Tyrosine is an essential amino acid which is used to make the catecholamine neurotransmitters—dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. It comes in a few forms, including L-Tyrosine and N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT or NAT), where the amino acid tyrosine is bonded to an acetyl group.
The big questions remain: NALT vs L-Tyrosine: which is better? What exactly is the difference between them? When considering NALT vs L-Tyrosine while shopping for nootropic stacks, sport nutrition formulas and other supplements, what should you look for?
We've got the answers you need right here. We are going in-depth on the tyrosine topic in this article. Including tips on the best nootropic, caffeine pill and pre-workout supplements to buy that supply tyrosine (as NALT or L-Tyrosine) Let's get to it!
Key Takeaways
- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) and L-Tyrosine are two forms of the same amino acid used to make neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
- Both help to support memory, mood, and cognition; plus has far-reaching additional benefits for stress, weight loss, gym training, muscle health and more.
- Both L-Tyrosine and NALT can help maintain performance under stressful conditions like multitasking, sleep deprivation, and physical stress.
- L-Tyrosine is the natural form of the amino acid, found in food sources such as dairy, meat, and eggs. L-Tyrosine has lower absorption and may be less effective at crossing the blood-brain barrier, but is still great for muscle and workout benefits.
- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) is a modified "enhanced absorption" version of L-Tyrosine with an added acetyl group, designed to improve stability and solubility. The preferred choice for nootropic stacks and brain supplements.
Best Nootropic Supplement with Tyrosine
- Mind Lab Pro®. 11 nootropics in 1 formula that does it all, memory, mood, focus, attention and more. Includes 175 mg of N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine per serving to restore brain chemicals and max-out mental performance under stress. Clinically researched, premium and clean. Shop Mind Lab Pro
Top Pre-Workout Supplement with Tyrosine
- Pre Lab Pro®. Supplies moderate dose of athletics-tuned caffeine, sports nutrients and nootropics to unlock mind-over-matter performance. Includes 400 mg of L-Tyrosine per serving. Energy, endurance, focus, motivation, intensity, in a great-tasting berry-flavored drink. Shop Pre Lab Pro
Best Caffeine Pill with Tyrosine
- Caffeine 2 is a caffeine pill is enhanced with nootropics -- L-Theanine, L-Tyrosine (250 mg per serving) and B-vitamins -- to deliver calmer, cleaner mental energy than coffee or energy drinks. Get greater control over your level of stimulation and perform better overall! Shop Caffeine 2 Now.
We go into more detail on these top-tier L-Tyrosine products at the end of this article.
What is Tyrosine?
L-tyrosine is one of the many amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. The amino acid L-Tyrosine is produced naturally in the body from another amino acid called phenylalanine, but it can also be found in the diet, such as dairy products, meat, fish, eggs, and oats.
L-tyrosine is used in the body to make neurotransmitters and other vital compounds.
L-tyrosine can also be consumed as a supplement, mostly contained in supplements that aim to enhance cognitive function.
There are some studies that suggest that taking L-tyrosine may improve memory and mental performance, especially under stress.(1)
L-Tyrosine may indeed be a powerful nootropic that can help enhance mental performance and resilience in high-stress situations. It is an amino acid that the body uses to produce key neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which are essential for memory, mood regulation, and mental processing.
Under stressful conditions, the brain’s supply of these neurotransmitters can become depleted, leading to mental fatigue, reduced focus, and impaired cognitive function.
Supplementing with L-Tyrosine helps replenish catecholamine brain chemicals, thereby supporting a range of benefits for cognitive performance. Research shows that L-Tyrosine may improve:
Working memory and learning speed: Even under physically stressful conditions like cold water immersion.(2)
Mental performance in noisy environments: Such as maintaining focus and accuracy during exposure to 90-decibel noise.(3)
Short-term memory and multitasking: During cognitively demanding activities that require juggling multiple tasks.(4)
Cognitive function and mood during sleep deprivation: Helping maintain alertness and emotional stability when sleep is compromised.(5)
Additional potential benefits associated with tyrosine
- Supports thyroid hormone production (thyroxine and triiodothyronine).
- Helps regulate metabolism and energy levels.
- Supports endocrine system, adrenal gland function and stress response.
- May help with weight loss efforts
- May improve physical endurance and performance.
- Assists in protein synthesis for muscle repair and growth.
- Supports the body’s response to physical stress and recovery.
