Protein - Tyrosine

Question 1

Tyrosine

Answer 1

Tyrosine is a conditionally essential amino acid derived from phenylalanine.

Question 2

Food Sources

Answer 2

Food sources: nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains (e.g. quinoa, oats), fish, meat, poultry.

Question 3

Functions:
Endocrine Health

Answer 3

Functions:
* Tyrosine is a precursor to the thyroid hormones, dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), norepinephrine (noradrenaline).
* It is also a precursor to melanin (the skin pigment).
Therapeutic Uses:
* Adrenal fatigue
* Hypothyroidism
* ADHD
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Cognition

Question 4

Supplementation: Dosage

Answer 4

• 400-6000mg/day.
• Tyrosine seems to be safe when used in doses up to 150 mg/kg per day for up to 3 months.

Question 5

Drug Interactions:

Answer 5

• MAOI antidepressants (the enzyme MAO deactivates dopamine etc.)
• Levodopa
• Thyroxine.

Question 6

Contraindicated:

Answer 6

• Overactive thyroid. Taking extra tyrosine might increase thyroxine levels, worsening cases of hyperthyroidism.
• Melanoma.

Question 7

Caution:

Answer 7

• High doses can cause gastrointestinal upset.