A common amino acid found in protein rich foods and many brain health supplements may have an unexpected connection to longevity, according to new research.
Scientists reporting in the journal Aging-US examined whether two amino acids, phenylalanine and tyrosine, could influence how long people live (lifespan). Their findings suggest that higher levels of tyrosine in the blood are associated with a shorter life expectancy in men, raising new questions about the role this nutrient may play in aging.
The research was conducted by Jie V. Zhao, Yitang Sun, Junmeng Zhang, and Kaixiong Ye of the University of Hong Kong and the University of Georgia.
What Are Phenylalanine and Tyrosine?
Amino acids are often described as the building blocks of proteins. The body uses them to create and repair tissues, produce enzymes, and support countless biological functions.
