DLPA (DL-Phenylalanine) is an essential amino acid, meaning the body produces it naturally from the diet. All proteins in the body are made from amino acids, which is why amino acids are often referred to as the “building blocks” of proteins. Phenylalanine is one of the eight amino acids indispensable in the diet of man. It comes in two forms, called “D” (right-handed) and “L.” L (left-handed), Phenylalanine is also found in a mixture consisting of equal parts of the D and L forms, referred to as DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA).
DLPA is used as natural pain control by a variety of people, whether they are active and sedentary. It may help relieve pain from whiplash, rheumatoid arthritis, lower back pain, migraines, muscle cramps, and soreness, as well as postoperative pain. Moreover, it has been shown to be effective for boosting emotional enthusiasm for life and fighting depression.
Unlike many pharmaceutical drugs, this non-addictive amino acid actually appears to become more effective over time. The pain relief may not occur immediately and can take anywhere from four days to four weeks before relief is noticeable. However, as opposed to risking addiction or side effects with pharmaceutical pain-killers, most users report that DLPA is worth the wait.
A 1991 study discovered that the human brain responds to pain by producing and activating morphine-like hormones, called endorphins. These hormones constitute the active portion of the body’s built-in pain relief system. DLPA, when used in combination with morphine, allowed the dosage of morphine to be lowered and also lessened the undesirable effects of the drug, including dependence.
DLPA operates to protect this pain relief system from certain destructive enzymes. DLPA consequently allows the pain relief system to exert its powerful pain-relieving influence for an extended period of time. Researchers contend that this nontoxic substance has antidepressant actions and is beneficial when combined with other therapies, without adverse interactions.
DLPA is converted into the amino acid L-tyrosine in the body, through complex chemical reactions in the liver; L-tyrosine, in turn, can be converted into dopamine and norepinephrine. Through these conversions, DLPA may be able to help relieve stress and depression and help suppress appetite.
Athletes use DLPA for many of its benefits: to improve focus for a workout, to help relieve post-exercise soreness, and to suppress appetite when needed.
