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Alanine is a non-essential amino acid and is used by the body to build protein and was first isolated in 1879. The alpha-carbon in alanine is substituted with a levorotatory (l)-methyl group, making it one of the simplest amino acids with respect to molecular structure and is one of the most widely used in protein construction.
Alanine aids in and is required for the metabolism of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that the body uses for energy, and tryptophan and beta-alanine. One form of alanine, beta-alanine, is a constituent of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and coenzyme A, a vital catalyst in the body. It also has demonstrated a cholesterol-reducing effect in rats.
Epstein-Barr virus (sometimes referred to as glandular fever) and chronic fatigue have been associated with excessive alanine levels and low levels of tyrosine and phenylalanine.
Sources
Excellent sources of alanine include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Some protein-rich plant foods like avocado also supply alanine.
Molecular Description
Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that is involved in the metabolism of tryptophan and the vitamin pyridoxine. The alpha-carbon in alanine is substituted with a levorotatory (l)-methyl group, making it one of the simplest amino acids with respect to molecular structure. This amino acid is one of the most widely used in protein construction, averaging about 9 percent of average protein composition on a per-mole basis when compared with the other amino acids. Alanine has little therapeutic role in humans, although it has been demonstrated to display a cholesterol-reducing effect in rats.
Beta-alanine is the only naturally occurring beta amino acid, however this biochemical is not used in the biosynthesis of any major proteins or enzymes. Structurally, the IUPAC name for beta-alanine would be 3- (or beta- ) aminopropionic acid. It is a component of the naturally occurring peptides carnosine and anserine and also of pantothenic acid (vitamin B-3) which itself is a component of coenzyme A. Under normal conditions, beta-alanine is metabolized into acetic acid.
Health Benefits
It has been found that alanine is present in prostate fluid, and it may play a role in the role of the prostate. In one study of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, it was found that 780 mg of alanine per day for two weeks and then 390 mg for the next two and a half months, taken together in combination with equal amounts of glycine and glutamic acid reduced the symptoms.
Alanine Deficiency
None known. However, people on a very low protein diet, could be at risk of a deficiency.
Alanine Dosage
Most people do not need to supplement with alanine since it is well provided for in the diet, and can be synthesized from pyruvic acid (formed in the breakdown of carbohydrates).
Suggested dosage is 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the amino acid powder (Brand Name: Source Naturals) daily between meals, or as recommended by your health care provider. See supplement forms for more information.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: 780 mg L-alanine a day for 2 weeks and then 390 mg for the next 2-1/2 months, taken with equal amounts of glycine and glutamic acid reduced the symptoms. Take on an empty stomach.
Supplement Forms
L-Alanine Powder 3.53oz. (Source Naturals)
Description: L-Alanine is used during fasting or prolonged exercise, L-alanine is one of the primary amino acids released from muscle tissue into the bloodstream. L-Alanine is then converted by the liver into pyruvate, a substrate for the production of blood sugar, or glucose. Some of the glucose, in turn, is used by the muscles for energy, supporting a long and thorough workout.
Ingredients: A level 1/4 tsp contains approximately 720 mg of L-alanine. 1/2 teaspoon is considered a serving size for this product and contains 2.3 g of L-alanine.
Toxicity & Symptom of High Doses
Alanine does not have many side effects, but people with kidney or liver disease should not consume high intakes of amino acids without consulting a health care professional.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also cautioned against taking the supplements due to the unknown affect it could have on both mother and child. Keep supplement out of reach of children.
Drug Interactions
None known.
Cautions
Alanine does not have many side effects, but people with kidney or liver disease should not consume high intakes of amino acids without consulting a health care professional.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also cautioned against taking the supplements due to the unknown affect it could have on both mother and child.
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics - Amino Acids Index
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