Gastro Support By Kirkman Overview & Drug Interactions

L-glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in the body, produced primarily in skeletal muscle and then released into circulation. It serves vital roles in various tissues, including the immune system, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and liver, where it supports essential functions such as maintaining intestinal integrity, immune response, and amino acid balance. Although traditionally classified as a non-essential amino acid, during periods of severe stress, glutamine becomes conditionally essential due to the body's increased demand. It acts as a critical nitrogen and carbon transporter between organs, and while the intestinal mucosa can synthesize glutamine, this production is insufficient during times of significant physiological stress. Dietary supplements generally contain L-glutamine as it is the biologically active form of the amino acid.

Glucosamine is a natural compound found in the body, particularly in the fluid that surrounds joints. It is often used as a dietary supplement to help with joint health, particularly for conditions such as osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is believed to work by helping to reduce inflammation, promoting the repair of damaged cartilage, and slowing down the loss of cartilage. There are several different forms of glucosamine supplements, including glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and N-acetyl-glucosamine. Glucosamine sulfate is the most commonly used form in supplements. It is important to note that glucosamine sulfate is derived from shellfish (specifically the exoskeletons of shrimp, lobster, and crabs) and can be problematic for people with shellfish allergies.

Quercetin is a type of flavonoid, which is a class of compounds found in a wide variety of plants and foods. It is purported to have a number of health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting effects. Studies suggest it may also help to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease. In addition, quercetin may have anti-allergic properties and may be helpful in the treatment of allergies and asthma. It is a popular dietary supplement worldwide and is often included in products that contain antioxidants or various vitamins/minerals. Its wide range of potential health benefits mean that it could potentiate the effects of other drugs (e.g., anti-hypertensives), which is why there are an abundant number of potential interactions listed for quercetin.

Slippery elm is a type of tree that is native to North America and member of the elm family. It is known for its rough, reddish-brown bark and its slippery inner bark. In traditional medicine, slippery elm has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including sore throats, stomach ulcers, and skin irritations. It is believed to work by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory tracts, which can help to soothe irritation and reduce inflammation.

Ginger is a spice native to Asia and part of the Zingiberaceae family. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is often used to add flavor to dishes and drinks. Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat nausea, motion sickness, and other digestive issues. Ginger is also sometimes used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ginger supplements generally standardize several compounds found in the root, and are often labeled as containing a certain amount of 'ginger root extract'.

Turmeric is a commonly used spice and a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). It is native to India and other parts of South Asia and is known for its bright orange-yellow color and its warm, slightly bitter flavor. In traditional medicine, turmeric is believed to have a number of health benefits due to its high content of antioxidants and other compounds, such as curcumin. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and it is often used to treat a variety of conditions, including joint pain, digestive problems, skin disorders, and respiratory infections. Most dietary supplements that utilize turmeric standardize their products based on a specific amount of curcumin (curcuminoids) per dose. Additionally, turmeric supplements are often paired with black pepper extract (piperine) to improve oral absorption.