Glutamic Acid
Glutamic acid is an amino acid found in the body and in food proteins. Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is its sodium salt.
Does more dietary glutamate mean more brain glutamate?
The blood–brain barrier tightly controls movement between blood and brain. A mechanistic review describes little appreciable entry of circulating glutamate into most brain regions. Its role in brain chemistry therefore cannot by itself support a claim that oral glutamic acid improves memory or focus. This review was not a trial of cognitive benefits. 1
The cited mechanistic review does not test a concentration benefit from supplementation. 1
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Gut Health1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Immune Support1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Cognition3 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Stress & Mood1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Longevity1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Adverse findings
Ratings where the reported effect was unfavourable.