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Tyrosine and B vitamins

Description

High dose tyrosine in combination with B vitamins is beneficial for endocrine support.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Thyroid or adrenal support - Depression - Alzheimer’s - Hayfever - Allergies

Clinical Applications/Research

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid that the body can produce from phenylalanine. Tyrosine is the precursor to epinephrine and norepinephrine, as well as dopamine and L-dopa. Due to this fact, tyrosine may be beneficial in adrenal function and depression. Preliminary studies indicate that tyrosine may be beneficial in Alzheimer’s patients. Tyrosine may also be helpful for thyroid function since thyroid hormones contain tyrosine as part of its structure.

B vitamins

The B vitamins help give us the energy to function. They are known as the "catalytic spark plugs" of the body; they catalyze many biochemical reactions because of their role as coenzymes. The B vitamins are water-soluble (easily eliminated from the body) and must be constantly replenished. Certain B vitamins can be made in the body by bacteria in the large intestine. A refined diet high in sugar, coffee, alcohol and refined flour can deplete the B vitamins, and long-term antibiotic therapy can reduce the population of beneficial bacteria that normally makes B vitamins in the large intestine. The B vitamins are also important for the synthesis of our brain neurotransmitters, which are chemical signals that our brain uses to carry out physiological functions. The B vitamins are needed, for instance, for the synthesis of the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Treatment with the B vitamins B-1, B-2, and B-6, in a 4-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study resulted in trends of, "greater improvement in scores on ratings of depression and cognitive function," and these findings, "offer preliminary support for further investigation of B-complex vitamin augmentation in the treatment of geriatric depression" (Bell IR et al. J Am Coll Nutr. 1992; 11(2):159-63). The B vitamins are also essential for the proper functioning of the endocrine glands, most notably the adrenals and the thyroid. The B vitamins are needed for healthy liver functioning, and the liver is one of the highest concentrated areas of B vitamins. The organ we know as the skin depends on B vitamins for its healthy appearance. The Bs are also essential for the health of the hair, eyes and mouth; a deficiency of the Bs can manifest in patchy scaly skin around the mouth area. They are also necessary for normal functioning of the nervous system, and essential for maintenance of muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Headaches may be experienced with high doses of tyrosine.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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