Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid your body uses to manufacture proteins. Tyrosine is made from the amino acid phenylalanine and was identified in the mid 1800s as a byproduct of the breakdown of casein, a protein found in cow's milk. This amino acid is involved in a variety of health functions that may be affected as you transition through menopause.
Precursor Functions
Your body uses tyrosine to produce a variety of hormones and neurotransmitters that modulate physical and mental functions. The hormones adrenaline and cortisol help sustain your energy levels and decrease pain and inflammation. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter in your brain, improves motivation and prevents depression. Noradrenaline functions as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter, increasing the rate and strength of contractions of your heart and promoting mental alertness. Tyrosine deficiency can impair these functions at menopause, a time when you need them to counterbalance the repercussions from declining estrogen levels, according to Linda Ojeda, Ph.D., author of the book "Menopause Without Medicine."
Depression
Mild depression associated with menopause might respond well to tyrosine supplementation. Doses of one 1 to 6 g have been used successfully to treat some forms of depression, according to Eric Braverman, M.D., author of the book "The Healing Nutrients Within: Facts, Findings, and New Research on Amino Acids." Lower doses are often effective as well. Doses of as little as 350 mg may improve your brain levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine. Consult your doctor for guidance and supervision when using tyrosine.
Thyroid
Your thyroid gland might benefit from tyrosine supplementation during menopause. This amino acid contributes to the production of thyroid hormones. Your metabolic rate and mental sharpness rely on adequate thyroid hormone levels, according to Daniel G. Amen, author of "The Amen Solution: The Brain Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Keep It Off." Tyrosine may help reduce menopause-related weight gain and keep you from experiencing the mental fog and forgetfulness so many women complain of during menopause. By contrast, deficiency of tyrosine results in physical and mental sluggishness that can add to your menopause symptoms. Avoid tyrosine if you also take an MAO inhibitor or tricyclic antidepressant or if you have high blood pressure. Consult your doctor before using tyrosine to treat menopause or any medical condition.
Effectiveness
Tyrosine is often as effective against anxiety and depression as conventional medications, according to Gabriel Cousens, M.D., author of "Depression-Free for Life: A Physician's All-Natural, 5-Step Plan." If your mild depression and anxiety symptoms during menopause are related to tyrosine or dopamine imbalance, you may experience relief in as little as two days, says Cousens.
References
- "Menopause Without Medicine"; Linda Ojeda; 2003
- "The Healing Nutrients Within: Facts, Findings, and New Research on Amino Acids"; Eric R. Braverman, et al.; 2003
- "The Amen Solution: The Brain Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Keep It Off"; Daniel G. Amen; 2011
- "Depression-Free for Life: A Physician's All-Natural, 5-Step Plan"; Gabriel Cousens, Mark Mayell; 2001
- InfoPlease.com: Tyrosine
