Photo: Sarah Chai

Who should not take arginine?

L-arginine supplements can worsen allergies and asthma. Use with caution. Don't take L-arginine supplements if you've had cold sores or genital herpes. Too much L-arginine in your system can activate the virus that causes those conditions.

mayoclinic.org - L-arginine: Does it lower blood pressure? - Mayo Clinic

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Can L-arginine supplements lower blood pressure? Answer From Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D.

L-arginine (el-AHR-jih-nene) is an organic substance called an amino acid. The body usually makes all the L-arginine it needs. You also get L-arginine through your diet in foods such as nuts, fish, red meat, soy, whole grains, beans and dairy products. The body changes L-arginine to nitric oxide, a substance known to widen blood vessels. Some people take L-arginine supplements to relax and open arteries, which might help lower blood pressure. However, L-arginine supplements are rarely necessary and may only benefit people who have a true deficiency. Research on L-arginine has had mixed results. The most recent research suggests that L-arginine may lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol and improve overall blood vessel health. A review of several studies found that adults with high blood pressure who took daily L-arginine supplements lowered their bottom (diastolic) blood pressure number by about 2 to 3 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). When it comes to heart health, L-arginine may work better when combined with other vitamins, such as vitamins B6 and B12. However, larger, more-robust studies are needed to confirm these findings before experts can recommend everyday use of these supplements.

L-arginine drug interactions

It's important to know that L-arginine supplements can interact with some medications, including:

Blood thinners, including aspirin and warfarin

Certain diuretics

Nitroglycerin

Some high blood pressure medications

Erectile dysfunction drugs

Diabetes medications

Who shouldn't take L-arginine

Don't take L-arginine if you've had a heart attack. There are concerns that the supplement might increase the risk of death.

L-arginine supplements can worsen allergies and asthma. Use with caution.

Don't take L-arginine supplements if you've had cold sores or genital herpes. Too much L-arginine in your system can activate the virus that causes those conditions.

Talk to your care provider about supplements

A healthy diet and regular exercise are among the best ways to keep your blood pressure healthy. If you're thinking about taking an herbal or dietary supplement, such as L-arginine, talk to your health care provider first. Some supplements can interact with blood pressure medications or make certain health conditions worse.

With Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D.

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mayoclinic.org - Pubic hair removal: Are there benefits? - Mayo Clinic

Are there benefits to removing my pubic hair? Answer From Mary Marnach, M.D. There's no medical or hygienic reason for removing some or all of your pubic hair. But the removal process can be painful and cause many side effects, including:

Genital itching, sometimes severe

Genital burns from waxing

Abrasions or cuts during shaving or waxing

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Increased risk of contracting or transmitting viral infections, such as herpes simplex or HPV, due to cuts or skin irritation that make the skin more susceptible If you're considering removing your pubic hair, ask your doctor for guidance to help minimize the side effects.

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