Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid. Phenylalanine has a very important metabolic role in the body. It is ketogenic as well as glycogenic. Phenylalanine is initially but irreversibly hydroxylated to tyrosine.
Tyrosine then undergoes series of metabolic changes leading to the formation of hormones epinephrine, nor epinephrine, thyroxin and tri-iodothyronine. It is not synthesized in the body but in the microorganisms it is synthesized.
What it is
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is also one of the aromatic amino acids that exhibit ultraviolet radiation absorption properties and is the most commonly found aromatic amino acid.
What it does
Phenylalanine is used by the brain to produce norepinephrine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells in the brain. It promotes alertness and vitality and elevates mood. It decreases pain; aids memory and learning. It has been used to treat arthritis, depression, menstrual cramps, migraines, obesity, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia.
Benefits
- Reduction for chronic pain
- Stimulated nerve pathways
- Improve rigidity, walking disabilities, speech difficulties and depression associated with Parkinson's
- Provides relief for depression
- Appetite suppressant
- May decrease back pain, toothaches and pain associated with migraine headaches
Dosage
Adults dosage should start at 14 mg per kilogram of body weight per day.