Alanine

Alanine is a nonessential amino acid used by the body to build proteins.

Where is it found?

As with the other amino acids, excellent sources of alanine include meat and poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Some protein-rich plant foods also supply alanine.

Alanine has been used in connection with the following condition (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings	Health Concerns
	Benign prostatic hyperplasia (in combination with glycine and glutamic acid)
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Since alanine is synthesised in the body and is also provided by most foods that are sources of protein, deficiencies are unlikely to occur.¹

How much is usually taken?

Most people do not need to supplement with alanine; for those who do use this amino acid as a supplement, appropriate amounts should be determined with the consultation of a physician.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Alanine is free of side effects for the vast majority of people who take it; however, people with kidney or liver disease should not consume high intakes of amino acids without consulting a healthcare professional.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with alanine.

References

1. Zello GA, Wykes LF, Ball RO, et al. Recent advances in methods of assessing dietary amino acid requirements for adult humans. J Nutr 1995;125:2907–15.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.