s’ disease.
Improvements to Neurotransmission Function
PEA is a stimulant to the central nervous system and in that function, works to improve the functions of neurotransmitters. It does this with its inherent capabilities to modulate neurons and the interacting brain chemicals. Within this function, phenylethylamine not only enhances nerve health, but it also protects the neurons.
Phenylalanine as the “Safe” Amphetamine
It has similar effects and characteristics of amphetamines without the dangerous side effects. In fact, studies suggest that it helps with depression in some patients. Moreover, people who use phenylalanine report increases in energy levels, feelings of elation, and a greater sense of alertness.
Exercise as Nature’s Antidepressant
“Runner’s High” is a term that describes the feeling of elation that exercise gives people. In fact, exercise proves to be an excellent way to lessen symptoms of mild depression. Not surprisingly, one study with healthy young men show increases in PEA by 77% within 24 hours after exercise.
The study also shows, however, that the level of phenylalanine increase varies from person to person. Never-the-less, the results show an overall positive effect from exercise to lower the symptoms of depression.
Phenylethylamine Precautionary Side Effects
Taking phenylethylamine supplements is safe when taking appropriate doses of 100 – 500mg. You may avoid the side effects by taking a lower dose if you experience constipation, headaches, or nausea. However, other, more serious side effects may also include the following symptoms.
Due to fluctuations in dopamine levels and increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and adrenaline, taking a phenylethylamine supplement may increase anxiety in some people.
Taking a stimulant of any kind causes dehydration in the human body. Therefore, it’s important to consume extra water if you take this supplement.
Heart Rate Increases
Phenylethylamine has similar effects of amphetamines or caffeine, so taking this supplement in large doses may cause a dangerous increase in heart rate.
Sleeplessness or Insomnia
The results of taking phenylethylamine include stimulating the brain for greater energy and focus. Therefore, it is not advisable to take this supplement close to bedtime.
Pregnant and Lactating Women
There is not enough current research to know the safety of this supplement for pregnant and lactating women. Therefore, it is not advisable for pregnant or lactating women to take this supplement.
Phenylethylamine and Surgery
Because phenylethylamine affects the central nervous system, it’s incredibly important to stop taking phenylethylamine supplements a full two weeks before going into surgery.
Schizophrenia & Bipolar Disorders
Phenylethylamine supplements can shift a bipolar patient from depression to mania. The supplement can also increase hallucinations and delusions in schizophrenia patients. Therefore, taking this supplement is not advisable for patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorders.
PKU is a rare disorder wherein phenylalanine builds up in the body. The cause is a defective gene that does not properly produce the enzyme necessary to break down phenylalanine. People with this disorder must be cautious their entire life about consuming foods with high levels of phenylalanine and must never take phenylethylamine or phenylalanine supplements.
This supplement is available in powder, salt, and tablet or capsule form. If you can find a slow-release formula – all the better.
Please take precautions and read your labels carefully. In the case of phenylethylamine and phenylalanine, it is important to avoid confusing them when shopping for your supplements. Also, take this same precaution when researching this topic – it’s easy to get confused. Remember that the body synthesizes (derives) phenylethylamine from phenylalanine. So, although they are part of the same system, they are distinctly different when purchasing in supplemental form.
The recommended dose is 100 to 500mg. Start with the lowest dose and gradually increase but do not exceed 500mg.