You are here: Q&A->
Page 21->DPLA (DP-phenylalanine) to boost mood
DPLA (DP-phenylalanine) to boost mood
I recently discovered an alternative “pick-me-up” remedy to St John’s Wort. This one combines vitamin B6 with vitamin C and something called DPLA (DP-phenylalanine) all of which are available from Holland & Barrett. Can you explain how DPLA works and the significance of combining it with vitamins B6 and C?
A deficiency in vitamin B6 has long been linked with depression and has been found in 20% of severe cases which have been admitted to hospital for treatment. Depression is often a consequence of stress and vitamin C is one of the most potent stress-busting nutrients.
In his book Mood Foods (Ulysses Press) the American psychonutritionist, Dr William Vayda describes phenylalanine as the best natural antidepressant of our time. It is an amino acid and a precursor of the neurotransmitter (brain chemical) norepinephrine which has been shown to boost mood, enhance memory and slow the rate of breakdown of the body’s own natural opiates, including endorphins.
Phenylalanine, which is found in chocolate and cheese, is the also the chemical the brain makes more of when you fall in love. It is sold in supplement form as DL-phenylalanine (DLPA) and may take up to a fortnight to kick in and restore levels of endorphins back to normal. Once working, though, you should only need to take it for a week in every month.