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Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid that plays a significant role in metabolism, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones. It is found in dairy products, fish, avocados, and nuts. Tyrosine deficiency is rare, but abnormal use occurs in some syndromes. Supplementation is available, but it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking it.
Tyrosine, also known as 4-hydroxyphenylalanine or L-tyrosine, is a nonessential amino acid that the body synthesizes from another amino acid called phenylalanine. It gets its name from the Greek tyros, which means “cheese,” because it is found in the casein proteins in cheese and other dairy products. Other natural food sources include fish, avocados, bananas, lima beans, almonds, peanuts, and sunflower and pumpkin seeds.
This amino acid plays a significant role in metabolism. For one thing, it interacts with proteins that undergo signal transduction to initiate various cellular processes. Tyrosine receptor kinases serve as pathways to transport phosphate compounds in a process known as phosphorylation which produces phosphotyrosine. These activities involve virtually all proteins in the body and are responsible for regulating the production of numerous enzymes. In addition, tyrosine is a precursor to many other substances, including neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain, hormones produced by the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands, and the skin pigment melanin.
In particular, tyrosine is required for the body to synthesize serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are involved in signaling between nerve cells and synapses in the brain. These agents also influence mood and libido, which is why these substances are sometimes called “feel-good hormones”. In fact, several studies indicate that supplementing with this amino acid can help relieve chronic stress, anxiety, and mild depression.
True tyrosine deficiency is rare, but abnormal use occurs in some syndromes. For example, oculocutaneous albinism is characterized by the inability to synthesize melanin from the amino acid. Phenylketonuria is characterized by the inability to synthesize phenylalanine into tyrosine, a condition that can lead to brain damage. While this condition may constitute a deficiency, dietary phenylalanine should be strictly avoided and tyrosine supplementation controlled. Low levels can also equate to low levels of the thyroid hormone thyroxine, a condition that can promote hypothyroidism and impaired central nervous system functioning.
Since there are few instances where tyrosine supplementation is needed, there are no standard dietary recommendations in place. However, in the absence of uncommon syndromes such as those mentioned above, a low level may be indicated by a low body temperature or low blood pressure. It is recommended that you consult a qualified healthcare professional before supplementing with this amino acid.
If tyrosine supplementation is thought to be necessary, it is available as tablets or capsules in units ranging from 50 to 1,000 mg. To facilitate absorption, it is recommended that the supplements be taken with a meal that includes carbohydrates, preferably just before bed. Additionally, taking vitamin B6, folic acid, or vitamin B9 such as folate and copper also helps increase the absorption of this amino acid.
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