Is Phenylalanine in Soda Harmful?
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid found in many foods and some sodas. While it's generally safe for most people, those with a rare genetic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid it. High levels of phenylalanine can be harmful to those with PKU as their bodies can't break it down.
Phenylalanine: What is it?
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid, meaning the body cannot produce it and must be obtained through diet. It plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes and is a building block for proteins [1]. Phenylalanine is also a precursor for numerous plant compounds vital for plant reproduction, growth, development, and defence against different types of stresses [2].
Benefits of Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine has several uses in the human body and various industries. In the body, it is transformed into tyrosine, which is then converted into catecholamine neurotransmitters, playing a vital role in brain function [3].
In the industrial sector, phenylalanine is used as a building block of artificial sweeteners [4]. It's also used in producing various low-molecular-weight gelators, which have applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, oil spill recovery, removal of dyes, extraction of heavy metals or pollutants, and detection of explosives [5].
In plants, phenylalanine is a source of a wide range of specialised metabolites, named phenylpropanoids, that contribute to the adjustment of plants to changing developmental and environmental conditions [6].
Risks and Side effects of Phenylalanine
For people with a rare genetic disease called phenylketonuria (PKU), phenylalanine can accumulate to dangerous levels in the body, leading to a range of adverse side effects, including brain damage. This is because people with PKU aren't able to process phenylalanine properly [7, 8].
Furthermore, people taking medications for schizophrenia should also avoid aspartame, as the phenylalanine in it may precipitate the uncontrolled muscle movements of tardive dyskinesia (TD), a potential side effect of some schizophrenia medications [7, 8].
People with advanced liver disease or pregnant people with hyperphenylalanine (high levels of phenylalanine in blood) may also have problems with aspartame because their bodies cannot properly break down phenylalanine [7, 8].
The most common side effect of phenylalanine is nervousness. Other side effects can include dizziness, trouble sleeping, burning, stinging, or sneezing right after using a nasal spray containing phenylalanine [9, 10].
Severe side effects can occur if the intranasal product is swallowed by accident. These can include nausea, vomiting, drooling, increased temperature, tiredness, and, in rare cases, coma [9, 10].
Is Phenylalanine in Soda Harmful?
The amount of phenylalanine in soft drinks can vary significantly, depending on the product and the country it was purchased [11]. Therefore, it's essential for individuals with PKU to be aware of this variability and to avoid consuming products containing aspartame.
In addition, specific other populations may also have problems with aspartame because their bodies cannot properly break down phenylalanine. These include people with $End-stage liver disease!sudden-death-from-cirrhosis-of-the-liverA$ and pregnant people with high phenylalanine in their blood [7, 8].
In conclusion, while phenylalanine in soda is not harmful for the general population, it can be detrimental for individuals with PKU and certain other health conditions.