Evidence supporting the use of: DL-phenylalanine
For the health condition: Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)

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Synopsis

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

DL-phenylalanine (DLPA) has been explored for its potential to support addiction recovery, including addictions to sugar and refined carbohydrates, based on its biochemical role as a precursor to neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and endorphins. The rationale is that addictive behaviors, including compulsive carbohydrate consumption, may be associated with reduced dopamine or endorphin activity, and that DLPA supplementation could help replenish these neurotransmitters, thereby reducing cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

Some small clinical studies and animal research have suggested that phenylalanine supplementation may modulate mood and pain perception, but robust clinical trials specifically investigating DLPA for sugar or refined carbohydrate addiction are lacking. A few open-label and pilot studies from the 1980s and 1990s explored DLPA and related amino acids for various substance use disorders (notably alcohol and opiates), with mixed or inconclusive results. Evidence directly addressing DLPA and carbohydrate or sugar addiction is minimal and mostly theoretical, often extrapolated from its effects on neurotransmitter synthesis.

Overall, while the mechanism is plausible and there is limited, preliminary scientific interest, high-quality evidence supporting DLPA’s effectiveness for sugar or refined carbohydrate addiction is lacking. Thus, scientific support exists in theory and in early-stage research, but the quality and quantity of evidence are low (rated 2 out of 5).

More about DL-phenylalanine
More about Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)

Products containing DL-phenylalanine

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