Feel more energetic and less fatigued with Tyrosine!
Tyrosine
Updated Mar. 02nd, 2026 | Read Time: 2 Minutes | What You Will Learn:
- Medicinal Uses For Tyrosine
- Neurotransmitter Effects
- Thyroid Support
- Tyrosine Supplement Varieties
- Nutritional Information
- Reader Comments (4)
Tyrosine is considered a non-essential amino acid, meaning that your body can make it from another amino acid, phenylalanine. That being said, it can also be found in a variety of foods, including wheat germ, oats, cheese and other dairy products, pork, turkey, chicken, and other wild game. Tyrosine or L-tyrosine can also be taken as a supplement. PKU is a condition in which individuals cannot make this amino acid from phenylalanine; in these cases, supplementation is necessary.
Medicinal Uses For Tyrosine
Neurotransmitter Effects
One of the more important medicinal uses of this amino acid comes from its ability to be converted to the following neurotransmitters: dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play an integral role in memory, attention and problem solving, depression and mood, as well as our stress response. Studies have shown that tyrosine, most likely due to its ability to increase the levels of the aforementioned neurotransmitters, may have the ability to fight fatigue and improve memory and mental functioning, particularly under the influence of environmental stressors, including sleep deprivation due to stress. It has also been shown to calm anxiety and help to improve mood and outlook.
Thyroid Support
Tyrosine is also involved in the synthesis of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. It is commonly recommended that individuals suffering from thyroid dysfunction supplement with this amino acid to increase metabolic activity and help to alleviate hypothyroid symptoms. As a substance that increases or up-regulates norepinephrine, this amino acid can also cause relatively quick and significant increases in energy, especially useful for individuals suffering from chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia.
Tyrosine Supplement Varieties
Tyrosine can be found in capsule form, either alone or in combination with other amino-acids, or supplements formulated to support thyroid, mood, energy and attention. This amino acid is considered safe at high doses. Some research has shown it has been associated with increased blood pressure in some individuals. If you have moderately high blood pressure or are at risk for high blood pressure, consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before supplementing with tyrosine and have your blood pressure checked regularly.
Thanks for the information about Tyrosine! Very informative.
Hello Natasha,
We are so glad you enjoyed our article on Tyrosine! Be sure to check out our articles on the other amino acids too.
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/supplements/amino-acid-complex/
Stay healthy & well!
I remember PKU from organic chemistry class! With PKU people cannot make tyrosine from phenylalanine and so supplementation is necessary. However, while tyrosine is not essential and thus can be made endogenously, you make it clear that people with PKU aren't the only ones who should be mindful of tyrosine intake: I recalled that, as you've stated, tyrosine involved in the synthesis of the thyroid hormone thyroxine and thus commonly recommended as a supplement for individuals suffering from thyroid dysfunction. And, yes, as you mention tyrosine is a precursor to dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are all important to the brain. Thank you for this nice little article on the importance of tyrosine :)
Hello Rachel,
Thank you for your comment, we are glad to hear you enjoyed our article on tyrosine and that it brought you back to your chemistry class days. It's fascinating how interconnected our body's processes can be.
You've highlighted an important point in the article about tyrosine supplementation not just being relevant for individuals with PKU, but also for those with thyroid dysfunction. Additionally, the impact of tyrosine on neurotransmitter production cannot be overlooked.
By ensuring an adequate intake of tyrosine, individuals may potentially support their mental well-being and manage stress levels more effectively. It's always beneficial to have a holistic understanding of how different nutrients can influence various bodily functions. Since you enjoyed this article so much, perhaps you'll enjoy this one on brain function and health, https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/brain-health-concentration/
Stay healthy & well!