What are the health benefits of L-phenylalanine. How does this essential amino acid impact mood, pain management, and weight loss. What are the potential side effects and risks of L-phenylalanine supplementation. Which foods are rich in phenylalanine.

Understanding L-Phenylalanine: An Essential Amino Acid

L-phenylalanine is a vital amino acid that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. As an essential amino acid, our bodies cannot produce it naturally, making it necessary to obtain through diet or supplements. This compound is fundamental for normal growth, development, and the synthesis of important hormones and neurotransmitters that regulate mood and body weight.

The chemical structure of phenylalanine (C9H11NO2) is aromatic and considered neutral. Its non-polar and hydrophobic nature, due to its benzyl side chain, contributes to its unique properties and functions within the body.

The Role of Phenylalanine in the Body

Phenylalanine serves as a building block for proteins and is converted into several other important compounds in the body. These include:

• Tyrosine (another amino acid)
• Dopamine (a neurotransmitter involved in learning, memory, and emotion)
• Norepinephrine (a stress hormone and neurotransmitter)
• Epinephrine (also known as adrenaline)

A deficiency in phenylalanine can lead to various symptoms, including confusion, depression, memory loss, and low energy levels. This underscores the importance of maintaining adequate levels of this amino acid through proper nutrition or supplementation.

The Health Benefits of L-Phenylalanine

Research has uncovered several potential health benefits associated with L-phenylalanine. From mood enhancement to pain relief and weight management, this amino acid shows promise in various areas of health and wellness.

Mood Enhancement and Depression Management

One of the most notable benefits of L-phenylalanine is its potential to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. How does phenylalanine impact mood? Studies suggest that this amino acid may have mood-boosting properties, possibly due to its role in dopamine production.

A study published in the Journal of Neural Transmission found that administering 75–200 milligrams of DL-phenylalanine daily to 20 participants improved various symptoms of depression, including overall mood and agitation. Another study demonstrated that combining L-phenylalanine with L-deprenyl, a medication used to prevent dopamine breakdown, had a beneficial effect on depression symptoms in 90 percent of outpatient participants.

Chronic Pain Relief

Emerging research suggests that phenylalanine may act as a natural pain reliever, potentially helping to manage chronic pain conditions. How does phenylalanine contribute to pain relief? Studies indicate that it may have analgesic properties in both human and animal trials, showing promise in reducing pain associated with various conditions.

An animal study revealed that injecting horses with a combination of amino acids, including D-phenylalanine and D-leucine, helped reduce chronic pain by preserving the activity of specific endorphins in the brain. This suggests that phenylalanine may play a role in modulating pain perception and management.

Potential Weight Loss Support

While more research is needed, some studies suggest that L-phenylalanine may have a positive impact on weight management. How might phenylalanine influence weight loss? The answer may lie in its effect on appetite-regulating hormones.

A study conducted by the Department of Gastroenterology at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in London found that administering L-phenylalanine to participants before meals reduced food intake and increased levels of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that stimulates digestion and helps control appetite. An in vitro study published in the American Journal of Physiology corroborated these findings, noting that phenylalanine increased CCK secretion, which could potentially aid in weight loss efforts.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of L-Phenylalanine

While L-phenylalanine is generally safe for most people, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects, especially for certain individuals with specific health conditions.

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder, are unable to process phenylalanine effectively. For these individuals, consuming excess amounts of phenylalanine can lead to serious side effects, including seizures, developmental delays, and other neurological issues. People with PKU must strictly limit their phenylalanine intake and follow a special diet under medical supervision.

Interactions with Medications

Phenylalanine may interact with certain medications, particularly those used to treat Parkinson’s disease, such as levodopa. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking phenylalanine supplements, especially if you’re on medication or have pre-existing health conditions.

Possible Side Effects

While side effects are generally rare, some individuals may experience:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Anxiety

If you experience any adverse effects while taking phenylalanine supplements, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.

Dietary Sources of L-Phenylalanine

For most people, obtaining adequate amounts of phenylalanine through diet is sufficient. Which foods are rich in phenylalanine? This essential amino acid is found in various protein-rich foods.

