L-Tyrosine
L-Tyrosine is good for both mental and physical health.
What is L-Tyrosine?
L-Tyrosine, also known as tyrosine, is one of the 20 standard amino acids that cells use to build proteins. It's non-essential, as your body makes it from another amino acid called phenylalanine, which you get from protein-rich foods like meat, dairy, eggs, and legumes.
It serves as a building block, precursor, for several important neurotransmitters, including dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), and norepinephrine. Some thyroid hormones are also derived from tyrosine.
These chemicals are vital for brain function and mood regulation. Tyrosine plays a significant role in the function of the thyroid gland, impacting metabolic rate and overall health.
L-Tyrosine Benefits
- Supplementing with L-Tyrosine can enhance mental clarity.
- L-Tyrosine can support mood and promote hormonal balance.
- Its role in neurotransmitter synthesis makes it invaluable for managing stress and maintaining cognitive function during demanding situations.
- Studies conducted with the US military show that tyrosine intake can help maintain performance and mood during prolonged stressful activities like combat or sleep deprivation.
- Tyrosine has been observed to lower blood pressure, providing a cardiovascular health benefit.
- Combining tyrosine with tryptophan, the precursor to serotonin, may enhance energy levels and have a more pronounced effect on mood elevation.
Recommended Dosage
- Effective doses noted in research are high, approximately 100 mg/kg of body weight, translating to up to 7,000 mg for an average adult.
- The safety of long-term use of L-Tyrosine at doses over 1,000 mg per day has not yet been fully established.
- Suggested daily dosages of L-Tyrosine range from 1,500 mg to 7,000 mg per day, depending on individual needs and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
