Tyrosine is one of the many amino acids found in your body. In most people, tyrosine is naturally produced. However, some people with deficiencies must take tyrosine supplements. Additionally, you can find tyrosine in many foods that you eat, including eggs, oats, wheat, dairy products, beans and some meats. Most protein supplements also contain some quantity of tyrosine.
What is it Used For?
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, taking tyrosine supplements may make you feel more awake and less stressed because tyrosine may help the body's coping mechanisms. Tyrosine supplements are also sometimes used to treat depression, ADHD, and premenstrual syndrome. However, there are no studies confirming tyrosine's effectiveness for these off-label uses.
Inconsistent Side Effects
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you may experience some negative side effects from taking tyrosine supplements. However, these side effects don't occur uniformly in people who take tyrosine supplements. Sometimes, tyrosine supplements can also have the opposite of their intended effect. For instance, contrary to its use as an aid for mental and physical alertness, tyrosine supplements may cause fatigue in some individuals. Tyrosine can also cause joint pain that contributes to the general feeling of a tired body.
Potentially Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects associated with tyrosine include migraines, heartburn, and a very upset stomach. Other series potential side effects include elevated blood pressure and hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism involves overproduction of the thyroid hormone in the thyroid. In some cases, hyperthyroidism is fatal if left untreated. You may also experience an allergic reaction when taking tyrosine supplements. Signs of an allergic reaction include a sudden rash, wheezing or difficulty breathing and other common indications of an allergy.
Side Effect or Coincidence?
Researchers have conducted only small, limited studies on tyrosine supplements. Because of the limits of small studies, it is undetermined if the side effects are directly related to the use of tyrosine supplements, from other non-related factors, or simply a coincidence. For example, having a headache is very common and can result from many things. Without further studies, there is no way to know for sure if tyrosine causes headaches. While observed side effects such as migraines and sudden increases in blood pressure are less common than other side effects associated with tyrosine, researchers need to conduct more studies to determine conclusively the side effects of taking tyrosine supplements.
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