Animal-Based Sources

• Eggs
• Milk and dairy products
• Meat (beef, pork, chicken)
• Fish

Plant-Based Sources

• Soybeans and soy products
• Nuts (especially almonds and peanuts)
• Seeds (pumpkin, sesame, sunflower)
• Whole grains
• Beans and lentils

Incorporating a variety of these foods into your diet can help ensure adequate phenylalanine intake for optimal health and bodily functions.

L-Phenylalanine Supplements: Usage and Considerations

For those considering L-phenylalanine supplements, it’s important to understand proper usage and potential considerations.

Dosage Guidelines

There is no standard dosage for L-phenylalanine supplements, as individual needs may vary. Typical dosages range from 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs and health status.

Timing of Supplementation

Some studies suggest taking L-phenylalanine supplements on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. However, if you experience gastrointestinal discomfort, taking it with food may help alleviate these issues.

Quality and Purity

When choosing L-phenylalanine supplements, opt for products from reputable manufacturers that undergo third-party testing for quality and purity. Look for supplements that are free from unnecessary additives and fillers.

L-Phenylalanine vs. DL-Phenylalanine: Understanding the Difference

When exploring phenylalanine supplements, you may encounter both L-phenylalanine and DL-phenylalanine. What’s the difference between these forms?

L-Phenylalanine

This is the natural form of phenylalanine found in foods and used by the body to produce proteins and other important compounds. It’s considered the most biologically active form.

D-Phenylalanine

This is a synthetic form of phenylalanine that is not used to produce proteins but may have pain-relieving properties.

DL-Phenylalanine

This is a mixture of both L-phenylalanine and D-phenylalanine. Some studies suggest that this combination may offer both the benefits of protein synthesis and pain relief.

The choice between these forms depends on your specific health goals and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

The Role of Phenylalanine in Neurotransmitter Production

One of the most crucial functions of phenylalanine in the body is its role in the production of important neurotransmitters. How does phenylalanine contribute to neurotransmitter synthesis?

Dopamine Production

Phenylalanine is a precursor to tyrosine, which is then converted into dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward. Adequate levels of phenylalanine are essential for maintaining optimal dopamine levels in the brain.

Norepinephrine and Epinephrine Synthesis

From dopamine, the body can further synthesize norepinephrine and epinephrine (also known as adrenaline). These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in the body’s stress response and overall arousal.

Impact on Mood and Cognitive Function

By supporting the production of these key neurotransmitters, phenylalanine may indirectly influence mood, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being. This relationship underlies many of the potential benefits associated with phenylalanine supplementation, particularly in the areas of mood enhancement and mental health.

Understanding this biochemical pathway highlights the importance of maintaining adequate phenylalanine levels for optimal neurological function and mental health.

Phenylalanine and Athletic Performance

Given its role in protein synthesis and neurotransmitter production, phenylalanine has garnered interest in the athletic and fitness communities. How might phenylalanine impact athletic performance?

Muscle Recovery and Growth

As an essential amino acid, phenylalanine is crucial for protein synthesis, which is fundamental to muscle recovery and growth. Adequate phenylalanine intake, along with other essential amino acids, may support muscle repair and development following intense exercise.

Energy and Endurance

Through its role in the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, phenylalanine may indirectly influence energy levels and endurance. These neurotransmitters play a role in motivation and the body’s response to physical stress.

Mental Focus

Some athletes and fitness enthusiasts report improved mental focus and clarity when supplementing with phenylalanine. This could be attributed to its role in neurotransmitter production, which influences cognitive function.

While more research is needed to fully understand the impact of phenylalanine supplementation on athletic performance, ensuring adequate intake through diet or supplementation may support overall physical and mental performance during exercise.

As with any supplement, athletes should consult with a healthcare provider or sports nutritionist before incorporating phenylalanine supplements into their regimen, especially considering potential interactions with other supplements or medications.

Phenylalanine Benefits, Side Effects, Foods and More

Have you heard of the amino acid phenylalanine? This crucial compound is absolutely vital for several aspects of health and plays a central role in maintaining normal growth and development.

It’s also important for the synthesis of certain hormones and neurotransmitters that are involved in regulating mood and body weight.

