor.
Arginine can worsen asthma and cause a possibly dangerous allergic reaction. Although more research is necessary, there is evidence to suggest that arginine may worsen herpes because the virus uses arginine to reproduce. Do not take arginine if you are currently taking any medication that affects blood pressure or blood flow, including cardiac medications and erectile dysfunction medications. Consult your doctor.
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