You need to get phenylalanine, an essential amino acid, through food because your body cannot produce it. Protein foods contain phenylalanine and other amino acids released into the body during digestion. Phenylalanine is helpful to the nervous system and in the making of neurotransmitters, which regulate mood and behavior. Deficiencies in phenylalanine may contribute to lack of energy, decreased alertness, memory problems, confusion, lack of appetite and depression.
Converts to Tyrosine
The body converts phenylalanine into tyrosine, another amino acid that works to provide energy. Tyrosine travels through the bloodstream to the brain network, where it increases production of dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine, according to Middle Tennessee State University. The neurotransmitters play roles in boosting mental alertness, energy, motivation and focus.
Protein Foods
Phenylalanine, known as L-phenylalanine in its natural form, comes from high-protein foods, including beef, pork, fish, poultry, yogurt, eggs, cheese, cottage cheese, soy products, lentils, nuts and seeds. Meats, fish and poultry contain the highest amount of phenylalanine. Consuming carbohydrate foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, helps phenylalanine absorb into the nervous system. Manufacturers also use phenylalanine in aspartame, an artificial sweetener.
Potential Benefits
Phenylalanine may help normalize blood pressure levels. The amino acid has been used to improve conditions in people with depression, mainly due to its effectiveness in raising levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Phenylalanine may strengthen the effects of UVA radiation for people with a condition called vitiligo, which causes white patches on their skin due to loss of skin color. The amino acid may improve the condition but research continues. A supplemental form of phenylalanine, called D-phenylalanine, has been used in the treatment of chronic pain and Parkinson's disease.
Energizing Effects
Foods containing phenylalanine help energize your body so you can deal better with mental and physical tasks. However, too much phenylalanine and other energy-inducing amino acids, such as tyrosine, may intensify nervousness or aggravation for people who already have anxiety. Phenylalanine has the opposite effect of another amino acid, tryptophan, which converts to serotonin in the brain. Serotonin has calming effects to help people relax and sleep better. Foods with phenylalanine are better for people seeking energy.
Rare Disorder
People with a rare metabolic disorder, called phenylketonuria, PKU, cannot consume phenylalanine. PKU prevents the body from using the amino acid properly because of a missing enzyme. In these cases, phenylalanine can build up in the body, causing mental disorders, including mental retardation. Newborns are usually tested for PKU. People with PKU eat foods without phenylalanine and usually take tyrosine supplements to help with development and energy.
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