Alanine

What is Alanine?

Alanine is a nonessential amino acid used by the body to build proteins. Alanine, or L-alanine, is an amino acid that helps the body convert the simple sugar glucose into energy and eliminate excess toxins from the liver. Alanine has been shown to help protect cells from damage during intense aerobic activity.

Excellent sources of alanine include meat and poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Some protein-rich plant foods also supply alanine. Alanine is usually used in connection with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Alanine is crucial for preserving balanced levels of nitrogen and glucose in the body, which it does through a series of chemical actions called the alanine cycle. During the alanine cycle, any excess amino acids in cells or tissues are transferred to a receptor molecule called pyruvate, which is produced by the breakdown of glucose.

Alanine plays a key role in maintaining glucose levels and thus energy supplies in the body. Epstein-Barr virus and chronic fatigue syndrome have been linked to excessive alanine levels and low levels of tyrosine and phenylalanine.

Alanine may help regulate blood sugar as well. Research has found that for people with insulin-dependent diabetes, taking an oral dose of L-alanine effectively prevents night time hypoglycaemia.

Side Effects and Warnings of Alanine

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

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.

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