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What is L-Alanine?

Alanine, or L-alanine, is an amino acid that makes it possible for the body to convert the simple sugar glucose into energy and dispose toxins from the liver.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and key to building strong, healthy muscles.

Alanine aids the body during intense aerobic activity, when muscle protein is used to help produce energy. It helps regulate and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Alanine is a nonessential amino acid, as it is synthesized in the body in muscle tissue from branched chain amino acids such as valine, leucine, and isoleucine.

Since it is manufactured from other amino acids in the liver, it does not have to be obtained directly through the diet. A healthy body is able to manufacture its own supply. Alanine can also be manufactured in the body from pyruvate.

Alanine helps preserve balanced levels of nitrogen and glucose in the body. Through a series of chemical actions called the alanine cycle, any excess amino acids (proteins) in cells or tissues are transferred to a receptor molecule called pyruvate, which is made by the breakdown of glucose.

The pyruvate is then converted to alanine and transported to the liver. The liver takes nitrogen from alanine and changes some of it back into pyruvate, which can then be used to produce more glucose. This cycle - glucose breaking down to pyruvate then alanine then pyruvate then glucose again - is critical for the body's energy needs.

Alanine is used by the body to draw upon blood sugar as an energy source. It also ensures that a steady supply of pyruvate is bioavailable to promote the synthesis of glucose and amino acids in the body.

Alanine is found in a wide selection of dietary sources, particularly meats. Other excellent food sources of alanine include beans, poultry, nuts, dairy products, seafood, seeds, soy, whey, brewer's yeast, brown rice bran, caseinate, corn, dairy products, eggs, fish, gelatin, legumes and whole grains. Protein-rich plant foods like avocado can provide alanine as well.

Health Benefits of L-Alanine

Alanine helps provide energy for muscle tissue, the brain and central nervous system. It provides support for the immune system and for the metabolism of sugars and organic acids. Because of alanine's role in producing energy, it may prove beneficial for bodybuilders and other athletes.

Alanine supports the metabolism of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that the body uses for energy. During strenuous exercise L-alanine is made available to muscle tissues during physical exertion and training. This makes L-Alanine an excellent addition to many pre-workout energy drinks and shakes. It serves as fuel for the muscles as performance athletes, especially powerlifters and bodybuilders, work to increase power, strength and endurance.

Alanine also helps protect against the buildup of toxic substances released in the muscle cells when muscle protein is broken down to quickly meet energy needs, which is what happens with aerobic exercise.

Alanine is well supplied in most diets and can be synthesized from pyruvic acid (formed in the breakdown of carbohydrates). Those on a very low protein diet may want to consider a supplement.

Common Effects of L-Alanine

During exercise the muscles release alanine into the bloodstream at a rate directly proportional to the intensity of the exertion. The alanine then evolves into glucose and is released into the blood plasma. Alanine may help keep blood sugar levels stable during exercise. Low levels of blood sugar have been linked with fatigue during exertion, which is why many experts think alanine supplements might enable athletes to exercise for longer periods of time at competitive intensities.

Purity and Concentration of L-Alanine

This pharmaceutical-grade L-alanine contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents.

Potential Side Effects of L-Alanine

No side effects have been reported at suggested serving sizes. Individuals suffering from diabetes, prostatitis or hypertension should consult a qualified medical practitioner prior to the use of supplemental L-alanine. High levels of alanine, along with low levels of tyrosine and phenylalanine, have been associated with the Epstein-Barr virus and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Keep in mind that although alanine by itself does not have any side effects, taking any one amino acid could upset the balance of nitrogen in the body and make it harder for the liver and kidneys to eliminate waste. As such, people with liver or kidney disease should not consume high amounts of amino acids without consulting a health care professional first.

Suggested Use of L-Alanine

The suggested serving size for L-alanine is 2000 milligrams (2 grams) taken 30 minutes before a workout. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for L-Alanine here. A serving size of 1/2 teaspoon is about 2 grams.

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility of L-Alanine

This product dissolves quickly in water and has a pleasantly sweet taste. L-Alanine makes an excellent addition to your pre-workout or energy drink or protein shake.

How should I store it?

You will receive a resealable bag of this powder. Store in a cool, dry area protected from light. Reseal after each use.

References & Further Research

Effects of exercise on protein and amino acid metabolism

Amino acid and protein metabolism during exercise and recovery

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.