Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid.
This means that, in addition to being essential for the proper functioning of the body, it cannot be synthesised by the body and must therefore be obtained from a varied and balanced diet.
Phenylalanine has several benefits and effects on the body, particularly at the level of the nervous system and in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
Phenylalanine key points
- Essential amino acid not synthesised by the body
- Found mainly in meat and dairy products
- Aspartame is made from phenylalanine
- Essential for the synthesis of neurotransmitters
- Phenylketonuria is a rare genetic disorder that results in the inability to metabolise phenylalanine.
Phenylalanine: benefits and effects on the body
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid in the body, which means that the body cannot synthesise it and it is important to get it from food.
Phenylalanine, dopamine and adrenaline
Phenylalanine is essential for the production of adrenaline, a hormone that regulates the heart.
It is also a precursor amino acid of adrenaline.
Note that phenylalanine is also one of the precursors of dopamine, which in turn is a precursor of adrenaline and noradrenaline.
In addition to their role in maintaining vital functions (heart, brain, etc.), all these molecules are necessary for well-being and are closely linked to happiness.
Link with aspartame
Aspartame is a derivative of phenylalanine obtained by combining it with aspartic acid.
All foods containing aspartame therefore contain phenylalanine.
Stimulates the thyroid gland
Involved in the function of the thyroid gland, which regulates pain, mood and appetite.
20 foods rich in phenylalanine
- Spirulina
- Tofu
- Parmesan cheese
- Skim milk powder
- Steak
- Roast turkey
- Bean sprouts
- Hazelnuts
- Veal calf
- Calf liver
- Lentils
- Brie cheese
- Mozzarella
- Roquefort
- Boiled egg
- Feta cheese
- Baked beans
- Leek
- Bell pepper
- Peas
How should phenylalanine be used?
Use of phenylalanine in food supplements
L-phenylalanine-based food supplements are available.
They are generally recommended for the treatment of depressive and emotional disorders.
They can also have a positive effect on cognitive and intellectual abilities.
This amino acid also acts as a natural appetite suppressant and regulates binge eating.
In general, phenylalanine supplementation helps to regulate the functions of the body as a whole.
The general recommendation is to take 500 mg of L-phenylalanine per day.
However, it is best to seek the advice of a doctor or dietician before considering taking a supplement.
Phenylalanine is not suitable for everyone.
Consult a doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a heart condition, neurodegenerative disease or major depressive disorder.
Adverse effects of phenylalanine
Dietary recommendations put the required intake of phenylalanine for a healthy adult at 200 to 1000 mg per day.
Phenylalanine deficiency: a danger for the body?
Symptoms include tiredness, depression, constant pain and difficulty concentrating.
It is possible to take phenylalanine supplements, but they are not recommended, especially for people with heart problems.
Phenylalanine and disease, what is phenylketonuria?
Phenylalanine is broken down naturally and eliminated by the liver or kidneys.
In rare cases, a condition called phenylketonuria prevents the elimination of phenylalanine and leads to excessive levels of phenylalanine in the blood.
Phenylketonuria is a rare and potentially fatal genetic disorder.
It results from the body's inability to convert phenylalanine to tyrosine due to a defect in an enzyme.
It affects one in 16,000 newborns and can cause severe mental retardation if left untreated.
The main treatment for phenylketonuria is very strict control of the amount of phenylalanine in the diet that can be metabolised by the child.
Interaction of phenylalanine with Parkinson's disease
Phenylalanine interacts with treatments used to treat Parkinson's disease or certain mental and depressive disorders.
Chemical properties
The molecular formula of the phenylalanine molecule is C9H11NO2 and its molecular weight is 165.1891 g/mol.
It is one of the 9 essential amino acids.
It is the precursor of many other molecules such as tyrosine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, melanin and even aspartame.