L-Tyrosine Introduction

L-Tyrosine is not an essential amino acid since tyrosine can be made from the amino acid phenylalanine. Tyrosine is converted into dopamine and norepinephrine. Supplementation with both tyrosine and phenylalanine leads to alertness and arousal.

L-tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid (protein building block) that the body synthesizes from phenylalanine, another amino acid. Tyrosine is important to the structure of almost all proteins in the body. It is also the precursor of several neurotransmitters, including L-dopa, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.

L-tyrosine, through its effect on neurotransmitters, may affect several health conditions, including Parkinson's disease, depression, and other mood disorders. Studies have suggested that tyrosine may help people with depression.1 Preliminary findings indicate a beneficial effect of tyrosine, along with other amino acids, in people affected by dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.2 Due to its role as a precursor to norepinephrine and epinephrine (two of the body's main stress-related hormones) tyrosine may also ease the adverse effects of environmental, psychosocial, and physical stress.

L-tyrosine is converted by skin cells into melanin, the dark pigment that protects against the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. Thyroid hormones, which have a role in almost every process in the body, also contain tyrosine as part of their structure.

L-Tyrosine Side effects; Overstimulation, restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, heart rhythm irregularities are some common side effects that occur from high doses of tyrosine. These can occur in sensitive individuals in as low a dose as 200 mg.

L-Tyrosine Summary: Tyrosine is an amino acid that can be used in the mornings to enhance alertness and focus. Too high a dose can cause over-stimulation. irritability, restlessness, anxiety, and heart rhythm irregularities. Some users find that it enhances their mood. N-Acetyl-Tyrosine is a a good alternative to tyrosine. Less of a dose of acetyl-tyrosine is required to achieve the same effects as tyrosine without the acetylation. A dose of 100 to 300 mg of acetyl-tyrosine is sufficient for most people.

Where is L-Tyrosine found? Dairy products, meats, fish, wheat, oats, and most other protein-containing foods contain tyrosine.

L-tyrosine has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information): Depression, Phenylketonuria, Alcohol withdrawal support, Parkinson's disease, etc..

L-Tyrosine is used to treat conditions including depression or mood disorder, poor coping ability, fatigue, low sex drive, low metabolism, and drug abuse (when combined with Tryptophan). It can also improve endurance under stress and is effective as an appetite suppressant. When taken properly, L-Tyrosine can assist a sluggish thyroid and aid the dieter in losing excess, unwanted pounds. 

L-Tyrosine Dosage and use: 1. Suggested dose is 500 to 1000 mg in the morning or afternoon.  2. More may be necessary for depression or pain. 3. These products are most effectively utilized when taken on an empty stomach mixed with juice or water. 4. Adequate cofactors (vitamins B6 and C) should also be taken if not included with the product. 

L-Tyrosine Caution: Cancer patients should avoid taking L-phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine. Certain cancers, such as melanoma, depend on these amino acids to fuel their growth. Supplemental use of L-phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine may raise or normalize blood pressure. Insomnia may occur from overstimulation if taken too close to bedtime.