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Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is also one of the aromatic amino acids that exhibit ultraviolet radiation absorption properties and is the most commonly found aromatic amino acid.
Once in the body, phenylalanine can be converted into another amino acid, tyrosine, which in turn is used to synthesize two key neurotransmitters that promote alertness: dopamine and norepinephrine. Because of its relationship to the action of the central nervous system, this amino acid can elevate mood, decrease pain, aid in memory and learning, and suppress the appetite. It can be used to treat arthritis, depression, menstrual cramps, migraines, obesity, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia.
Phenylalanine is available in three different forms, designated L-, D-, DL-. The L- form is the most common type, and is the form in which phenylalanine is incorporated into the body's proteins. The D- type acts as a painkiller. The DL- form is a combination of the D- and the L-. Like the D- form, it is effective for controlling pain, especially the pain of arthritis; like the L- form, it functions as a building block for proteins, increases mental alertness, suppresses the appetite, and helps people with Parkinson's disease. It has been used to alleviate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and various types of chronic pain, such as pain in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis with mixed results.
Sources
It is contained in most protein rich foods but good sources are found in dairy products, almonds, avocados, lima beans, peanuts and seeds.
Molecular Description
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is also one of the aromatic amino acids that exhibit ultraviolet radiation absorption properties with a large extinction coefficient. This characteristic is often used as an analytical tool to quantify the amount of protein in a sample. Phenylalanine plays a key role in the biosynthesis of other amino acids and some neurotransmitters. It is the most commonly found aromatic amino acid in proteins and enzymes with a molar ratio of 3.5 percent compared to the other amino acids, about double the amount of any other aromatic amino acid.
Phenylalanine Deficiency
Dietary deficiency is rare but symptoms may include lethargy, edema, weakness, skin lesions as well as liver damage and slow growth. A deficiency in diet would only occur with an extremely low protein intake.
This nutrient could prove of benefit to people suffering from Parkinson's disease, tiredness, depression, busy with alcohol withdrawal, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and vitiligo.
Dosage
The daily dosage is unknown but supplements are taken at about 14 mg per kilogram of body weight per day - which would translate to about 980 mg for a 70 kg male, but since it has powerful mood altering effects, only use under medical supervision.
supplemental phenylalanine should NOT be taken by pregnant women or by people who suffer from anxiety attacks, diabetes, high blood pressure, phenylketonuria (PKU), or pre-existing pigmented melanoma, a type of skin cancer. DLPA supplements may interact with certain antidepressants or stimulants. Please consult with your health care provider before taking this supplement.
Toxicity & Symptoms of High Intake
Toxicity is rare in dietary intake but large amounts in supplement form may play havoc with your blood pressure and cause headaches, nausea and heartburn. Large amounts of this nutrient may also cause nerve damage.
Some people cannot metabolize phenylalanine and should not take supplementation of this amino acid.
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics - Amino Acids Index
PHENYLALANINE SUPPLEMENT PRODUCTS
L-Phenylalanine, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 60 Caps
L-Phenylalanine is an Essential Amino Acid that helps to elevate positive mood and may be used in the treatment of some forms of depression. It is essential for the production of adrenalin.
Phenylalanine Supplements & Products
HerbalRemedies: Phenylalanine Information
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