Tyrosine
is important to overall metabolism. It is a precursor of adrenaline
and the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which regulate
mood and stimulate metabolism and the nervous systems. Tyrosine
acts as a mood elevator; a lack of adequate amounts of tyrosine
leads to a deficiency of norephinephrine in the brain, which in turn
can result in depression. It also acts as a mild antioxidant, suppresses
the appetite, and helps to reduce body fat. It aids in the
production of melanin (the pigment responsible for skin and hair color)
and the functions of the adrenal, thyroid,
and pituitary glands. It is also involved in the metabolism
of the amino acid phenylalanine.
Tyrosine
attaches to iodine atoms to form active thyroid hormones. Not surprisingly,
therefore, low plasma levels of tyrosine have been associated with hypothyroisism.
Symptoms of tyrosine deficiency can also include low blood pressure,
low body temperature.
Supplemental
L-tyrosine has been used for stress reduction, and research suggests
it may be helpful against chronic fatigue and narcolepsy. It has been
used to help individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, low sex
drive, allergies, and headaches, as well as persons undergoing withdrawal
from drugs. It may also help people with Parkinson’s disease.
Tyrosine
can also be produced from phenylalanine in the body. Supplements of
L-tyrosine should be taken at bedtime or with a high-carbohydrate meal
so that it does not have to compete for absorption with other amino
acids.
Caution:
Persons taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, commonly prescribed
for depression, must strictly limit their intake of foods containing
tyrosine and should not take any supplements containing L-tyrosine,
as it may lead to a sudden and dangerous rise in blood pressure. Anyone
who takes prescription medication for depression should discus necessary
dietary restrictions with his or her physician.