Description

L-phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that cannot be naturally manufactured by your body. It needs to be acquired via external sources and then converted within your body through several steps. It begins in the liver, where it is converted to L-tyrosine. The process continues in the brain and adrenal glands, where L-tyrosine can be converted to dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine (adrenaline hormone). These hormones are often reduced by stress, overwork and certain drugs and need to be replenished. Norepinephrine, for example, enhances mental energy levels that often induce a feeling of contentment. The conversion step from L-tyrosine to norepinephrine may be enhanced if the co-factors (vitamins B6 and C) are included.Cells in the adrenal medulla synthesise and secrete norepinephrine and epinephrine. Because norepinephrine and epinephrine can cause smooth muscle (arterial) contraction, supplementing with L-phenylalanine is not recommended for individuals prone to high blood pressure. D,L-phenylalanine is a 50/50 mixture of the stereoisomers D-phenylalanine and L- phenylalanine.