Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body. It is an important energy source for intestinal cells (enterocytes) and is key for repair and replacement of enterocytes.

Glutamine levels decrease during periods of metabolic stress, such as during viral infections.
It is often found to be at lower than normal levels in people with chronic viral conditions and gastrointestinal disorders.
Glutamine is also a precursor of several other amino acids such as glutathione, Glutamine also helps to build new tissue proteins by slowing down tissue breakdown (catabolism).
Loss of lean body tissue is a well-accepted predictor of morbidity and mortality from degenerative diseases. This function makes glutamine an important supplement for anyone at risk of muscle wasting, and makes it a favorite among athletes and body builders wishing to increase muscle mass.
One of the principal uses of glutamine in HCV is to improve overall gastrointestinal health. Glutamine is required as fuel for gastrointestinal cells to reproduce and replace themselves.
It is generally accepted that autoimmune conditions cause the intestinal lining to become somewhat inflamed and “leaky.” This leakiness, referred to as increased intestinal permeability, allows for undigested food particles, bacteria, virus and fungus organisms to make their way into the blood stream.
Glutamine supplementation can help reduce intestinal permeability and relieve a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune symptoms associated with HCV.

Supplementation

An average dose is between 500-3,000 mg, three times per day between meals.
Glutamine is better absorbed when supplemented with vitamin C and vitamin B6.
A dose of only 2 grams/day increases growth hormone levels: this effect may be important for those with HCV with subnormal growth hormone levels.
Oral supplementation with glutamine between 2-4 grams per day helps to restore proper gastrointestinal function, heal gastrointestinal mucosa, reduce intestinal permeability and improve absorption of foods. Supplementation may also help to reduce the immunologic load upon the intestines.

http://www.hopeforhepatitisc.com/HealthyLiving/HepC/Part-8.pdf

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