L-Tyrosine is one of the non-essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein that the body naturally produce. This naturally occurring amino acid is key in the production of neurotransmitters, the brain chemicals that regulate feelings, emotions, and mood. L-tyrosine is made from phenylalanine, an essential amino acid. The levels of l-tyrosine levels in the body greatly depend on the phenylalanine acquired from the diet or from phenlylalanine supplements. L-tyrosine is also naturally present in protein rich foods like dairy products, fish, meats, oats, and wheat.
L-tyrosine is critical in the production of adequate levels of important neurotransmitters including dopamine, epinephrine, L-dopa, and norephinephrine. L-tyroside deficiency leads to low levels of these neurotransmitters which can result to anxiety, depression, frustration, irritability, and sadness. Additionally, dopamine insufficiency may lead to excessive fat accumulation or obesity as it helps in appetite suppression and reducing body fat. Adequate l-tyrosine promotes total health with these important l-tyrosine benefits:
- Taking L-tyrosine supplements is very helpful in stress management. People who are under stressful situations have depleted l-tyrosine and phenylalanine. As a result, there is a depletion of the neurotransmitters that help the body cope with stress more effectively. L-tyrosine deficiency may also accelerate all the negative effects of stress.
- L-tyrosine is a way of replenishing depleted levels of neurotransmitters as a result of excessive intake of alcohol, caffeine, and sugar.
- Another important benefit of l-tyrosine is elevating the mood and promoting a calm feeling. This is helpful in people with depression, anxiety, and agitation.
- L-tyrosine also improves important brain functions like memory, learning, concentration, and retention. Studies suggest that L-tyrosine capsules are beneficial to people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
- For women, an L-tyrosine supplement may be necessary to relieve depression and mood swings that go along with Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS).
- In the skin, L-tyrosine is converted to melanin that renders protection against the harmful UV light from the sun.
- Other L-tyrosine uses include increasing energy and boosting libido for men and women.
Not all people may need L-tyrosine supplements, but it is recommended for those with health conditions linked to l-tyrosine deficiency and those who are constantly under stress. Recommended l-tyrosine dosage ranges from 500 mg to 1500 mg per day. This daily dose will yield the desired l-tyrosine benefits.
Since L-tyrosine is naturally occurring in the body, it is an extremely safe supplement. Until today, there were no reports of L-tyrosine side effects.
