Tyrosine is a natural amino acid used to build structural proteins and enzymes. Since it is difficult to obtain recommended amounts of L-tyrosine through natural dietary sources, supplements are recommended. L-tyrosine supports the nervous system by producing several compounds in the body that affect the brain and nerve cells, including epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine.
Recent research is focused on the effect of Tyrosine on neurotransmitters--the nerve impulses that influence mental mood and alertness. As a result, Tyrosine has been shown to have a positive effect on mental alertness, memory, and depression.
Specifically, L-tyrosine supports the production of the hormone norepinephrine in the brain. A lack of norepinephrine can cause mood problems, such as hyperactivity, depression and substance abuse. Therefore, L-tyrosine supplementation can play a role in treating these disorders by recharging the depleted nervous system with neurotransmitters. L-tyrosine is being used in the treatment of cocaine addiction. L-tyrosine has been used to control appetite and reduce the symptoms of allergies.
A deficiency of L-Tyrosine can impair the body’s ability to produce the neurotransmitters that affect mental mood and alertness. This can result in mood disorders, such as depression and hyperactivity.
Tyrosine can be found in meats, eggs and dairy products.
It is recommended that L-tyrosine be taken in balance with other amino acids Since the body can make L-tyrosine out of L-phenylalanine, its precursor, the amount of L-phenylalanine in the body also determines the level of supplementation required.
For an adult, in the treatment of depression, daily dosages of 850 milligrams of L-tyrosine with B-6 is recommended. For those under 100 pounds, a daily dosage of 500 milligrams is recommended.
Growing children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with cancer should obtain a doctor’s approval before taking L-tyrosine. Treatment of mood disorders with L-tyrosine should be done under a doctor’s supervision.
References*Baumel, Syd. Dealing With Depression Naturally. New Canaan, CT: Keats Publishing,Inc., 1995.
*Blum, Kenneth, Ph.D. Handbook of Abusable Drugs. New York, NY: Gardner Press, Inc., 1984.
