Phenylalanine

Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid, meaning your body cannot produce it on its own, so you must get it through your diet. It plays a vital role in producing proteins and important molecules like neurotransmitters, which help transmit signals in your brain. Found naturally in high-protein foods such as meat, dairy, nuts, and soy, phenylalanine supports overall health and mental function. For most people, it is safely metabolized, but individuals with a rare disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) must limit their intake to prevent health problems.