Evidence supporting the use of: DL-phenylalanine
For the health condition: Mood Swings
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
DL-phenylalanine (DLPA) is a mixture of two forms of the amino acid phenylalanine: the D-form and the L-form. The L-form is a natural amino acid involved in the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which are associated with mood regulation. The D-form is not used in protein synthesis but is thought to inhibit the breakdown of endorphins, potentially enhancing mood and reducing pain.
There is some scientific rationale for using DLPA to support mood, particularly in conditions related to low levels of certain neurotransmitters. Some small studies and preliminary research from the 1970s and 1980s suggest DLPA may have antidepressant effects and could help with mood swings, especially in the context of depression or mood disorders. The proposed mechanism involves increasing the availability of neurotransmitters and modulating the endorphin system.
However, robust clinical evidence is lacking. Most studies are small, dated, or methodologically limited. There is insufficient high-quality, large-scale research specifically addressing mood swings, as opposed to depression or chronic pain. Thus, while there is a plausible biochemical basis and limited scientific evidence, the overall support for DLPA in treating mood swings is weak, meriting a low (2/5) evidence rating.
Other ingredients used for Mood Swings
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
beta caryophyllene
bifidobacterium longum
black tea
chaste tree
turmeric
l-theanine
l-tryptophan
l-tyrosine
lactobacillus casei
lactobacillus reuteri
licorice root
lion's mane
lithium orotate
maca
magnesium
matcha
Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
pregnenolone
reishi mushroom
relora® (proprietary)
rhodiola
vitamin B12
vitamin B6
vitamin D
zinc
St. John's Wort
yerba mate
cocoa
Bifidobacteria
bacoside
Chocolate
Devil's Club
Rose
Other health conditions supported by DL-phenylalanine
Addictions (drugs)Addictions (general remedies for)
Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)
Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)
Depression
Mood Swings
Pain (general remedies for)