D-aspartic acid, also known simply as aspartic acid or asparaginic acid, is a nonessential amino acid. This means it is produced by your body and does not need to be acquired through your diet. Amino acids combine to form proteins; together, they serve as the building blocks of life. In your body, amino acids such as aspartic acid are needed to break down food and grow and repair body tissue. According to MedlinePlus, aspartic acid helps with hormone production and release and normal function of the nervous system. While a nonessential amino acid, you can still acquire aspartic acid through the foods you eat.
Fish, Poultry and Meat
According to Diet and Fitness Today, fish is a good source of aspartic acid, with the total amount varying by type of fish and cooking method. The average amount of aspartic acid in a 100-g serving of fish ranges between 2 and 6 g. Poultry, such as chicken and turkey, range between 2 and 3 g of aspartic acid per 100-g serving. Beef products contain 3 g of aspartic acid and pork ranges between 2 and 3 g.
Eggs and Dairy
Dairy products such as milk and cheese are a good source of aspartic acid, as are eggs. Dried eggs contain the most aspartic acid with a range of 3 to 8 g whereas cooked eggs only provide 1 g. Buttermilk and milk provides 2 g. Cheeses, such as cheddar, American, Monterey and tilsit, provide 1 g while Parmesan cheese provides 2 g.
Vegetables
According to the Diet and Fitness Today, fruits are not a high source of aspartic acid. Vegetables provide a better source, with dried spirulina seaweed topping the list with 5 g. Red and green peppers provide 2 g.
Nuts, Seeds and Legumes
Nuts and seeds are also a good source of aspartic acid, with the total content ranging between 2 and 5 g. Nuts include butternuts, almonds and walnuts. Seeds include sunflower seeds, cottonseed, sesame seed, safflower, pumpkin and squash. Flours and meal made from these seeds also provides aspartic acid. Soy protein isolate is the highest source of aspartic acid and provides 10 g, soy protein concentrate provides 7 g and soy meal provides 5 g. Tofu provides 5 g and roasted soybeans provide 4 g.
Member Comments