Alanine

The amino acid alanine is necessary for the biochemical metabolism of glucose in the body, this sugar is a simple carbohydrate used by the body for all its energy requirements. The presence of excessive alanine levels and low levels of tyrosine and phenylalanine in the body has been connected to the presence of Epstein-Barr virus infection and chronic fatigue symptoms in the human body. Beta-alanine which is one form of the amino acid alanine is a constituent of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and the important compound called coenzyme A, which is a very vital catalyst in the human body and required for many biochemical metabolic pathways.

Many proteins contain alanine as a component - alanine is non-essential in the diet and synthesized in the human body itself. There is some evidence that the amino acid alanine may support the health of the prostrate gland as it is present in prostate fluid - the role of alanine in the prostrate gland is being investigated. A study that has been independently confirmed involved forty five men who suffered from benign prostatic hyperplasia as test subjects, it was found during the course of the study that using 780 mg of alanine daily for two weeks and following it with dosage of 390 mg for the next two and a half months, combined with equal amounts of the amino acids glycine and glutamic acid, could lead to a significant reduction in the physical symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia in the test subjects.

Good dietary sources for alanine include all kinds of meat and poultry, all types of fish, eggs, and all dairy products - these foods are good sources for all amino acids. Alanine is also found in good amounts in some protein rich plant products.

Protein deficient diets will normally not lead to deficiency in alanine, as this amino acid is synthesized in the human body. It is produced in the body itself and most protein food sources contain it in abundance.

Uses

Some non protein functions of the amino acid alanine seems to be its ability to improve the functioning of the immune system in humans. Alanine is also known to alleviate hypoglycemia and is important in the metabolism of glucose, the carbohydrate source for all energy needs in the human body.

Usual dosage

Alanine supplements are not required by the majority of people. A nutritionally oriented and experienced physician may be consulted by those who do need this amino acid as a supplement for any reason.

Side effects and cautions

Taking alanine does not produce any side effects in most people who do use such supplements for any reason. Alanine supplements must only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional by individuals affected by kidney or liver disease - this is true for all the other amino acids as well.