Everyone experiences anxious feelings from time to time. However, constant, uncontrollable feelings of anxiety may be an indication of a clinical anxiety disorder. While certain traditional treatments like medication and psychotherapy are often helpful, some research has also demonstrated the benefits of phenylalanine supplementation on symptoms of anxiety. Consult your doctor before you use any dietary supplements.
About Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine is an amino acid that occurs in two forms - L-phenylalanine, found naturally in dietary sources, and D-phenylalanine, its synthetic form. Phenylalanine is necessary for the production of tyrosine, another amino acid that plays a role in the formation of L-dopa, which helps make norepinephrine and epinephrine. These three neurotransmitters are important for mood regulation and cognition. Dietary sources of phenylalanine include proteins like meat, fish and eggs. Some researchers have tested the effects of a combination of the two forms of phenylalanine for its benefits on mood disorders and symptoms of anxiety. Additionally, some research has shown that a lack of phenylalanine can cause a number of undesirable symptoms, such as anxiety and depression.
About Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal response to fear or stress. In fact, anxiety is necessary to mobilize your protective "fight-or-flight" response, which helps you respond to the fearful or stressful situation. However, anxiety disorders occur when you experience persistent anxiety without the presence of a stressor. Some of the symptoms you may experience include excessive worry, irritability, insomnia, sweating or trembling, headaches and tension. A number of interesting studies have demonstrated the effect of phenylalanine on symptoms of anxiety.
Clinical Evidence
A study published in the January 2002 "Journal of Psychopharmacology" showed that healthy male study participants experienced an increase in anxiety levels when given a drink deficient in phenylalanine and tyrosine. Interestingly, study participants who received a drink containing balanced amounts of tyrosine and phenylalanine showed increased alertness. Another study, published in 1977 in the "Journal of Neural Transmission," examined the effects of DL-phenylalanine supplementation on patients suffering from depression. The results found that patients receiving the supplementation experienced not only a reduction in levels of depression, they also demonstrated reduced levels of anxiety and improved sleep. Although these results show promise for patients suffering from anxiety disorders, further studies should be conducted to fully evaluate its benefits.
Considerations
Although commercially-prepared phenylalanine supplements are available in tablet and capsule form, it's generally best to obtain nutrients from dietary sources. Inform your doctor if you plan to use a phenylalanine supplement. Never use dietary supplements to self-treat symptoms you may be experiencing. Anxiety disorders can become worse if not properly treated and should be diagnosed by a mental health professional or your doctor.
References
- Tufts Medical Center: Phenylalanine
- "Journal of Psychopharmacology"; Behavioural effects of acute phenylalanine and tyrosine depletion in healthy male volunteers; E. Grevet, et al; January 2002
- "Journal of Neural Transmission"; DL-phenylalanine in Depressed Patients: An Open Study; H. Beckmann, M. A. Strauss and E. Ludolph; 1977
