PureBulk

What is L-Phenylalanine?

L-phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is necessary for the normal functioning of the central nervous system. It occurs as a constituent of many proteins and is naturally converted to tyrosine in the body.

L-phenylalanine must be derived from dietary sources. It is available in most foods that contain protein, including beef, poultry, pork, fish, milk, yogurt, eggs, cheese, soy products and certain nuts and seeds. Banana is also a rich source of phenylalanine, as well as the artificial sweetener aspartame (found in soft drinks and gum).

The body requires phenylalanine to synthesize epinephrine, dopamine and norepinephrine, three neurotransmitters in the brain.

There are three different chemical forms of phenylalanine: L-phenylalanine, the natural form of phenylalanine found in proteins throughout the body; D-phenylalanine, a mirror image of L-phenylalanine that is synthesized in a laboratory; and DL-phenylalanine a combination of the previous two forms.

L-phenylalanine plays a role in mood, appetite and mental alertness. It functions and acts as a building block for numerous proteins that are produced in the body.

L-phenylalanine can be converted to the amino acid L-tyrosine and subsequently to dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine.

The conversion of L-phenylalanine to L-tyrosine is via the enzyme l-phenylalanine hydroxylase. L-phenylalanine can also be converted (through a separate pathway) to phenylethylamine, a substance that occurs naturally in the brain and appears to affect mood.

Health Benefits of L-Phenylalanine

L-phenylalanine is an amino acid necessary for the overall health of the human body. Once in the body it is converted into another amino acid, tyrosine. Tyrosine is then transformed into key neurotransmitters, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These are compounds that transmit signals between nerve cells and affect mood.

In the liver, phenylalanine is involved in many biochemical reactions, like protein synthesis and oxidative catabolic reactions.

Purity of L-Phenylalanine

L-phenylalanine powder is a free form of the amino acid, the most basic form without any additional chemical groups attached. This product contains no additives, fillers or anti-caking agents.

Suggested Use of L-Phenylalanine

The suggested use of L-phenylalanine is 500 milligrams (rounded 1/8 tsp) taken one to three times daily between meals, or as directed by physician. Those who haven't taken L-phenylalanine previously may need to take if for two weeks before its beneficial effects are noticed. For best results, start with a smaller serving size and work up to a larger quantity after a few weeks. For instance, start with a level 1/16 teaspoon (238 mg) three times per day, then after a couple weeks increase the serving size to a level 1/8 teaspoon (477 mg) three times per day. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for L-Phenylalanine here. Recommended use of phenylalanine varies depending on the health condition of the individual. Consult a physician or a health care professional before taking any supplements.

Precautions, Potential Side Effects of L-Phenylalanine

WARNING: Those with phenylketonuria should not take this product. PKU is a rare metabolic disorder that occurs in people who are missing an enzyme that is needed to properly metabolize phenylalanine.

DO NOT use phenylalanine supplements together with prescription antidepressants, especially monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, as this may lead to life-threatening spikes in blood pressure..

Excessive use of L-phenylalanine may lead to headaches, nausea and heartburn, increased blood pressure and emotional agitation, insomnia, headaches, and tyrosine toxicity. Nerve damage may occur. Those with high blood pressure or migraines should not take phenylalanine or even eat foods high in this amino acid, as it may aggravate their condition. This product is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. People with melanoma should avoid phenylalanine supplementation.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Taste, solubility, and suggested preparation of L-Phenylalanine

This product dissolves somewhat slowly in cold water, faster in hot water and has very little flavor or taste. Mix with water or juice and drink.

References & Further Research

University of Maryland Medical Center: Phenylalanine

Wikipedia: Phenylalanine



NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.