What is L-Phenylalanine?
This compound is an essential amino acid present in many protein-rich foods. It serves as a precursor to tyrosine, which is vital for the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. This amino acid is integral to protein synthesis and various metabolic processes, contributing significantly to overall health. Due to its numerous benefits, L-Phenylalanine is widely used in personal care products, dietary supplements, functional foods, and animal nutrition.
Common Sources
- Meat: Beef, chicken, and pork are abundant in L-Phenylalanine.
- Fish: Salmon and tuna are significant sources of this amino acid.
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt provide substantial amounts of L-Phenylalanine.
- Legumes: Soybeans, lentils, and peanuts are excellent plant-based sources.
- Seeds and Nuts: Almonds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are rich in L-Phenylalanine.
How Does It Work?
It is incorporated into proteins and converted into tyrosine, which produces vital neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters regulate mood, cognitive function, and stress responses. Additionally, it supports melanin production, which is crucial in determining skin and hair color, and plays a role in thyroid hormone synthesis, which is essential to metabolic regulation.
Production Process
- Microbial Fermentation: Genetically modified bacteria are used in a fermentation process to produce L-Phenylalanine. These bacteria are cultivated in a controlled environment to optimize the production of the amino acid.
- Filtration: The fermentation broth undergoes filtration to remove bacterial cells and other impurities. This step ensures that the solution is cleaner and more refined.
- Crystallization: The filtered solution is then subjected to crystallization to isolate L-Phenylalanine in solid form. During this process, the amino acid forms crystals, separating it from the liquid.
- Drying: Finally, the crystallized L-Phenylalanine is dried to remove any remaining moisture. This results in a high-purity powdered form of L-Phenylalanine, ready for various applications.
Bulk L-Phenylalanine Specifications
Type | Supplement Ingredient |
Appearance | White crystalline powder |
Purity | 99% |
Certifications | Halal, Kosher, etc. |
Test Methods | HPLC, GC, etc. |
MOQ (minimum order quantity) | 1kg |
Sample | Available (10-20g/bag) |
OEM Service | Available, such as capsules, tablets, pills, etc. |
ODM Service | Available |
Private Label | Available |
Contract Manufacturing | Available |
L-Phenylalanine: Benefits, Side Effects, And More
For Mood and Cognitive Function
- Neurotransmitter Production: This ingredient is a precursor to dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, critical for mood regulation and cognitive function.Depression Relief: It may alleviate depression symptoms by increasing dopamine levels.
For Skin and Hair
- Melanin Production: It is involved in producing melanin, affecting skin and hair pigmentation.
- UV Protection: Increased melanin production provides some UV radiation protection.
For Pain Management
- Analgesic Properties: It can help reduce pain by increasing endorphin levels.
For Weight Management
- Appetite Control: It may help regulate appetite by influencing neurotransmitter levels and aiding in weight management.
Industry Applications and Uses
Dietary Supplements
The compound is widely used in dietary supplements, available in capsules, tablets, and powders. It is included in mood enhancement and cognitive function supplements due to its role in neurotransmitter production. It is also found in protein supplements to support muscle growth and repair.
Functional Foods
It is added to functional foods and beverages to enhance their nutritional profile. It is included in protein bars, shakes, and other fortified foods to support overall health and well-being.
Personal Care Products
It is used in skincare products for its role in melanin production, which can help improve skin tone and protect against UV radiation. It is also included in hair care products to enhance hair pigmentation.
Animal Nutrition
It is used in animal feed to support growth, cognitive function, and overall health in livestock and pets. It is particularly crucial for animals with high protein requirements.
Standard Dosage and Usage
For dietary supplements, the standard dose of L-Phenylalanine is from 500 to 1500 mg per day. It is available as capsules, tablets, or powder. The dosage should be adjusted based on individual needs and product formulations. It is recommended to take L-Phenylalanine with meals to enhance absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
Safety and Side Effects
L-Phenylalanine is generally safe for most people when taken at recommended doses. Short-term use is typically well-tolerated, with minimal adverse effects reported. However, individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder, should avoid L-Phenylalanine as their bodies cannot metabolize it properly, leading to toxic levels.
While L-Phenylalanine is generally safe, some individuals may experience minor side effects, including:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort: This may include nausea, heartburn, or stomach cramps.
- Headache: Some users might experience mild headaches.
- Anxiety: High doses may cause anxiety or jitteriness in sensitive individuals.
L-Phenylalanine VS L-Tyrosine
L-Phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine are closely related amino acids. L-Phenylalanine is a precursor to L-Tyrosine, which means the body converts L-Phenylalanine into L-Tyrosine. Both are involved in neurotransmitter production, but L-Tyrosine is more directly associated with the synthesis of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. While L-Phenylalanine can help increase L-Tyrosine levels, taking L-Tyrosine directly might be more effective for immediate neurotransmitter production.
L-Phenylalanine VS DL-Phenylalanine
L-Phenylalanine is the natural form of the amino acid, while DL-Phenylalanine is a synthetic mixture of D-Phenylalanine and L-Phenylalanine. D-Phenylalanine is not naturally occurring but has been shown to have pain-relieving properties by inhibiting enzymes that break down endorphins. DL-Phenylalanine is often used for pain management, combining the benefits of both forms.
How Should This Ingredient Be Stored?
L-Phenylalanine should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. It should be kept in an airtight container to protect it from moisture and air. The storage area should be free from strong odors and chemicals that might contaminate the product. Ideally, L-Phenylalanine should be kept at room temperature. For long-term storage, refrigeration is recommended to maintain its stability and potency. Always follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions to ensure the product remains effective and has a long shelf life.
Where Can I Find a Wholesale L-Phenylalanine Supplier?
Nutri Avenue is a leading global supplier of wholesale L-Phenylalanine. Our company sources high-quality L-Phenylalanine and conducts thorough testing to ensure its purity and potency. We offer competitive prices, reliable supply chains, and exceptional customer service. We have earned the trust of businesses in various sectors, including dietary supplements, functional foods, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. We also offer OEM/ODM services for the convenience of supplement manufacturers. Visit our website for more information and inquiries.