Phenylalanine and Tryptophan
We here at weight-loss-tips.net are going to give a brief explanation of what amino acids do, what they can do for you in supplement form, and which ones can help you lose weight. We will also give a warning about what to look for and what works.
Phenylalanine and tryptophan are essential amino acids derived from high protein meats, and in the case of phenylalanine, interestingly enough aspartame, the artificial sweetener. It has powerful effects on the central nervous system, and has been shown in studies to improve mood, relieve depression and anxiety, and alleviating pain.
Perhaps that is why the dieting world is so excited about this “appetite suppressant”. Phenylalanine suppresses the appetite by increasing the production of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. Amphetamines, work in much the same way, but, unlike amphetamines, phenylalanine does not cause a depressive crash when it is stopped. The body requires about 1 gram a day, and effective supplemental doses range from 75-200 mg/day.
Studies are limited, and questionable. But there has been links between tryptophan and lowered caloric intake. Tryptophan supplements tend to diminish the desire for carbohydrates say some leading dieticians. The idea being that since most dieters crave sweets this essential amino acid may save you the trouble of high calorie foods.
An additional benefit of both tryptophan and phenylalanine is their ability to cause the release of cholecystokinin (CCK) which has been shown to inhibit appetite in animals. CCK is a hormone produced and released in the small intestine after eating which tells the brain it is full and to stop eating. In a Nobel Prize winning study Rosalyn Yalow found that obese mice have one third the level of CCK in their cerebral cortex as obese mice, perhaps explaining the latter’s poor eating habits.
Both of these amino acids can be bought in supplement form. But as mentioned before, much like taking a vitamin C tablet with 1600% of the vitamin C that you need, overdosing on amino acids will exit your body the same way, not multiply your weight loss by 4 times as much. Plus, overdosing on amino acids can be dangerous, sometimes the body won’t be able to break down the amino acid, and sometimes it will inhibit the absorption of important nutrients. Always consult with a doctor before playing with your body’s metabolism in this manner. Also, be aware that these products do more for muscle growth then fat loss and burning. And make sure to not overpay.