L-Tyrosine & Anxiety

L-Tyrosine is called a nonessential amino acid because it can be produced in the liver from another amino acid called phenylalanine. L-Tyrosine is found in animal proteins, such as chicken, fish, dairy or eggs. Taking L-Tyrosine as a supplement may be useful for some folks because it helps stimulate the thyroid and assists in producing two important hormones: norepinephrine and dopamine, essential to human function. While increasing intake of L-Tyrosine may be helpful, too much of the amino acid may provide some unpleasant side effects, including changes in mood and increased agitation resulting in anxiety.

Considerations

All amino acids are building blocks for cell development within the human body. Most have specific functions. Because L-Tyrosine focuses on energy-boosting hormones that help us feel alert, awake and may increase brain activity, too much L-Tyrosine may increase anxiety and irritability in some sensitive individuals.

Moderate Dosing for Healthy Changes

Generally, L-Tyrosine is sold over the counter in most vitamin outlets in pill form, with a single dose per tablet averaging 500 mg. It may be wise, when first supplementing with L-Tyrosine, to limit intake to half a dose. Allow the supplement to take effect over two or three weeks before expecting a substantial change and note any difference in feelings, energy levels, mood or physical reactions. The effects of L-Tyrosine could be, but are not limited to, increased alertness, increased energy levels, elevated mood, slight reduction in appetite, increased stimulation of the thyroid, or a decrease in depression or low mood.

Pay Attention To Side Effects

In rare cases, an allergy to L-Tyrosine may arise. If you experience an itching of the eyes, nose or throat, tightness around the throat, difficulty breathing or a rash, seek medical treatment immediately. Otherwise, side effects are relatively uncommon. According to Dr. Ray Sahelian, author of the book "Mind Boosters," symptoms may include restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, occasional heart palpitations or (brain) overstimulation. Other side effects may include heartburn or nausea, headaches, or joint pain. Although side effects vary, most of them manifest due to excessive doses of L-Tyrosine.

Anxiety May Increase

Due to the nature of L-Tyrosine and its effects on neurotransmitters that cause an increase in blood flow and stimulate the brain, anxiety levels may increase either dramatically or over time. A person experiencing anxiety either from an auto-immune disease such as hyper-thyroidism or another cause may wish to avoid taking L-Tyrosine supplements altogether unless recommended by a physician.