Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid used in the body to create several neurotransmitters that are necessary for use in the brain.

The three neurotransmitters this amino acid produces are dopamine, noradrenalin and adrenaline.

Within the body, L-Tryosine is formed from phenylalanine. It is also possible to obtain amounts of L-Tyrosine from certain foods such as seafood, poultry, nuts, seeds, dairy products, bananas, avocados and lima beans.

There are several benefits of L-Tyrosine, as the brain and body cannot function properly without it. Specifically, it is impossible for the brain to pay attention without sufficient levels of this amino acid. Deficiencies have been proven to result in several health issues.

Several health conditions have shown to be related to low levels of L-Tyrosine which results in a deficiency of neurotransmitters. For example, it is believed that attention deficit disorder is caused by a deficiency in dopamine and norarenaline; which is the result of a L-Tyrosine deficiency.

Other benefits of L-Tyrosine include assistance with headaches, depression, narcolepsy and chronic fatigue syndrome. Certain individuals may be more at risk for developing L-Tyrosine deficiencies than others.

Persons who suffer from the disease known as Phenylketonuria, commonly called PKU, will be more at risk for a deficiency in L-Tyrosine because the disease prevents the body from being able to convert phenylalanine into L-Tyrosine.

Individuals who take anti-depressants should be extremely cautious about taking L-Tyrosine supplements or adding extra foods known to contain this amino acid into their diet. Due to the fact that L-Tyrosine is basically a stimulant persons who suffer from heart conditions, thyroid problems, have MS or cancer should also be extremely cautious about taking supplements containing this amino acid.

Known side effects include anxiety, stomach problems and irritation.

L-Tyrosine supplements come in powder form and tablets. Both supplements should be taken with plenty of water so the it is able to be absorbed well by the body.

Individuals who eat a well balanced diet may not need additional L-Tyrosine supplements. Research has shown that there are no additional benefits of L-Tyrosine in persons who do not have a deficiency