What is phenylalanine? Although this name reminds us of the name of a nutritional supplement, it is actually an amino acid produced in our body. There are also nutritional supplements. In addition, eating certain foods also allows this amino acid to be produced.
phenylalanine, It is an amino acid found in many foods and used by our body to produce proteins and other important molecules. Its effects on depression, pain and skin disorders have been investigated. It is important for the synthesis of certain hormones and neurotransmitters involved in regulating mood and body weight.
What is phenylalanine?
What is Phenylalanine?
It belongs to an amino, which is the building block of proteins in our body. This molecule exists in two forms: L-phenylalanine and D-phenylalanine. They are almost the same but have a slightly different molecular structure. The L-form is found in foods and is used to produce proteins in our body, while the D-form is synthesized for use in some medical applications.
Our body cannot produce enough L-phenylalanine on its own. Therefore, it is an essential amino that must be obtained from food. It is found in a wide variety of foods, both plant and animal sources.
In addition to its role in protein production, phenylalanine is also used to make other important molecules in our body. Some of these send signals between different parts of our body.
Phenylalanine has been studied as a treatment for a variety of medical conditions, including skin diseases, depression, and pain. However, the genetic defectphenylketonuria (PKU) dangerous for people with
Of our bodyprotein It needs amino acids to make it. Many important proteins are found in the brain, blood, muscles, internal organs and almost everywhere in our body. Phenylalanine is crucial for the production of other molecules such as:
Tyrosine: From phenylalaninetyrosine is produced. It is used to make new proteins or convert them into other molecules.
Epinephrine and norepinephrine: When we encounter stress, these molecules are vital to the body's "fight or flight" response.
Dopamine: This molecule shapes memories and learning skills, along with feelings of pleasure in memory.
Phenylalanine Benefits
Scientific studies have focused on the benefits of phenylalanine supplements. According to the results obtained from the studies, the benefits of phenylalanine are;
Used to produce certain compounds
Like other amino acids, phenylalanine plays a vital role in the production of some key compounds important to health. For example, it is used to produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in learning, memory, and emotion.
The body also converts phenylalanine to tyrosine, an amino acid that aids in the synthesis of proteins. It is also involved in the production of norepinephrine and epinephrine, which are neurotransmitters released by the body in response to stressful situations.
When there is a deficiency in this important amino acid, we come across a long list of problems such as mental confusion, depression, memory loss and fatigue.
Relieves depression
One of the key benefits of L-phenylalanine is its ability to improve mood and protect against depression. Some studies have found strong evidence that it positively improves mood.
Parkinson's disease affects the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as tremors. According to a research, Parkinson's disease results from depletion of tyrosine, dopamine, and norepinephrine, all of which are synthesized from phenylalanine.
Relieves chronic pain
Some studies have determined that phenylalanine is a natural pain reliever that helps reduce chronic pain.
Supports weight loss
Studies with L-phenylalanine have found a reduction in waist size. Because the levels of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that helps keep appetite under control, have increased.
Relieves alcohol withdrawal
Research has shown that this amino acid along with other amino acids can help relieve alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Phenylalanine Harms
Phenylalanine is found in many protein-containing foods. It is designated as “generally safe” by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This amount of phenylalanine in foods does not pose a risk to healthy individuals. However, pregnant women should avoid taking phenylalanine supplements.
There is one notable exception for this amino acid. Individuals with an amino acid metabolism disorder, or phenylketonuria (PKU), cannot process this amino acid properly. in bloodphenylalanine concentrations are 400 times higher than those without PKU. These dangerously high concentrations can cause brain damage and intellectual disabilities, as well as problems with the transport of other amino acids to the brain.
Because of the severity of phenylketonuria, babies are usually screened for PKU soon after birth. Individuals with PKU are usually fed a special low-protein diet that is maintained throughout their lives.
Phenylalanine occurs naturally in food sources containing both plant and animal protein. Meat, fish and poultry, eggs, nuts, seeds and soy products are some of the foods rich in phenylalanine.
As a food additive, phenylalanine is found in chewing gum, soda, and other diet products. It is an artificial sweetener consisting of aspartame, aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Although it has been approved for use by the FDA, there are serious questions about its safety.
Phenylalanine supplements are available for those who want to increase dopamine with supplements. These supplements are usually available in powder or capsule form. It has a variety of potential uses but is primarily used to boost mood and mental acuity.
