Tyrosine is a popular supplement you may have heard about. But what exactly is this, what is it it good for and is it worth your money? Let’s find out
What is tyrosine
Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid metabolized by your body and produces dopamine and neropinephrine (known as catecholamines).
In stressful conditions - these compounds are depleted and tyrosine supplementation can help maintain and improve performance.
It’s very common in weight loss and pre-workouts. It’s also a prominent component in our Impossible Energy product.
Tyrosine vs. L-tyrosine
L-tyrosine is simply one form of tyrosine. You may see the supplement sold as tyrosine or l-tyrosine in stores.
Physically - they are identical compounds but have some different biological differences. Tyrosine can often taste sweet while l-tyrosine may have little to no taste.
However, for all intents and purposes tyrosine and l-tyrosine act in similar manners.
Benefits of Tyrosine
Tyrosine is primarily used to replenish dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. This can help in high stress situations where you need to be on the top of your game.
In high stress situations, both of these compounds are depleted and this can lead to scattered brain, poor critical thinking and low energy or mood.
Dopamine is a precursor to focus as well, so through that mechanism of action - it can improve focus.
Side Effects of Tyrosine
Tyrosine is widely considered safe in almost all dosages. There - however - are a few areas - where you should consult your doctor.
Larger dosages may cause digestive discomfort. If you’d like to dose at higher levels consider breaking your dosages up throughout the day.
Individuals using Levodopa (a Parkinson’s medication) should be careful about supplementing with l-tyrosine as they both compete for absorption in the same areas.
Individuals with thyroid concerns may consider asking their doctor about tyrosine as it may elevate thyroid levels when you’re trying to stabilize them.
Also - l-tyrosine seems to perform the best when your dopamine and neroperneophrine is depleted - if you’re not stressed - you might not get the full benefits out of it.
L-Tyrosine Dosages
Typically l-tyrosine is dosed in 500-200mg quantities around 60 minutes before exercise.
Higher dosages can see performance improvements, but may require spacing throughout the day to avoid digestion issues.
"How L-tyrosine Changed My Life”
L-tyrosine is often used to talk about as a treatment for depression. While this is a popular consideration online, the research does not seem to mete out the effects here. However, it should help improve memory, focus and dopamine and that may help inhibit some of the symptoms of depression in some people.
Tyrosine Structure
Tyrosine as a compound is shown below.
Where to Buy Tyrosine
Tyrosine is a primary ingredient in the Impossible Energy sleep drink mix you can buy here.
If you’d like to buy tyrosine on it’s own, you can get that here.
FAQs on Tyrosine
How much tyrosine per day should I take?
You can start by taking 500-2000mg of tyrosine/day.
What is tyrosine good for?
Tyrosine has been shown to be beneficial for Stress, mental acuity, and dopamine production.
When to take tyrosine?
Take tyrosine 30-60 minutes before a strenuous / stressful activity.
Resources & Citations on Tyrosine