So what is the purpose of phenylalanine? Is phenylalanine the same thing as aspartame, and does phenylalanine increase dopamine?

Keep reading for everything you need to know about this essential amino acid.

What Is Phenylalanine? (Role in Body)

According to Merriam-Webster, the official phenylalanine definition is “an essential amino acid C₉H₁₁NO₂ that is converted in the normal body to tyrosine.” Much like other amino acids like L-alanine, arginine and leucine, phenylalanine is considered an important building block that is used to form the proteins that your body needs to function and thrive.

Because it’s considered “essential,” your body is unable to produce it on its own and needs to obtain it from food or supplemental sources instead.

“Phe” is the official phenylalanine abbreviation. Chemically speaking, the phenylalanine structure is aromatic, and it’s considered neutral.

Is phenylalanine polar? Because of its benzyl side chain, the Phe amino acid is considered non-polar and hydrophobic.

This amino acid is used to make many other important compounds, including tyrosine, dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. Emerging research also shows that this key amino acid could play a role in the treatment of several conditions, including depression, Parkinson’s disease and chronic pain.

There are some who may have issues with phenylalanine metabolism, however, and may not be able to process or break it down efficiently. For these individuals, consuming excess amounts can cause serious side effects, ranging from seizures to developmental delays and beyond.

Benefits

1. Used to Produce Other Compounds

Like other amino acids, phenylalanine plays a vital role in the production of other key compounds that are important to health. For example, it’s used to produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in learning, memory and emotion.

The body also converts phenylalanine to tyrosine, an amino acid that aids in the synthesis of proteins. It’s also involved in the production of norepinephrine and epinephrine, both of which are neurotransmitters released by the body in response to stressful situations.

A deficiency in this important amino acid can cause a long list of symptoms, including confusion, depression, memory loss and low energy levels.

2. May Reduce Symptoms of Depression

One of the top L-phenylalanine benefits is its ability to improve mood and protect against depression. Although more research is needed, some studies have found that it could have powerful mood-boosting properties.

In fact, a study published in the Journal of Neural Transmission found that administering 75–200 milligrams of DL-phenylalanine per day to 20 people improved several symptoms of depression, including overall mood and agitation. Another study found that combining L-phenylalanine with L-deprenyl, a medication used to prevent the breakdown of dopamine, had a beneficial effect on symptoms of depression in 90 percent of outpatient participants.

3. Relieves Chronic Pain

Some research has found that phenylalanine could act as a natural pain reliever to help reduce and manage chronic pain. One study even reported that it has been shown to have analgesic properties in both human and animal trials, noting that it may help reduce pain caused by a variety of conditions.

Another animal study showed that injecting horses with a combination of amino acids, including D-phenylalanine and D-leucine, helped reduce chronic pain by preserving the activity of specific endorphins in the brain.

4. May Promote Weight Loss

Does L-phenylalanine help with weight loss? While more studies on the link between L-phenylalanine and weight loss are definitely needed, some emerging evidence shows that phenylalanine could have a big impact when it comes to your waistline.

A study conducted by the Department of Gastroenterology at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in London actually found that administering L-phenylalanine to 10 participants before meals reduced food intake and increased levels of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that stimulates digestion and helps keep appetite under control. Another in vitro study in the American Journal of Physiology had similar findings, noting that phenylalanine was able to increase secretion of CCK, which could potentially aid in weight loss.

Risks and Side Effects

Is phenylalanine bad for your health? For most people, it’s safe and associated with very few adverse side effects.

Although it’s found naturally in many foods, it’s also sometimes added to products as well. Like other amino acids, phenylalanine is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration when used as a food additive.

In supplement form, it has been shown to be well-tolerated in doses up to 45 milligrams per pound of body weight. Some of the most common side effects associated with high doses include nausea, heartburn, fatigue, headaches, constipation and anxiety.

Phenylalanine supplements are not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as research is limited on the safety for these specific populations. Those with schizophrenia should also avoid taking phenylalanine as it may cause tardive dyskinesia, a disorder characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements.

