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Tyrosine: its properties and application in sports

Author: Slauta Alexander - sports nutrition specialist and gym trainer.
2014-12-30

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In today's modern living conditions, it is becoming increasingly difficult for people who engage in sports and lead an active lifestyle to replenish the necessary balance of nutrients after workouts. This is due to several reasons: a heavy workload, deteriorating food quality, insufficient rest time, etc.

It is clear that for an athlete who visits the gym, sports nutrition should become an integral part of their diet. It makes the process of physical activity and the recovery process more effective and accessible.

The value of amino acids for the body is of global importance. They are the foundation of all physiological processes that occur at the cellular level. We will consider the amino acid L-Tyrosine and explore its necessity for the body and its application in sports.

Description and Functions

L-Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid. It is synthesized in the human body from phenylalanine. The reverse synthesis is not possible. Due to its high value for humans, this substance can conditionally be classified as an essential amino acid.

1. L-Tyrosine is necessary for the synthesis of hormones:

  • catecholamines,
  • neurotransmitters,
  • dopamine,
  • dihydroxyphenylalanine,
  • norepinephrine,
  • epinephrine,
  • thyroxine,
  • triiodothyronine.

These hormones are produced by the adrenal glands and thyroid gland. Insufficient concentration of neurotransmitters can lead to some psychological and physiological disorders (memory impairments and depression). L-Tyrosine metabolizes the pigment melanin, which is found in hair and skin, through various enzymes.

2. Accelerates metabolic processes

L-Tyrosine can affect tissues and cells not only directly but also indirectly by influencing the function of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. This significantly speeds up metabolism and normalizes physical state, thereby preserving muscles from destruction.

3. Increases concentration

L-Tyrosine is referred to as the "anti-stress amino acid." According to various medical studies, the longer a person is under stress, the more they need additional intake of L-Tyrosine. Many athletes report increased motivation and improved focus when taking this amino acid.

Application in Sports

For those leading an active lifestyle and bodybuilding enthusiasts, L-Tyrosine is essential as a means to enhance protein synthesis and to preserve muscle mass under heavy physical loads, as well as during drying periods. Since during a low-carbohydrate diet, a person often has low blood glucose levels, the properties of L-Tyrosine to improve mood and attention will be very beneficial.

If we believe the advertising claims of manufacturers, L-Tyrosine can enhance thermogenesis and lipolysis. It also reduces appetite. This makes it quite useful for weight loss. Thus, it turns out that tyrosine contributes to weight loss from three angles.

Dosages

Adults can use L-Tyrosine without special concerns. Manufacturers usually recommend taking one dose (500 mg) a day. Cases of using 1000-1500 mg per day are not uncommon. However, one should not exceed this dosage. The duration of intake is usually three months.

Sports Nutrition with L-Tyrosine

Personal Fitness Training by the Author of This Article:

  • Development of online training and nutrition programs;
  • Weight loss and correction;
  • Muscle mass gain;
  • Physical rehabilitation for various conditions (including back issues);
  • Rehabilitation after injuries;
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