Tyrosine characteristics
- Most important non-essential amino acid for the body
- Involved in the synthesis of many neurotransmitters
- Found mainly in animal products and oilseeds
- L-tyrosine supplements are widely used in sports and to combat fatigue
- Antioxidant activity that slows down cellular ageing
Functions and Benefits of Tyrosine
Hormone synthesis
Tyrosine is involved in the synthesis of adrenaline and noradrenaline, as well as melanin (the pigment in skin and hair) and thyroid hormones.
Antioxidant
Tyrosine has an antioxidant action that limits cellular ageing.
Anti-fatigue and anti-stress
In the case of intense physical activity, tyrosine supplementation may be considered to stimulate dopamine production and improve recovery.
Foods rich in tyrosine
The food composition table does not indicate tyrosine content, but the list below identifies the richest foods.
- Milk
- Egg
- Meat
- Oily fish
- Walnuts
- Cashew
- Almond
- Avocado
- Mushroom
- Green Beans
- Potato
- Aubergine
- Turnip
- Radish
- Asparagus
- Parsley
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Spinach
- Rye
How to use tyrosine correctly?
Tyrosine consumption
The daily requirement for a healthy adult is estimated at 1 to 2 grams of tyrosine.
Tyrosine supplements: opinions and contraindications
L-tyrosine supplements are often prescribed to promote mental alertness and energy, especially in athletes.
They can effectively combat physical and mental fatigue.
For tyrosine supplementation, the dosage is often 500 mg of L-tyrosine per day, preferably taken in the first part of the day, when the synthesis of neuromediators in the brain is at its peak.
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are often used to inhibit the growth of tumours in the body. These inhibitors block the growth of tyrosine kinase, an enzyme directly involved in the development and growth of atypical cells.
Tyrosine side effects
Is tyrosine deficiency a health risk?
Tyrosine is mainly synthesised by the body, but it is possible to have insufficient levels.
In such situations, there is significant fatigue and low resistance to stress.
Consequences of an excess of tyrosine
There are no reports of an excess of tyrosine in the scientific literature.
Tyrosine and Parkinson's disease
Tyrosine supplementation is strongly discouraged in people being treated for dopaminergic disorders such as Parkinson's disease.
In addition, high doses of tyrosine may interact with thyroid hormones; in the case of thyroid pathology, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking L-tyrosine.
Chemical properties
The molecular formula of tyrosine is C9H11NO3 and its molecular weight is 181.1885 g/mol.
Tyrosine is an amino acid that is not considered essential for the human body. In fact, we know how to synthesise it. However, it cannot be synthesised in sufficient quantities, so it is important to get enough from food.
Tyrosine is characterised by its phenolic group, the hydroxyl of which is acidic. This amino acid is synthesised from phenylalanine. It plays a very important role because it is involved in the synthesis of many essential substances: dopamine, noradrenaline, adrenaline, etc. It is also a precursor of thyroid hormones and melanin.