Glutamine, though a non essential amino acid (i.e. it can be synthesized in the body), including glutamine rich foods in children’s diet would help keep their intestines in good condition. It is also required for production of a key antioxidant enzyme (glutathione),  and maintaining acid base balance and muscle mass. Deficiency of the amino acid can cause weak immune system and heightened intestinal permeability. Glutamine is extremely effective in helping the body cope up with stressful conditions like high intensity exercise, severe burns, colds, irritable bowel syndrome, and muscle wasting. Specific dietary intake recommendations of the amino acids have not been defined.

Food Sources of Glutamine

Glutamine is found in beef, chicken, fish, beans, dairy products, wheat, cabbage, beets, beans, spinach, parsley, nuts and tofu.

Top 10 Glutamine Rich Foods

1. Meat and Poultry: Beef, chicken, pork, and their products are excellent sources of glutamine.

2. Seafood: Like most proteins all types of fish are good sources of glutamine.

3. Organ meat: Organ meat, especially liver from any animal is a good source of glutamine.

4. Milk and Milk Products: Milk, yoghurt, cheese, especially ricotta cheese are one of the richest source of this amino acid.

5. Eggs: Eggs from any source and in any form contain high amounts of glutamine.

6. Protein bars: Specially concocted protein bars provide all the amino acids in appropriate quantities including glutamine.

7. Energy Drinks: Certain energy drinks contain glutamine, and are regularly consumed by athletes and people indulging in heavy exercise.

8. Beans and Legumes: All types of beans and legumes are excellent sources of glutamine for vegans.

9. Vegetables: Vegetables like cabbage, beets, spinach, kale, parsley, wheatgrass and wheat are good sources of glutamine. The glutamine in cooked vegetables is denatured, thus raw vegetables are better sources.

10. Nuts: Different nuts contain different levels of glutamine, and consumption of nuts in limited quantities can prove to be a vital source of the amino acid.

Note: Children, especially ones under 2 yrs are prone to food intolerance and allergy. Introduce any new food slowly and cautiously. If you are aware of you child's food allergies avoid the any food that contains that particular allergen completely.

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