Phenylalanine is an essential alpha-amino acid very essential for the human body and is bipolar by nature due to the hydrophobic properties of its benzyl side chain.
The common sources of this amino acid includes protein-rich foods including beef, egg, meat, legume, nuts and seeds.
Reported Effects
1) Helps to build a strong and healthy body.
2) Builds muscle cells.
3) Repairs damaged muscle tissue.
Reported effects include:
Helps build a strong and healthy body – The major benefit of taking phenylalanine supplements is to develop a healthy and strong body. Proteins are the building blocks of the human body, and dietary supplements containing this amino acid contribute majorly in synthesis of proteins.
Builds muscle cells – Proteins being the major component of muscle cells, phenylalanine greatly influences the building of muscle fibers and allows the body to perform heavy physical exercise for a long duration.
Strengthens body organs – Phenylalanine is also a major component of ligaments, tendons, and body glands. The functions of this alpha-amino acid helps to build strong organs to sustain strenuous workouts. Experts usually suggest supplements containing phenylalanine for bodybuilders and athletes for better performance.
Repairs damaged muscle tissue – One of the major uses of phenylalanine is for repairing the muscle tissue in the human body. Bodybuilders and athletes who encounter injuries are advised to take this amino acid based dietary supplement for a faster relief from the injuries.
Reduces joint pain – Other use of phenylalanine is for reducing the symptoms of arthritis, especially if an individual is suffering from joint pain. Since this essential amino acid helps reduce joint pain, it is widely used in medicines and other health supplements.
Helps with alcohol withdrawal symptoms – This amino acid is also known to help people to reduce the symptoms of post alcohol withdrawal. It stops relapse of alcoholic symptoms and therefore is known to be quite effective for such conditions.
Reduces depression and chronic pain – Phenylalanine induces the production of dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine all of which are highly essential to reduce the symptoms of depression and chronic pain.
Possible Dangers
Normal or recommended dosages of phenylalanine are considered safe for the human body. However, the possible side effects may include nausea, heartburn, or even headache.
FDA Approved?
Only a few supplements that contain phenylalanine have been evaluated and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Studies
Research from the University of Maryland Medical Center reported that phenylalanine can be a mood elevator and help reduce depression. Based on the reports from this research, it is known that this amino acid works with the neurotransmitters and allows transaction of messages from the brain to various body organs. It helps to keep the brain cells functional and eliminates depression over time.
As per another recent study, phenylalanine can be an effective agent for the treatment of certain brain disorders. Based on the findings in this study, this essential amino acid has the ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and relieve the brain cells from toxins, viruses, and bacteria.
A few clinical studies have reported phenylalanine as being a major component of various body organs, including muscles, joints, tendons, etc. Its dietary supplements can be taken for healthy living. Bodybuilders and athletes may take such supplements to build healthy muscles and strengthen their body parts to perform strenuous physical training exercises.
Certain studies have also reported that phenylalanine can be a major component in medicines used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), vitiligo (a skin-related disease), and others.
Supplements using this ingredient:
1. Athletic Edge Nutrition PreSurge Unleashed
2. Living Essentials 5-Hour Energy
3. BeautyFit BeautyFuel
4. Twinlab DLPA
5. Nitro2Go Fire Power Extreme Energy Shot
6. John Scott’s Nitro Shot
Conclusion
Phenylalanine is a commonly known amino acid and is widely used in various medicines and energy supplements taken by bodybuilders and athletes. Many of the commercially available dietary supplements include phenylalanine as the primary ingredient along with another vital compound known as 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine.