L-tyrosine is one of those powerful amino acids that can help maintain a healthy mood and has been quite beneficial as a natural alternative for many women. The use of this amino acid is featured prominently in the self-help book, The Mood Cure, in which the author, Julia Ross, advocates using L-tyrosine to support healthy levels of free neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain (L-tyrosine is a precursor of these neurotransmitters).
The Problem with L-Tyrosine Deficiency
When supplementing with L-tyrosine for women, you’re basically compensating for the amount of L-tyrosine that you’re not getting from your diet. In addition, you are also compensating for the neurotransmitters that are being depleted by daily life, since L-tyrosine acts as a precursor to the neurotransmitters that are destroyed by stress. It’s not only our hectic lifestyles which play havoc with our levels of neurochemicals like dopamine, it’s also the way we regularly over-burden our bodies. This includes what we take into our bodies and ways in which we over-tax our limited energy reserves, for example:
- consuming too much caffeine, alcohol and dietary sugar
- taking prescription medications, especially psych meds
- staying out late at night clubs (overextending ourselves at precisely the time of day we should be recuperating)
When the body doesn’t have enough L-tyrosine, it creates it from a different amino acid called phenylalanine. Since L-tyrosine is an amino acid, it is found in most foods that contain protein. It is particularly plentiful in flesh proteins like meat and fish, dairy products like milk and cheese as well as nuts and whole grains.
The Many Positive Effects of L-Tyrosine for Women
L-tyrosine for women is often used as a supplement by those who need more energy. The hectic pace of modern life (as well as our reliance on stimulants like coffee to keep up) can take a toll on our energy levels. Some women may exhibit symptoms of underactive thyroid, low adrenal output or may just be dealing with an irregular lethargy that can sap them of the will to do anything. Others may suffer from a more serious condition known as chronic fatigue syndrome or the related myalgic encephalomyelitis. L-tyrosine can be a way to provide certain areas of your body the missing building blocks to form the energy you need. Here are just some of the benefits supplementing with L-tyrosine may provide:
- L-Tyrosine has gained quite a reputation for helping to maintain a healthy mood. In addition to Julia Ross’s The Mood Cure, Dr. Priscilla Slagle released the book The Way Up From Down, which featured L-tyrosine as an integral part of her treatment regimen.
- L-tyrosine may also positively affect other aspects of mental health including hyperactivity, healthy cognitive function and just helping to keep an even emotional balance.
- L-tyrosine can be used for achieving overall better mental focus. The supplement can be helpful for those dealing with brain fog issues or just those needing to concentrate better. Many students report that L-tyrosine can help support healthy cognitive function.
- L-tyrosine is well known as a supplement that helps boost energy levels. In addition to taking it as a pre-workout supplement, some people also take it before retiring for the night. Many users report feeling more refreshed after they wake up when they take L-tyrosine the night before.
- Many users of L-tyrosine also say it improves their libido. This effect can have a profound influence on how one experiences the joys of his or her partner. L-tyrosine is often used synergistically with ingredients like maca to potentiate sexual pleasure and desire.
Considerations When Using L-Tyrosine
Because L-tyrosine can introduce more energy into one’s system, there can be some unpleasant side-effects, especially during the acclimation period. These side-effects can include anxiety, nervousness, elevated heart beat and insomnia. These side-effects are greatly diminished when users slowly ramp up their dose of supplemental L-tyrosine.
As with any dietary supplement, it’s prudent to consult with your doctor if you wish to start taking L-tyrosine and have a health condition or are already on prescription medication.