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Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that cannot be produced
by the body and thus must be obtained through the diet. Dietary
sources of the amino acid are principally derived from animal and
vegetable proteins. Vegetables and juices contain small amounts of
the free amino acid. The free amino acid is also found in fermented
foods such as yogurt and miso. The alternative sweetener aspartame
is a dipeptide of L-phenylalanine, as is methyl ester and L-aspartic
acid. Phenylalanine is used in different biochemical processes to
produce neurotransmitters, dopamine, nor epinephrine, and
epinephrine.
Phenylalanine can be converted in the body to
tyrosine, which in turn is used to synthesize two important
neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. It is available in
three different forms: L-, D- and DL-. The L- form is the most
common and the type in which is incorporated into the body's
proteins. The D- form acts as a painkiller and the DL- as a
combination of the two.
Some studies indicate that
L-phenylalanine may be helpful for some individuals suffering from
depression. It may also be useful when used in connection with
vitiligo. There is some evidence that L-phenylalanine may exacerbate
tardive dyskinesia in some schizophrenic patients and in some who
have used neuroleptic
drugs.
Dosage
L-phenylalanine
supplements, as well as DL-phenylalanine (see DL-Phenylalanine)
supplements, are available in the nutritional supplement
marketplace. Those who use L-phenylalanine supplements typically use
500 milligrams to 1.5 grams daily.
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