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Aspartic Acid: Effects On The Body

General characteristics of aspartic acid

Aspartic acid belongs to the group of amino acids with endogenous properties. This means that in addition to its presence in food, it can also be formed in the human body.

This substance plays an important role in the proper functioning of the nervous and endocrine systems, and also contributes to the production of certain hormones (growth hormone, testosterone, progesterone).

In our body, aspartic acid acts as an excitatory mediator responsible for transmitting an activating signal from one neuron to another.

In addition, the acid is famous for its neuroprotective properties. During embryonic development, the unborn human body shows an increase in the concentration of acid in the retina and brain, indicating its role in the development of nervous tissue.

The daily requirement for aspartic acid

The daily requirement of acid for an adult is no more than 3 grams per day.

It should be consumed in 2-3 doses, calculating its amount so that no more than 1-1.5 grams are consumed per meal.

The need for aspartic acid increases in the following conditions of the human body:

  • in diseases associated with impaired functioning of the nervous system
  • in case of memory impairment
  • in the case of brain diseases
  • in the case of mental disorders
  • depression
  • decreased ability to work
  • in case of vision problems (“chicken blindness”, myopia)
  • in diseases of the cardiovascular system
  • after 35-40 years of age. It is also necessary to check the balance between aspartic acid and testosterone (male sex hormone).

The need for aspartic acid decreases:

  • in diseases associated with increased production of male sex hormones.
  • in case of high blood pressure.
  • in case of atherosclerotic changes in cerebral vessels.

Useful properties of aspartic acid and its effect on the body:

  • strengthens the body and increases efficiency.
  • participates in the synthesis of immunoglobulins
  • and accelerates recovery from fatigue.
  • helps in the assimilation of complex carbohydrates and the participation of their metabolites in the formation of DNA and RNA.
  • is able to deactivate ammonia. Aspartic acid successfully attaches ammonia molecules, converting them into asparagine, which is safe for the body. But the most important thing is that aspartic acid converts ammonia into urea and then it (urea) is excreted from the body.
  • helps the liver to remove residual elements of chemicals and medicines from the body.
  • helps potassium and magnesium ions to enter the cell.

Lack of aspartic acid in the body

Signs of aspartic acid deficiency include

  • memory impairment.
  • depressed mood.
  • decrease in a working capacity.

Excess of aspartic acid

Signs of an excess of aspartic acid in the body:

  • overstimulation of the nervous system.
  • increased aggressiveness.
  • blood clotting.

Aspartic acid reacts with another amino acid, phenylalanine, to form aspartame. This artificial sweetener is widely used in the food industry and acts as an irritant on the cells of the nervous system. For this reason, doctors do not recommend frequent use of aspartic acid supplements, especially for children whose nervous system is more sensitive. They may develop autism as a result.

The amino acid can also affect women’s health and regulate the chemical composition of follicular fluid, which affects reproductive potential.

Sources of aspartic acid

Sources of plant origin: asparagus, sprouted seeds, alfalfa, oatmeal, avocado, molasses, beans, lentils, soybeans, brown rice, nuts, brewer’s yeast, apple juice (from the Semerenko variety), potatoes.

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Written by Bella Adams

I'm a professionally-trained, executive chef with over ten years in Restaurant Culinary and hospitality management. Experienced in specialized diets, including Vegetarian, Vegan, Raw foods, whole food, plant-based, allergy-friendly, farm-to-table, and more. Outside of the kitchen, I write about lifestyle factors that impact well-being.

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