Furthermore, those with phenylketonuria (PKU) need to be mindful of phenylalanine intake. PKU is a birth defect and form of phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency that impairs the body’s ability to process phenylalanine efficiently, resulting in a buildup in the blood.

Why is phenylalanine buildup bad, and what happens when phenylalanine accumulates in the body? Left untreated, PKU can cause growth failure, seizures, developmental delays and mental disability.

Phenylketonurics are generally advised to follow a low-protein, low-phenylalanine diet, which helps limit their intake of foods with phenylalanine to prevent side effects.

Is phenylalanine bad for diabetics? And is this amino acid safe and effective for the general population?

For most adults, there are very few phenylalanine dangers or side effects to consider. In fact, this amino acid is an important part of the diet and essential for the production of several hormones and neurotransmitters.

However, it is important to get your this amino acid from natural sources rather than artificial sweeteners like aspartame.

What are the negative effects of aspartame? There’s a lot of controversy about potential aspartame dangers, with research suggesting that non-nutritive sweeteners may impact cancer growth and gut health.

Other possible aspartame effects include alterations in brain function and metabolic health.

Those with PKU also need to be mindful of their intake. This disorder impairs the body’s ability to process phenylalanine efficiently, which can cause excess levels to build up in the blood.

Potential phenylalanine effects for those with PKU may include mental disabilities, developmental delays and seizures.

Taking phenylalanine or dopamine supplements is not recommended for those taking other psychiatric medications or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s also not recommended for those taking Baclofen, as it may decrease its absorption.

As an antispasmodic medication, Baclofen uses include treating muscle spasms, stiffness and pain.

Foods and Supplements

Phenylalanine is found naturally in a wide array of food sources, including both plant-based and animal-based protein sources. Meat, fish and poultry are a few of the most common foods high in phenylalanine, along with eggs, nuts, seeds and soy products.

Rather than focusing on filling your plate with phenylalanine foods, however, it’s best to simply focus on incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense protein foods into your diet.

As a food additive, you can also find phenylalanine in gum, soda and other diet products. This is because phenylalanine is found in aspartame, which is often used as a calorie-free sugar substitute in many low-calorie products.

What is aspartame? Is aspartame bad for you?

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made up of aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Although it has been approved for use by the FDA, serious questions have been raised regarding its safety.

In particular, aspartame and other artificial sweeteners have been studied for their potential effects on metabolic health and the gut microbiome, as well as their role in other issues like cancer and mental disorders. Fortunately, it’s easy to find gum without aspartame, and there are plenty of other natural sugar substitutes you can enjoy instead as part of a healthy diet.

Phenylalanine supplements are also available for those looking for methods for how to increase dopamine with supplements. These supplements are usually found in powder or capsule form and have several potential uses. They are primarily used to boost mood and mental clarity.

How to Use It (and Proper Dosage)

Ideally, you should be able to meet the majority of your amino acid needs through food sources alone. If you do opt to take a phenylalanine supplement, be sure to use only as directed, and consult with your doctor if you’re taking other medications or have any underlying health conditions.

These supplements are not recommended for those using antidepressants or other psychiatric medications, as they may cause adverse side effects or interactions.

It’s best to take supplements on an empty stomach, about an hour or so before eating to maximize absorption. Most supplement manufacturers advise taking around 1,000–1,500 milligrams daily,  which is typically divided into three or four smaller doses.

Recipes

Looking for an easy way to get your fix of natural dopamine by upping your intake of phenylalanine? Try incorporating a few of these high-protein, dopamine foods into your daily diet:

• Vegetarian Pozole Verde with Fava Beans
• Salmon Patties with Almond Flour Crackers
• Huevos Rancheros
• Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
• Buddha Bowl with Flank Steak and Cashew Sauce

Final Thoughts

• The phenylalanine amino acid is an essential amino acid that is important for growth and development as well as the production of several neurotransmitters and hormones.
• Some studies suggest this amino acid could promote weight loss, reduce chronic pain and protect against depression.
• In addition to being found in protein foods, it’s also a component of aspartame. For this reason, you can find it in soda, chewing gum and many diet products.
• However, because of the potential aspartame dangers, it’s best to meet your needs primarily through whole food sources instead.
• This amino acid is found naturally in many food sources and can be safely consumed by most people without any adverse effects. However, those with PKU need to limit their intake and follow a special low-protein diet to keep blood levels normal.

