L-Tyrosine
LโTyrosine
Snapshot
LโTyrosine is a nonโessential amino acid precursor to dopamine, norepinephrine, and thyroid hormones, supporting cognitive performance, stress resilience, and mood stabilization.
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What is LโTyrosine?
LโTyrosine is a proteinogenic amino acid synthesized from phenylalanine; it serves as the building block for catecholamines and thyroid hormones that regulate mental and metabolic functions.
Where It Comes From
Dietary sources include chicken, turkey, fish, dairy, eggs, nuts, seeds, and soy products; LโTyrosine is also available as a standalone supplement in capsule or powder form.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Supplemental LโTyrosine provides the freeโform amino acid that converts into LโDOPA and then into dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine; vitamin B6, vitamin C, and copper are required cofactors.
Health Benefits
LโTyrosine enhances cognitive performance and alertness under stress; supports mental focus and working memory; aids mood regulation; and contributes to healthy thyroid hormone production.
Recommended Dosage
Supplemental doses typically range from 500โฏmg to 2โฏg daily, taken in the morning or before anticipated stress; start at lower doses and adjust based on tolerance and effect.
How to Use It
Take LโTyrosine on an empty stomach with water; avoid taking concurrently with highโprotein meals to reduce competition for absorption.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals under acute stress, those with high cognitive demands (e.g., shift workers, students, athletes), or anyone seeking natural support for energy, focus, and mood regulation.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May interact with thyroid medications, MAO inhibitors, and stimulant drugs; high doses can raise blood pressure; consult a healthcare provider if on medication.
Final Thoughts
LโTyrosine is a valuable supplement for boosting neurotransmitter synthesis and stress resilience, but should be used judiciously and under professional guidance when combined with other medications.
Scientific Studies
Neri DF, Wiegmann D, Stanny RR, Walter GM, McCardie A, Shappell SA. Cognitive enhancing effects of Lโtyrosine. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1995;52(3):647โ654. https://doi.org/10.1016/0091-3057(95)00193-Z
Jongkees BJ, Hommel B, Kรผhn S, Colzato LS. Effect of tyrosine supplementation on clinical and healthy populations under stress or cognitive challenges: a review. J Psychopharmacol. 2015;29(4):454โ468. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881114565246
Deijen JB, Wientjes CJ, Vullinghs HF, Cloin PA, Langefeld JJ. Tyrosine improves cognitive performance and reduces blood pressure in cadets after one week of combat training. Brain Res Bull. 1999;48(2):203โ209. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0361-9230(98)00204-X