Evidence supporting the use of: Glutamic acid
For the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters

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Synopsis

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

Glutamic acid is an amino acid that serves as a key excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It is the precursor to glutamate, the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, which plays a crucial role in synaptic transmission, plasticity, and overall brain function. Scientific research has established the fundamental role of glutamate in cognition, memory, and learning. However, dietary supplementation with glutamic acid is not typically used to directly support neurotransmitter function, since the blood-brain barrier tightly regulates the entry of glutamate and glutamic acid into the brain. Most glutamate used as a neurotransmitter is synthesized locally within the brain from glucose and other amino acids, and not from dietary sources. While some supplements and nootropic products include glutamic acid with the intention of supporting neurotransmitter health, there is limited direct scientific evidence that oral glutamic acid supplementation significantly impacts neurotransmitter levels or brain function in healthy individuals. In summary, while there is strong scientific validation for the role of glutamic acid (glutamate) in neurotransmission, evidence supporting the use of supplemental glutamic acid to support the Specific Neurotransmitters body system is modest.

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