Tyrosine for Depression?

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Tyrosine for Depression? JoAnn Guest Jul 15, 2003 14:49 PDT

Today's Question

Recently a friend who used to take Saint-John's-wort found even greater

relief from depression with the amino acid tyrosine. Can you tell me

what you know about tyrosine for depression?

 

-- Anonymous

 

Today's Answer

(Published 03/11/1999)

Tyrosine (actually L-tyrosine) is a precursor of the neurotransmitters

norepinephrine and dopamine. Taking tyrosine on an empty stomach may

cause an increase in norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which can

lead to increased energy, alertness and improved moods, thus relieving

depression. Unlike Saint-John's-wort, which can take two months to work,

and prescription antidepressants, which probably won't kick in for about

six weeks, tyrosine works very quickly. However, it can raise blood

pressure in some people, so therefore must be used cautiously by people

with hypertension.

Another amino acid, phenylalanine, is likewise a precursor of

norepinephrine and dopamine that can be used to treat depression (with

the same caution about its effects on blood pressure). In the past I've

recommended trying a mixture of D-phenylalanine and L-phenylalanine for

depression in a combination, known as DLPA. The mixture is less likely

to raise blood pressure than the straight L-form and can be used as part

of a broader regimen to treat depression. The first thing in the morning

(about an hour before breakfast) take 1,500 milligrams of DLPA, 100

milligrams of vitamin B-6, 500 milligrams of vitamin C plus a piece of

fruit or small glass of juice. Make sure you're not using any

over-the-counter or prescription drugs that can contribute to

depression. These include all antihistamines, tranquilizers, sleeping

pills and narcotics. If DLPA doesn't help, try L-tyrosine in the same

way.

 

On the whole, I suggest following a low-protein, higher carbohydrate

diet to help break out of depression. Be especially careful about

alcohol and any recreational drugs including cocaine, amphetamines,

" downers, " narcotics and marijuana. Although they may provide a

temporary sense of relief, if used regularly, they're likely to increase

depression to dangerous levels. Addiction to coffee and others forms of

caffeine can also interfere with normal moods and make depression worse.

Be sure to get regular, physical exercise -- 45 minutes of aerobic

activity most days -- itself an antidepressant.

http://www.drweil.com

 

 

 

 

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