Benefits, Side Effects, and Food Sources

Phenylalanine is an amino acid found in many foods.

It exists in two forms — L-phenylalanine and D-phenylalanine. They’re nearly identical but have slightly different molecular structures (1, 2).

Because your body is unable to produce enough L-phenylalanine on its own, it’s considered an essential amino acid, meaning you need to get it from your diet. Good sources include high protein foods like eggs, dairy, meat, and soy products (3, 4).

Your body uses L-phenylalanine to make proteins and other important molecules. It has also been studied as a treatment for several medical conditions, including skin disorders and depression (2).

However, it can be dangerous for people with the genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU), which impairs the body’s ability to metabolize phenylalanine (5).

This article explains all you need to know about phenylalanine, including its benefits, side effects, and food sources.

Your body needs phenylalanine and other amino acids to make proteins, which are found in your brain, blood, muscles, internal organs, and virtually everywhere else in your body.

Phenylalanine is also crucial for the production of other molecules, including (2):

• Tyrosine. This amino acid is produced directly from phenylalanine. Your body uses it to make new proteins or converts it into other molecules like epinephrine (6).
• Epinephrine and norepinephrine. When you experience stressful situations, these molecules are vital to your body’s fight or flight response (7).
• Dopamine. This neurotransmitter is an important part of your brain’s reward center and involved in motor control, memory, and learning (8).

The dysfunction of these molecules can cause negative health effects, such as depression (9, 10).

In fact, since your body uses phenylalanine to make these molecules, it has been studied for its link to major depressive disorders (11, 12).

Summary

Your body can convert phenylalanine into the amino acid tyrosine, which is then used to produce other important molecules. These molecules are involved in several aspects of health, including your mood, brain function, and stress responses.

Several studies have examined how phenylalanine might benefit the treatment of certain medical conditions.

Some research indicates that taking phenylalanine supplements alongside ultraviolet (UV) light treatment may improve skin pigmentation in individuals with vitiligo, a skin condition that causes loss of skin pigment (13, 14, 15).

Phenylalanine can also be used to produce dopamine, a molecule that plays a key role in mental health and depression (2, 10).

In a small, older study from 1977 including 12 people with depression, two-thirds of the participants experienced improved symptoms after taking a mixture of the D- and L-forms of the amino acid (16).

Newer studies have similarly found that low levels of phenylalanine could be linked to major depressive disorder (11, 12).

On the other hand, other older research shows no clear benefits. Ultimately, because there’s limited recent research available on the effects of phenylalanine on depression, more high quality studies are needed (17, 18, 19).

In addition to vitiligo and depression, phenylalanine has been studied for potential effects on:

• Pain. Some older studies have found that D-phenylalanine might relieve pain, but overall, research has turned up mixed results (1, 20, 21, 22).
• Alcohol withdrawal. According to a 2011 study, using a supplement that contained D-phenylalanine along with other amino acids could help alleviate symptoms of alcohol withdrawal (23).
• Parkinson’s disease. An older study suggests that phenylalanine may support Parkinson’s disease treatment, but more research is needed. Although inconclusive, tyrosine has also been studied for its effects on brain function and Parkinson’s (24, 25, 26).
• ADHD. Currently, research does not indicate that this amino acid has any benefits for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (27).

Summary

Phenylalanine may improve the skin disorder vitiligo when combined with UV treatment. At this time, studies do not support the use of this amino acid to treat other conditions.

Phenylalanine is found in many protein-containing foods and considered to be generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (28).

The amount found naturally in foods likely doesn’t pose a risk for healthy individuals. What’s more, few or no side effects are generally observed at supplement doses up to 12 grams per day (2, 15, 29).

Nevertheless, it’s best to use phenylalanine only as directed and check with your doctor before adding any supplements to your routine.

People taking medications for schizophrenia should avoid using phenylalanine, as it could worsen symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements (30, 31).

Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid taking phenylalanine supplements, as there’s limited research on their safety and potential long-term effects.

