Amino Acid
N-Acetyl L-Glutamine
Also known as: N-Acetyl Glutamine, NAG, NAGL, Acetyl-L-Glutamine
N-Acetyl L-Glutamine is an acetylated form of the amino acid glutamine that may support intestinal barrier function and immune health. Evidence for human supplementation is limited and primarily preliminary.
Primary uses
- Intestinal barrier support
- Gut health
- Immune function
- Post-exercise recovery
How it works
- Provides acetylated glutamine for intestinal epithelial cell metabolism
- May support tight junction integrity in the gut barrier
- Potential glutamine precursor for immune cell function
Dosage
- Typical range
- 2-5 grams daily
- Timing
- Can be taken any time; some suggest post-workout or between meals
- With food
- Can be taken with or without food
- Duration
- Optimal duration for supplementation is not well established
- Special populations
- Safety in pregnant/nursing women and children not well studied
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Mild gastrointestinal upset reported occasionally
- Nausea possible at higher doses
Contraindications
- Not recommended for those with glutamine sensitivity
- Caution in severe liver or kidney disease
Evidence notes
Most human evidence is anecdotal or derived from animal studies. Very few robust RCTs in humans specifically examining N-Acetyl L-Glutamine supplementation. Glutamine itself has better evidence, but the acetylated form lacks sufficient clinical validation.
Grade D: Primarily pre-clinical or anecdotal; human efficacy not established.
Related in Amino Acid
Check a full stack
Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.
Open the checkerMedical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.