Alanine


Introduction: 

Alanine is a nonessential amino acid used by the body to build proteins.

Sources: 

"As with the other amino acids, excellent sources of alanine include meat and poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Some protein-rich plant foods also supply alanine."

Treatment For: 

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (in combination with glycine and glutamic acid)

Symptoms of Deficiency: 

"Since alanine is synthesized in the body and is also provided by most foods that are sources of protein, deficiencies are unlikely to occur."

Recommended Dosages: 

"Most people do not need to supplement with alanine; for those who do use this amino acid as a supplement, appropriate amounts should be determined with the consultation of a physician."

Side Effects: 

"Alanine is free of side effects for the vast majority of people who take it; however, people with kidney or liver disease should not consume high intakes of amino acids without consulting a healthcare professional. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with alanine."