Furthermore, those with phenylketonuria (PKU) should monitor their intake of the amino acid carefully. This disorder impairs the body’s ability to metabolize phenylalanine, which can lead to high levels in the blood (32).

Dangerously high blood concentrations of phenylalanine can cause severe brain damage, delayed growth, intellectual disability, and problems with the transport of other amino acids to the brain (5, 33, 34).

PKU is also associated with several other disorders, including epilepsy, overactive reflexes, and neurological issues like tics or tremors. Due to the seriousness of this disorder, newborns are generally screened for it soon after birth (35).

Individuals with PKU are placed on a special low protein diet to limit their intake of phenylalanine, which is generally maintained for life (5).

Summary

For healthy adults, phenylalanine is considered safe in the quantities found naturally in foods. However, individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot metabolize it and must minimize their intake to prevent adverse health effects.

Many high protein plant and animal foods contain phenylalanine, including meat, fish, poultry, and legumes.

It’s also found in aspartame, an artificial sweetener that’s often added to diet soda and many sugar-free foods (36).

Here are some of the top food sources of phenylalanine (4):

• Meat: beef, pork, lamb, venison
• Poultry: chicken, turkey, duck, goose
• Seafood: salmon, trout, tuna, mackerel, shrimp, lobster
• Eggs: whole eggs, egg whites
• Dairy: milk, cheese, yogurt
• Nuts: almonds, pistachios, macadamia nuts, cashews, walnuts
• Seeds: pumpkin seeds, squash seeds, hemp seeds, sunflower seeds
• Nut butters: peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter
• Legumes: lentils, chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans
• Whole grains: quinoa, oats, rye, barley, wheat
• Soy products: soybeans, tofu, tempeh, edamame, protein supplements
• Diet products: diet soda and sugar-free ice cream, gum, candies, and flavored yogurts made with aspartame

Generally, you don’t need to select foods based on their phenylalanine content. Instead, eating a variety of protein-rich foods throughout the day will provide you with all the phenylalanine you need, along with other essential amino acids and nutrients.

Summary

Many foods, including soy products, eggs, seafood, and meats, contain phenylalanine. Eating a variety of protein-rich foods throughout the day will provide you with the amino acids your body needs, including phenylalanine.

Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid found in both plant and animal foods.

It may benefit the skin disorder vitiligo, but research on its effects on depression, pain, and other conditions is limited.

While it’s generally considered safe for healthy individuals, it’s important that those with phenylketonuria (PKU) keep their intake low to avoid potentially dangerous side effects.

If you notice any negative side effects after taking a phenylalanine supplement or eating high protein foods, talk with your doctor.

They can test your amino acid blood levels and help determine the best course of treatment for you.

Just one thing

Try this today: There are plenty of simple and delicious ways to ramp up your intake of protein and ensure that you’re getting enough phenylalanine. Check out this article for 20 tasty high protein foods that are easy to add to your diet.

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Phenylalanine – one of the essential amino acids?

Contents:

➦ Is taking phenylalanine harmful or beneficial?

➦ Phenylalanine in our diet

➦ Is self-administration of amino acids dangerous? Wikipedia states that phenylalanine is an aromatic alpha-amino acid similar in composition to alanine. It is part of the proteins of all living organisms and has invaluable benefits for stabilizing the production of hormones. Another useful property of the amino acid is pain relief. It is recommended to use it for migraines, discomfort in the cervical and vertebral regions.

Taking phenylalanine harm or benefit?

Phenylalanine is sourced from all protein-containing foods, from meat and poultry to legumes, mushrooms and nuts. For a person, the average rate of its consumption per day is 1-2 grams. The average person metabolizes phenylalanine in the usual way. It is perfectly absorbed by the body, helps our organs function and create proteins. Some people suffer from an overabundance of this amino acid, such a disease usually manifests itself in childhood, and is called phenylketonuria.

