The body’s inflammatory responses, although sought to be prevented in some instances, are essential for several purposes. Without effective inflammation, the body will not be able to respond to invading microorganisms and supress their growth. Also, without inflammation, cuts and wounds in the superficial layers of the skin will not heal, leading to easy access of microbes into the internal structures. Many health enthusiasts also say that inflammation is necessary for the development of muscles following intense training. While many health supplement formulations include compounds which suppress inflammation, a unique component of modern supplements known as Arachidonic acid does exactly the opposite. Arachidonic acid effectively promotes inflammation, but only to the extent beneficial to the human body.
What is Arachidonic acid?
Arachidonic acid is a compound which belongs to the classification of omega-6 fatty acids. It is typically converted to from Linoleic acid in the human body and is transmitted to various body cells for use. Within healthy doses, Arachidonic acid is said to provide a wide range of health benefits, especially among bodybuilders and elderly individuals. Overdose can, however, be risky as it can result to exacerbated inflammatory responses and severe pain. Arachidonic acid is not indicated for individuals with conditions associated with inflammation as it enhances inflammatory responses. It may be taken with anti-inflammatory medications, if prescribed by physicians, to help reduce excessive inflammation, especially when Arachidonic acid is taken within high doses.
Health benefits of using Arachidonic acid
Aside from enhancing inflammation, Arachidonic acid supplementation is associated with various health benefits. These include the following:
- It may enhance lean muscle mass development
Prior to the enlargement and development of muscles, tearing and inflammation is necessary to allow expansion. As an effective aid for inflammation, studies show that Arachidonic acid may potentially enhance lean muscle mass development. Contrary to previous claims that individuals who are undergoing extraneous exercises for muscle mass development are advised to take Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs before workout to prevent inflammation, many experts today recommend the non-use of the drug as inflammation is necessary for muscle mass development.
- It supports the immune system
Inflammation is among the major functions of the immune system. Since the compound is associated with inflammation enhancement, many researchers say that Arachidonic acid is an immunosupportive compound. By supporting the immune system responses, Arachidonic acid also helps prevent development of certain health conditions such as infections. It also reduces a person’s risk from developing diseases.
- It may serve as a vasodilator
One of the recent studies on Arachidonic acid show that it has certain effects in dilating blood vessels. As a potent vasodilator, the compound can be very useful in the prevention and control of hypertension.
Conclusion
Arachidonic acid is a one-of-a-kind health supplement ingredient especially indicated for bodybuilders and elderly individuals. It must, however, be taken with caution for some individuals who are suffering from certain disease.
