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Glutamic acid is a nonessential amino acid that the body uses to build proteins.
Although glutamine and glutamic acid have similar names, they are structurally different. The fluid produced by the prostate gland contains significant amounts of glutamic acid, and this amino acid may play a role in normal function of the prostate. As with the other amino acids, excellent sources of glutamic acid include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Some protein-rich plant foods also supply glutamic acid. Most food sources of protein supply glutamic acid, so only an individual deficient in protein would become deficient in glutamic acid.