Protein components are found in our brain, blood cells, muscle tissue and internal organs. That is why the normalization of protein production processes is so important for the functioning of the human body. Phenylalanine is involved in the production of important hormones and molecules such as:

• Tyrosine: A neurotransmitter that can help improve memory and performance during high stress.
• Epinephrine and norepinephrine: affect different parts of our body and stimulate the central nervous system. When one of them is too much or too little in the body, it can have a noticeable effect on overall health. They are also responsible for the speed of decision making: fight or flight.
• Dopamine: affects motor function, mood and even important decisions. It is closely related to the ability to learn, is responsible for the perception of information, and its deficiency often leads to the appearance of some mental disorders.

Changes in the normal course of reactions to process these amino acids can cause some disruption in the body. The structural formula of phenylalanine is divided into two types: L-phenylalanine and D-phenylalanine. One recent cohort study pointed to the possible benefit of combining the D- and L-forms of this amino acid for the treatment of depression. Improvements in the clinical condition were observed in 2/3 of the patients. Unfortunately, this is just one of the few studies that have shown a lasting positive effect. Other experiments have not collected sufficient evidence to support the decision to use this amino acid in the fight against depression.

Phenylalanine can be found mainly in protein-containing foods. Being a naturally occurring amino acid, it is considered safe to use as a dietary supplement. Several studies have explored the possibility of using this amino acid to treat skin and neuronal diseases. Thus, the ability of phenylalanine to prevent skin color loss and excessive tissue pigmentation was discovered. Its use for the treatment of vitiligo has shown fairly good results. It has been proven that in combination with ultraviolet radiation, it enhances the effect of the treatment and helps to improve the processes of skin pigmentation in people with vitiligo.

Normally, the amount of active phenylalanine in foods is low enough to exceed critical levels when consumed and cause harm to health. The normal intake of this amino acid per kg of human body weight is approximately 50–100 mg. Despite the almost complete absence of side effects from the use of products containing phenylalanine, the use of the amino acid in capsules is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. Contraindications to the use of dietary supplements can also be caused by the individual characteristics of the body.

Products with phenylalanine

Phenylalanine in our diets

There are two forms or structural constructs of the amino acid: phenylalanine L and phenylalanine D. They are very similar, the difference is only in molecular structure. In food, the L-form is mainly found, which is involved in the production of protein by the body. The D-form is more common in nutritional supplements. Usually it is it that is synthesized artificially, as it has shown good results when used for medical purposes. The body cannot produce enough L-phenylalanine on its own and must obtain it from the diet. This is one of the reasons why this amino acid is called essential.

In addition to its primary role as a protein maker, phenylalanine is essential for making other molecules in our body, such as hormones. Several neurotransmitters created by the participation of phenylalanine are responsible for the transmission of signals between different parts of our body. So this amino acid can be called one of the important elements for the smooth functioning of the nervous system and good impulse conduction. Unfortunately, for people with the genetic disorder PKU, this amino acid can be dangerous. This disorder is characterized by its complete immunity by the body.

Phenylalanine is such a common substance in food that even small amounts of it are found in almost all food. Most of all it is in animal products, as well as where there is a large amount of protein. The best plant source of phenylalanine is soy. In addition, the champions in terms of the amount of substance are seeds and nuts. Adding soy protein to your diet can provide about 2.5 grams of phenylalanine per 200 calorie serving.

Many medicines, diet foods, and sodas contain the artificial sweetener aspartame. It contains large doses of phenylalanine, but is not banned from use. Federal regulations require that any drink or food containing aspartame be labeled with the warning: “Phenylketonuria: Contains phenylalanine. ” This warning helps people with PKU avoid foods that are a source of phenylalanine.

In general, if you eat a balanced diet and eat a variety of foods, then you do not need to specifically choose foods high in this amino acid. Since a sufficient amount of it will enter your body in one way or another.

Is self-administration of amino acids dangerous? This is an excess of the amino acid phenylalanine, which leads to a sharp deterioration in intellectual abilities and inhibition of mental development processes. People with impaired amino acid metabolism cannot absorb and process phenylalanine in their bodies, so it tends to accumulate in their cells. Because of this, the concentration of phenylalanine in their blood can be about 400 times higher than in ordinary people. These dangerously high concentrations of this substance can cause significant brain damage and, as a result, mental retardation. The disorder is extremely dangerous for children, so they are usually screened for PKU shortly after birth.

