L-citrulline

L-citrulline

L-citrulline is an amino acid that your body can make and also gets from some foods like watermelon. It’s closely connected to L-arginine because the body converts L-citrulline into L-arginine, which then helps produce nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow. Because of this conversion, some people use L-citrulline supplements as a way to raise arginine levels more steadily than taking arginine directly. People study it for benefits like better exercise performance, reduced muscle fatigue, and improved blood pressure or circulation. L-citrulline is usually well tolerated, but as with any supplement, it can interact with medications and isn’t appropriate for everyone. Typical side effects are mild and may include stomach upset or changes in blood pressure. It matters because it is a gentle way to support the body’s pathways that control blood vessel tone and circulation, which can affect energy, recovery, and certain aspects of cardiovascular health. If you’re considering supplements, it’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional about safe dosing and interactions.