Evidence supporting the use of: DL-phenylalanine
For the health condition: Mood Swings

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

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.

More about DL-phenylalanine
More about Mood Swings

Products containing DL-phenylalanine

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.