BiochemistryNutrition
Phenylalanine Amino Acid
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid, which means it cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained through the diet. It’s a building block of proteins and plays several important roles in the body.
Phenylalanine is found in many protein-rich foods, including meat, fish, eggs, cheese, and milk. It’s also present in some artificial sweeteners, like aspartame.
In addition to being a component of proteins, phenylalanine is a precursor for several neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These neurotransmitters are essential for brain function, affecting mood, alertness, and memory.