Glutamine is the most abundant of the 20 amino acids found in proteins. It is converted to glucose when the body requires more energy. This conversion can provide fuel for athletes. Glutamine also aids in maintaining the proper acid/alkaline balance in the body and is important for the synthesis of RNA and DNA. Glutamine is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid. It is the main fuel utilized by both the digestive and immune systems and is the primary conductor of nitrogen to the muscles. A glutamine molecule is 19 percent nitrogen. Glutamine is found in high concentrations in the brain, muscles, intestinal lining, lungs, heart, kidney and liver. Glutamine is a nonessential amino acid because it can be made by the body. Blood levels of L-glutamine will fall significantly after strenuous exercise and will stay low until complete recovery.