Phenylalanine

An Amino Acid

Description:

Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid and is a precursor for another amino acid, tyrosine, making it therefore a precursor for the catecholamines, tyramine, dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine. Phenylalanine is also a constituent of mescaline, codeine, morphine and papaverine, all psychotropic drugs. Biopterin, niacin, copper, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and iron are required for normal metabolism of phenylalanine.

Plants/Foods:

Aspartame
Cheese
Chicken
Duck
Egg
Granola
Oat flakes
Pork
Turkey
Wheat germ
Wild game

Physiologic Functions:

Blocks enkephalinase in the CNS
Precursor to tyrosine, tyramine, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine
Required for normal thyroid function
Triggers the release of cholycystokinin, including satiety

Clinical Indications:

Bipolar disorder
Depression
Hypothyroidism
Multiple sclerosis
Memory loss
Obesity
Pain, associated with: dysmenorrhea, joint pains, low back pain, migraine, osteoarthritis, PMS, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and whiplash
Parkinson's disease
Vitiligo (used in connection with ultra violet light)

Signs and Symptoms of Deficiency:

Behavioral changes
Cataracts
Circulatory problems
Emotional disorders
Injected eyes
Lack of melanin
Weight gain

Causes of Deficiencies:

Inborn errors of metabolism

Contraindications:

Do not supplement if taking MAO's (monoamine oxidase drugs)
Hypertension
Phenylketonurics
Pregnant or lactating women

Toxicity and Side Effects:

May cause headaches