Tyrosine is an amino acid used to create various hormones, to produce energy in the body and to create the skin pigment melatonin and dopamine used by the brain. The human body also manufactures coenzyme Q10 from amino acids, tyrosine and phenylalanine which is important for nerve health. Tyrosine also contributes towards boosting the brain and reducing stress and tension.
The thyroid gland uses iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to produce the hormones thyroxin and triiodothyronine. Both hormones function to regulate cellular metabolism. Metabolism refers to all the processes that make energy available to cells. As such, these hormones regulate the conversion of glycogen (stored glucose) to glucose. Triiodothyronine is involved in every physiological process in the body including growth and development, heart rate and temperature.
Tyrosine is converted to L-dopa by the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase. L-dopa is an amino acid and a hormone that is made naturally, through the biosynthesis of tyrosine, by a number of plants and animals including humans. It is a precursor to several important and powerful neurotransmitters which include dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and epinephrine (adrenaline). These are collectively known as catecholamines and they play a role in the stimulation and arousal systems in the brain.
Having sufficient levels of L-dopa can combat depression and anxiety while enhancing mood and improving the ability to concentrate and focus. It is especially important for those suffering from Parkinson’s disease.
Highest sources of tyrosine in milligrams per 100 grams
- Chlorella (dried) 2600 mg
- Spirulina (dried) 2584 mg
- Sesame seed flour 2100 mg
- Whelks 1518 mg
- Caviar (fish roe) 1121 mg
- Salmon 1100 mg
- Lamb’s liver 1090 mg
- Quail 1048 mg
- Chicken 1047 mg
- Calf’s liver 1044 mg
- Peanuts 1006 mg
- Beef (lean mince) 829 mg
- Shrimp and prawns 810 mg
- Pheasant 799 mg
- Mackerel (tinned) 783 mg
- Rabbit 776 mg
- Pumpkin seeds 770 mg
- Mussels 762 mg
- Sesame seeds 710 mg
- Sunflower seeds 666 mg
- Turkey 660 mg
- Soya beans 630 mg
- Crayfish 532 mg
- Pine nuts 509 mg
- Eggs 500 mg
- Squid 498 mg
- Almonds 452 mg
- Walnuts 406 mg
- Wheat 400 mg
- Rye 339 mg
- Black beans 250 mg
- Spinach 215 mg
- Goat’s milk 179 mg
- Mustard greens 119 mg
- Cows’ milk 152 mg
Related subjects
- A-Z of nutrients
- Brain and mental health disorders
- Gland disorders
- Heart disorders
- Hormone functions and health
- Nerve disorders
- Parkinson’s disease
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