Aspartic Acid – Uses, Benefits, Sources
Aspartic Acid is a non-essential amino acid in humans, Aspartic Acid has an overall negative charge and plays an important role in the synthesis of other amino acids and in the citric acid and urea cycles. Asparagine, arginine, lysine, methionine, isoleucine, and some nucleotides are synthesized from aspartic acid. Aspartic acid also serves as a neurotransmitter. (NCI04)
Aspartic acid can be found as L-aspartic acid or D-aspartic acid. The forms have the same chemical formula, but their molecular structures are mirror images of each other.
L-aspartic acid is produced in nature, including in your body, and used to build proteins. However, D-aspartic acid isn’t used to build proteins. Instead, it plays a role in making and releasing hormones in the body.
D-aspartic acid (D-AA) is one of two type of aspartic acid which increase the release of a hormone in the brain that will ultimately result in testosterone production. It is an amino acid regulator of testosterone synthesis and may act on a stimulatory receptor (NMDA). D-AA works in the central brain region to cause a release of hormones, such as luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and growth hormone. It may also build up in the testicles, where it alleviates a rate- limiting step of testosterone synthesis, which leads to a minor testosterone increase.
Function And Health Benefits Of Aspartic Acid
- Improves brain development
- Increases Hormones
- May increase Sperm Quality
- May boost testosterone levels
- A measure of female fertility
- Predicts aging
- Maybe a Nootropic
Food Sources Of Aspartic Acid
Food sources of aspartic acid include:
- Poultry and Meat
- Eggs and Dairy Products
Plant sources of aspartic acid include:
- Avocado
- Asparagus
- Molasses
Animal sources of aspartic acid include:
- Wild game
- Oysters
- Sausage meat
Deficiency Of Aspartic Acid
As the body is able to manufacture its own L-aspartic acid, deficiencies are rare. They usually only occur in people on a low protein diet, or people suffering from malnutrition or an eating disorder. There may also be periods of illness which can increase the body’s demand for aspartic acid.
When aspartic acid is deficient there is a deterioration of physical ability. Metabolism and other functions within the body decline. One of the common symptoms of low aspartic acid levels is chronic fatigue and reduced stamina.
Several studies have suggested that athletes or people suffering from chronic fatigue may benefit from increasing their intake of this amino acid. Not only can this help to elevate energy levels, it can also assist with the removal of excess ammonia as a byproduct of exercise.
High levels of ammonia and low levels of L-aspartic acid can lead to damage to the brain, liver, and nervous system. Some of the common symptoms include irritability, poor concentration, loss of energy, chronic headaches, and intolerance to high-protein foods.
Additionally there is an association between low levels of this amino acid and deficiencies in magnesium and calcium. This can contribute towards other health problems.
Side Effects Of Higher Intake Of Aspartic Acid
Having very high levels of testosterone can have some side effects. However, the growth and development of acne and hair are commonly known amongst those with very high levels of testosterone, along with elevated levels of aggression and a bigger appetite.
Older people, as the body makes fewer of its own antioxidants as it ages
People who drink too much alcohol and are exposed to tobacco smoke
People who have digestive problems
Or those who cannot absorb antioxidants properly
Conclusion
Many people are searching for a natural way to boost testosterone.
Some research has shown that 3 grams of D-aspartic acid per day can increase testosterone in young and middle-aged men.
However, other research in active men has failed to show any increases in testosterone, muscle mass or strength.
There is some evidence that D-aspartic acid may benefit sperm quantity and quality in men experiencing fertility problems.
While it may be safe to consume for up to 90 days, limited safety information is available.
Overall, more research is needed before D-aspartic acid can be strongly recommended for boosting testosterone.
