(also referred to as...)
D-Phenylalanine, L-Phenylalanine, DL- Phenylalanine (DLPA)
2-Amino-3-Phenylpropionic Acid
Description
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid and should be part of your daily diet. It is converted to L-tyrosine and is used to synthesize two excitatory neurotransmitters: norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and dopamine. These neurotransmitters contribute to mental alertness and vitality,
Phenylalanine stimulates endorphin production in the brain, elevating mood and promoting an overall "feel-good" effect similar to that experienced after exercise.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Phenylalanine helps reduce appetite and increases sexual interest. It also aids overall brain function, memory recall, and mental alertness. Phenylalanine may also prevent or help treat arthritis, depression, menstrual cramps, migraine headaches, obesity, Parkinson's disease, premenstrual syndrome, schizophrenia, stress, and many types of chronic pain.
Source
Almonds are high in phenylalanine, at 61 mg per gram of protein. Oatmeal runs a close second, at 58.5 mg/g with soy beans in third at 54 mg/g.
Phenylalanine can also be found in cottage cheese, lima beans, peanuts (not a recommended source), pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, skim milk, other soy products, and other protein-rich foods.
Phenylalanine is also found as part of a multi-amino acid complex and protein powder supplements. Depending on the country in which you live, phenylalanine may also be available as an isolated supplement in capsule or tablet form. You may require a prescription.
Optimal Absorption
For optimal absorption, do not overcook foods.
The most absorbable form of Phenylalanine is DL-Phenylalanine. If supplementing, take 600 to 1,200mg daily.
Discontinue use if no improvement is seen in one week.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Do not take this amino acid if you are pregnant or nursing, suffer from panic attacks, diabetic, have high blood pressure, or Phenylketonuria (PKU) disease.
It is very important to determine whether or not you are allergic to phenylalanine prior to supplementation. This amino acid contains the chemical phenol, which is highly allergenic. In addition, it is wise to avoid artificial sweeteners such as aspartame (found under the brand names "Equal" and "NutraSweet") as phenylalanine is a key ingredient in these substances.
Phenylalanine is non-addictive, but can raise blood pressure in large doses. If you have a heart condition or high blood pressure, consult your naturopath or other health practitioner before supplementing.
It is not recommended to take a single amino acid for an extended period of time without supplementing with other amino acids as well. Long-term isolated amino acid supplementation can create an imbalance in the body.
Ailment / Situation Listing
All information contained on this website is for reference purposes only and all content should be treated as a resource. It is highly recommended that you consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner when undertaking self-treatment. For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
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when applying the information contained on this website.
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