People diagnosed with PKU are placed on a special low-protein diet that they have to follow for the rest of their lives.

Despite this terrible disease, phenylalanine is being actively studied by scientists to determine its further scope. Some studies have experimentally derived the following results of the effect of phenylalanine on:

✅ Pain syndrome. The drug D-form of phenylalanine may help relieve us of persistent throbbing pain of varying severity. It has helped with some types of headache and back pain, although the results of these studies are mixed.

✅ Alcohol intoxication. Some experiments have been able to indicate that this amino acid is able to relieve the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

✅ Parkinson’s disease. Due to its ability to improve the conduction of nerve impulses and participation in the formation of neurotransmitters in the brain, phenylalanine can participate in programs for the prevention of Parkinson’s disease. More research is needed to prove the effectiveness of this treatment method.

✅ ADHD. There is some progress in the study of the effect of phenylalanine on groups suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Scientists continue to study this area and cannot yet provide reliable results on the effectiveness of this method.

The chemical properties of phenylalanine are mainly focused on the formation of protein structure in our body. Recent studies have revealed the relationship between eating a large amount of protein food and human body weight. Phenylalanine may be used in the future for weight loss due to its ability to produce the “satiety hormone”. Its use quickly reduces the feeling of hunger and reduces appetite. The benefits of this method of treating obesity are still doubtful, but there are all prerequisites for using this amino acid in the future.

Since phenylalanine cannot be synthesized in our body, we are forced to take it as a dietary supplement or get enough foods rich in this amino acid every day. Eating a variety of protein foods throughout the day will provide you with all the amino acids your body needs. Harm from taking dietary supplements is possible only in case of their individual intolerance or in the case when the body is, therefore, oversaturated with them.

Research links:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https ://medlineplus.gov/ency/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://medlineplus.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https: //www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https:// www.accessdata.fda.gov/

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L-Phenylalanine – GymBeam | GymBeam.ua

L-Phenylalanine is a highly absorbable form of this essential amino acid . It is one of the main building blocks of the protein and a precursor to the amino acid tyrosine. It then transforms into the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a role in mood regulation or response to stress. Thus, phenylalanine is involved in the most basic processes in the body.

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L-Phenylalanine is an easy-to-use form of this essential amino acid . It is one of the main building blocks of the protein and also forms a number of other important substances. In the body, for example, it is converted to amino acid tyrosine. It then releases neurotransmitters such as dopamine or norepinephrine, which play a role in mood regulation, stress response, and cognitive functions, including thinking and concentration. Thus, phenylalanine is involved in the most basic processes in the body.

Phenylalanine is one of the essential amino acids. This means that our body cannot produce enough of it on its own and it must be supplemented from the diet. However, nutritional supplements are also a great way to supplement with phenylalanine. Therefore, this product is especially suitable for people who want to provide optimal intake of this essential amino acid. It comes in the form of practical capsules, which are also suitable for vegans.

L-Phenylalanine and its benefits

Composition

L-phenylalanine, bulking agent (microcrystalline cellulose), anti-caking agent (magnesium stearate), hypromellose capsule.

Recommended dosage

Take 1 capsule 1-3 times daily.

Nutrition table

**Adult Average Dosage (8400 kJ/2000 kcal)

Warning

Do not exceed recommended daily dosage. The product is not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet. The product is not intended for children, pregnant and lactating women. Keep out of the reach of small children. Store in a dry place, protected from direct sunlight, at room temperature.

Product Information

Manufacturing	EU
Product Labels (MKT)	Vegan
Height	11.50 cm
Width	6.50 cm
Length	6.50 cm
Gross Weight	0.09 kg
Net weight	0.06 kg
Capsules	90 caps
HS code	21069098: — Ostatné
EAN	8586024620933
Without plastic packaging	No
No artificial sweeteners	Yes
Non-GMO	Yes
Bio	No
Gluten free	Yes
Lactose free	Yes
Vegetarian	Yes
Vegan	Yes
Blend	Pure
Form	Capsules
Legal product category	Food supplement
Distributor	GymBeam, s. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment * Name * Email * Website