Evidence supporting the use of: Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
For the body system: Sympathetic Nervous System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Acetyl-L-Tyrosine is an acetylated form of the amino acid L-tyrosine, which is a precursor to catecholamines such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These neurotransmitters are central to the function of the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS), which is responsible for the "fight-or-flight" response. The rationale for using Acetyl-L-Tyrosine to support the SNS is based on its potential to increase the availability of L-tyrosine in the brain, thereby supporting the synthesis of catecholamines, especially under conditions of stress or catecholamine depletion.

Several studies have shown that supplementation with L-tyrosine (and to a lesser extent, Acetyl-L-Tyrosine) can help maintain cognitive performance and mood during acute stress, fatigue, or sleep deprivation, likely by mitigating depletion of neurotransmitters involved in SNS activity. For instance, research in military and sleep-deprived populations suggests some benefit in stressful situations. However, direct evidence specifically linking Acetyl-L-Tyrosine supplementation to improved SNS function in healthy individuals is limited, and most studies use L-tyrosine rather than the acetylated form. There is also insufficient evidence to support chronic use for SNS support in the absence of acute stressors.

Overall, the use of Acetyl-L-Tyrosine for SNS support has some scientific rationale, but the evidence is not robust or specific to this form of tyrosine, and more research is needed.

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