DL Phenylalanine is two forms of phenylalanine : L-phenylalanine and D-phenylalanine. They’re nearly identical but have a slightly different molecular structure.
Your body is unable to produce enough L-phenylalanine on its own, so it’s considered an essential amino acid that must be obtained through your diet. The L-form is found in foods and used to produce proteins in your body, while the D-form can be synthesized for.
You need phenylalanine and other amino acids to make proteins.
Many important proteins are found in your brain, blood, muscles, internal organs and virtually everywhere else in your body.
What’s more, phenylalanine is crucial for the production of other molecules, including Tyrosine - used to make new proteins, Epinephrine and norepinephrine - vital for your body’s coping response when under stress, and Dopamine - involved in feelings of pleasure in your brain, as well as forming memories and learning skills.
