Posted by Caroline Collard on May.02, 2009

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Amino acids are very important in the correct functioning of the brain. A generalized deficiency in them can lead to symptoms such as apathy, concentration difficulties, loss of interest, insomnia, mood swings, anxiety, depression, self mutilation and aggression. Amino acids are considered to be the building blocks of protein and are essential for neurotransmitter production which is a requirement for an effective nervous system. A poor diet can lead to a deficiency of amino acids, but also there can be a genetic predisposition to amino acid deficiency.

Eight amino acids are considered essential: phenylalanine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, isoleucine, methionine, leucine and lysine. All other amino acids can be made from these. However, sometimes there are metabolic problems which means that the other amino acids are not produced.

In order to have the correct amount of amino acids a good intake of protein is necessary. Meat is the main individual item that contains the full balance of amino acids. However even on a vegan (meat and dairy free) diet, it is possible to get the full range by ensuring that the diet contains at least two of the following food groups: nuts and seeds, grains, pulses. Supplementation is also possible, generally a supplement containing the whole range is ideal, but sometimes it is considered better to supplement just individual ones. The better quality adult supplements contain amino acids, but usually the children’s supplements do not, so would have to be taken separately. They can be obtained in powder and liquid form as well as capsules. Please check with a doctor or a qualified nutritional therapist before taking supplements.

Individual Amino Acids

Research on DMG (dimethylglycine), suggests that this amino acid can help epilepsy and autism and it is popularly used by veterinarians for treating seizures in cats and dogs. It helps blood circulation to the brain and this leads to improved brain and nerve function. Research in 1965 showed that DMG led to improvements in the speech of 12 out of 15 children with severe learning difficulties who had been unable to communicate before the treatment.

Taurine is an amino acid sometimes supplemented in cases of epilepsy and is also known to be linked to the female hormones. According to TC Birdsall in his article Therapeutic Applications of Taurine “Clinically, taurine has been used with success in the treatment of a wide variety of varying conditions, including: cardiovascular diseases, hypercholesterolemia, epilepsy and other seizure disorders, macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, hepatic disorders, alcoholism and cystic fibrosis.” There have also been claims that it can increase IQ levels in Down Syndrome.

Other amino acids of interest are:

• L-carnosine, which protects against aging, has neurotransmitter properties and may improve language and behaviour in children on the autistic spectrum.
• Phenylalanine, which may brighten mood, stimulate energy and improve memory. A deficiency can lead to eczema and slow intellectual progress.
• Glutamine, which may help depression, sugar cravings, IQ levels, epilepsy, schizophrenia and senility. Glutamic acid, which is a form of glutamine is sometimes used to treat autism and behavioral problems.
• Methionine, which may help the accumulation of heavy metals in the brain.
• GABA, which is used with ADD, ADHD, stress, anxiety and depression. It also may help with manic behavior, schizophrenia, epilepsy and high blood pressure.
• Glycine, which may help sugar cravings calm down aggression.
• Tryptophan, which raises serotonin levels and balances the brain.
• Lysine is related to the absorption of calcium and may help tiredness, concentration and irritability. It is important for the growth and development of children. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, dizziness, anaemia, visual disorders and nausea.
• Valine, which may help muscle coordination and calm down emotions.
• Leucine and isoleucine, which stimulate the upper brain and therefore increase alertness.
• Tyrosine, which may help depression, memory, mental alertness and various glandular functions. It is also sometimes used to treat hayfever.

Obviously the functioning of amino acids is a complex subject which needs to be well researched if you consider it relevant to your case. For those of you who would like to know more I recommend Leon Chaitow’s Thorson’s Guide to Amino Acids.

This is not intended to constitute medical advice. Please contact your medical professional if you are concerned about health issues or wish to take supplements.

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