L-Tyrosine and Mental, Physical Health
L-tyrosine is one of the building blocks of proteins necessary for human life. It is an organic compound quite widespread in nature, for it is abundant in many food products that are readily available such as chicken, fish, milk, cheese, avocados, peanuts, and almonds, among others. In the nervous system, it is central to the production of neurotransmitters. The human body is capable of producing this amino acid, but there are some cases where it fails to metabolize its biological precursor, phenylalanine.
Although not considered an essential amino acid, the biosynthesis of L-tyrosine necessitates the presence of an essential amino acid. People of all ages who suffer from a metabolic disorder that imperils its synthesis are in danger of developing brain damage that leads to seizures, retardation, and cognitive decline. L-tyrosine is indispensable in the manufacture of neurotransmitters and hormones that affects not only brain function but also physical capacity. Here’s why:
L-Tyrosine And Stress
Counteracts Stress Factors
Catecholamines are a group of chemical compounds responsible for physiological responses to stressful conditions, and as such are dubbed “fight or flight” hormones. These hormones produced and released by the adrenal glands enter the circulatory system and act on the nervous system. However, the adrenal glands are not capable of synthesizing catecholamines without L-tyrosine.
First, L-tyrosine is converted into L-DOPA, which crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases the level of catecholamines in the brain and the rest of the central nervous system in response to stress. At the same time, it assists the peripheral nervous system in conditioning the blood vessels and skeletal muscles to respond to stress factors appropriately, allowing us to feel a sudden rush of energy.
L-Tyrosine And Energy
Stimulates the Nervous System
Metabolites of L-tyrosine are often sold as medications with psychoactive properties. In fact, many stimulants and antidepressants are either catecholamine analogues or precursors to catecholamines. Supplementation of L-tyrosine appears to work on the same principle. It influences mood and creates feelings of well-being as it raises the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
In general most of the psychoactive drugs available in the market are considered safe. That being said, many researchers do not discount the fact that they may have adverse effects right after intake or in the long run. One of the most common concerns is their cytotoxic properties, which is tied to the pathogenesis of many diseases. L-tyrosine is believed to be safer in that it provides the biological precursor needed to manufacture brain chemicals in contrast to adding them to the system.
Helps Maintain Concentration
Catecholamines are chemicals that induce neuronal activities. Low levels of catecholamines have been detected in individuals diagnosed with depression whereas the opposite has been observed to have a negative impact on motivation as a behavior. Supplementation of L-tyrosine has been associated with the improvement of cognitive function, such as enhanced mental performance amid repetitive tasks.
If you need a Mood boost, Concentration boost, and energy boost, give L-Tyrosine a try!