DL-Phenylalanine & Your Brain

If you are reading this, you are most likely one of the many looking for a quality nootropic to support your cognitive functions. Given the stress and overwhelm of modern life, it's an understandable need. We all have so much to accomplish on a daily basis, but limited brain energy with which to do it.

And while many look for all sorts of 'cutting edge' nootropics packed with 'newly discovered miracle extracts' that promise outstanding results in the shortest time; they often overlook one of the most essential nutrients for optimal cognitive health: DLPA (or DL-Phenylalanine), a very bioavailable form of Phenylalanine.*

Here's why you shouldn't skip DLPA:

First, a glance at the basics.

DL-Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid. In this context, 'essential' doesn't mean 'important' (though it certainly is!). It means your body can't produce it on its own. Every bit of it must come from external sources, be it food or nootropics.

Now, most of those who have heard of DLPA know it for its involvement in protein synthesis and a myriad of metabolic processes.¹ But its role doesn't end there.

DL-Phenylalanine is a precursor. A precursor to what, you ask? Neurotransmitters.² Specifically, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These aren't just fancy terms thrown around in a biology class. They're the very chemicals that help regulate mood, focus, and overall brain function.*

Without DL-Phenylalanine, the production of these neurotransmitters can be hampered, leading to a cascade of potential brain health issues.*

Sounds good, but where's the evidence?

Restlessness, which is typically characterized by lack of attention and hyperactivity, is reported to be prevalent among approximately 7 million young adults in the United States, as well as over 366 million adults globally, according to recent statistics.*^3,4

Studies show that DL-Phenylalanine may help those struggling with inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and forgetfulness in daily activities or who are easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.*

By supporting the production of crucial neurotransmitters, DLPA can potentially sharpen focus and mitigate some attention challenges.*

→ As a matter of fact, the amount of evidence backing this up is truly impressive.

For instance, one analysis published in the Journal of Molecular Sciences highlights DLPA's role in neurotransmitter synthesis.⁵ The study emphasized how acute Phenylalanine and Tyrosine depletion have been linked to temporarily reduced dopamine synthesis and effects on attention, mood, and cognitive abilities.*

But what if there's a shortage, a deficiency?

When starved of this essential amino acid, your head-brain (typically known as your 1st Brain) may not function optimally. Signs of deficiency range from fatigue and confusion to a more severe decline in cognitive abilities.*

So, how much DLPA do you need? Well, that's a bit tricky. It will likely depend on a number of factors like age, weight, and overall health.

Now, there are a couple ways really to get the DLPA your 1st Brain needs. First, whole foods. A proper diet is the prime source of nutrients, including essential amino acids.

However, factors like dietary restrictions (especially for vegans and vegetarians), health challenges (i.e., malabsorption issues), or lifestyle choices can limit intake from natural sources.

This is where quality nootropics come into play. The HCF® A20® advanced nootropic could be a potential solution and ensure that even if dietary intake falls short, your brain network can still get its nutrients, including Phenylalanine.