From Dispatch Room
A commonly used supplement ingredient marketed for boosting focus and mental performance may be linked to reduced lifespan in men, according to a new scientific study published in Aging-US.
The research suggests that elevated levels of the amino acid tyrosine in the bloodstream could be associated with a shorter life expectancy among male participants.
Tyrosine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. It is also widely sold as a supplement, often promoted for enhancing alertness, concentration, and stress response.
The study analysed genetic and health data from more than 270,000 participants in the UK Biobank. Researchers examined whether amino acid levels were associated with mortality risk using statistical and genetic modelling techniques.
Findings indicated that while both tyrosine and phenylalanine initially appeared linked to higher mortality risk, only tyrosine remained significantly associated after deeper analysis. Genetic estimates suggested that higher tyrosine levels in men could correlate with nearly one year of reduced lifespan.
Researchers also found no significant link in women, suggesting possible biological or hormonal differences in how tyrosine affects long-term health outcomes.
Tyrosine plays a key role in the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which influence mood, motivation, and stress response. However, disruptions in these pathways, as well as potential links to insulin resistance and metabolic disease, may help explain the observed association.
The study did not test tyrosine supplements directly, meaning it does not conclude that supplement use shortens life expectancy. Instead, it highlights a correlation between naturally occurring blood levels and long-term health outcomes.
Experts caution that more research is needed to determine whether diet, supplementation, or metabolic factors drive the observed relationship.
Future studies are expected to further explore how amino acid levels interact with ageing, disease risk, and sex-based biological differences.
— Newspot Nigeria
