Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid.  It is particularly important in production of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the human body.  Neurotransmitters are chemicals which allow nerve cells to communicate with each other.  Phenylalanine is converted to the nonessential amino acid tyrosine, then to dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA).  Subsequently, it is converted to dopamine.  In this way, phenylalanine deficiency can alter mood.

The following foods are high in the amino acid phenylalanine.  The highest levels of phenylalanine are in the foods at the top of this list.  Foods at the bottom of the list contain considerable amounts of phenylalanine, though not as much as those at the top.

Soy beans

Emmenthal cheese

Mungo beans

Gouda cheese

Edam cheese

Cheddar cheese

Limburger cheese

White beans

Lentils

Peas

Lima beans

Sunflower seeds

Sesame seeds

Brie

Blue cheese

Wheat germ

Muenster cheese

Poppy seeds

Beef

Parmesan cheese

Chicken

Salmon

Gruyere cheese

Yogurt

Cow’s milk

Rainbow Grocery has the following products:  Phenylalanine, tyrosine, and all of the above non-flesh items.

Summary #963.  nutrientmedicine