L-Tyrosine is popular among both nootropic enthusiasts and athletes due to its ability to optimize brain function and physical performance. It’s a common ingredient in pre-workout supplements and cognitive enhancement formulas.
Learn more about the top pre-workouts with tyrosine
A 2022 clinical trial found that tyrosine supplementation significantly improved reaction times and decision-making during cognitive tests, while also reducing markers of physiological stress, such as elevated heart rate and cortisol levels.(6)
Tip: Many advanced nootropic supplements include N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT), a more bioavailable form of L-Tyrosine that is believed to be better absorbed and utilized by the body.
Adding L-Tyrosine to your regimen can be an effective way to combat stress-related cognitive decline and stay mentally sharp in demanding situations.
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine Vs L-Tyrosine
The primary difference between N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) and L-Tyrosine lies in their chemical structure and bioavailability:
L-Tyrosine
- Standard form of the amino acid tyrosine, naturally found in food sources and produced in the body.
- Generally has a lower absorption rate in the body.
- It is water-soluble and can be less effective in some cases because it is not as easily transported across the blood-brain barrier.
- Typically recommended for those who want a straightforward, natural form of tyrosine for sports nutrition, dopamine support and general health.
- L-Tyrosine is also more affordable than NALT, with a neutral taste that makes it better for sports drinks and flavored pre-workouts (NALT tastes pretty terrible).
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine
- Modified version of L-Tyrosine, where an acetyl group is attached to the tyrosine molecule. The addition of the acetyl group is meant to improve its stability, absorption and effectiveness.
- Believed to have higher bioavailability, meaning it may be absorbed more efficiently by the body.
- Often included in nootropic stacks because of its enhanced solubility and potential for better absorption. It is ideal for cognitive enhancement, stress reduction, and performance improvement during intense activities.
- More commonly found in capsule form because N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine powder can have a bitter taste due to its chemical structure.
More on NALT (N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine)
NALT is a derivative of L-tyrosine, commonly promoted for its better absorption and efficacy. Though, this doesn’t change the benefits it provides—boosting physical and mental performance.
As with plain tyrosine, NALT increases neurotransmitters known as catecholamines, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.
These neurotransmitters play major roles in our mental health, cognition, behavior, and stress response. The body is always in need of a steady supply of tyrosine to maintain their production and keep cognitive performance at its peak.
L-tyrosine is also thought to counter the effects of brain stress, potentially helping support the synthesis of neurotransmitters that are often depleted by high-pressure thinking.
Studies have shown that L-tyrosine may help promote working memory under stressful conditions and optimize mental performance under high-stress, fatigued or sleep deprived states.
Absorption and Bioavailability
When considering N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine vs L-Tyrosine, absorption is a factor. Many brain supplement manufacturers more often use N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine as opposed to L-tyrosine because NALT more efficiently absorbs and more easily crosses the blood-brain barrier.
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine is also suggested to be more bioavailable. Bioavailability is the measure of the amount of a substance that enters the circulation and becomes active in the body.
Greater plasma tyrosine levels due to higher bioavailability means that N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine may deliver more beneficial activity than plain tyrosine.
Tyrosine Rich Foods
Before we get into the dietary supplement considerations of N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine vs L-Tyrosine, let's take a look at some food sources of this important amino acid.
Chicken Breast: Tyrosine Content: ~1,400 mg per 100 grams (3.5 oz): Lean poultry like chicken breast is a high-protein source of tyrosine, supporting neurotransmitter production.
Cheddar Cheese: Tyrosine Content: ~1,800 mg per 100 grams (3.5 oz): Aged cheeses are particularly rich in tyrosine, making them a powerful food source for cognitive support.
Soy Products (Tofu, Tempeh): Tyrosine Content: ~1,100 mg per 100 grams (3.5 oz): Soy-based foods are excellent plant-based sources of tyrosine, ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
Lean Beef, Tyrosine Content: ~1,300 mg per 100 grams (3.5 oz): Lean cuts of beef are rich in tyrosine and can help boost dopamine production.
Eggs: Tyrosine Content: ~250 mg per large egg: Eggs are a versatile source of tyrosine, as well as other essential amino acids for sharp cognitive function.
Pumpkin Seeds: Tyrosine Content: ~1,000 mg per 100 grams (3.5 oz): Pumpkin seeds are a potent plant-based source of tyrosine and other nutrients that support brain health.
NALT: Nootropic Stacking 101
Any standalone nootropic will provide specific benefits, however stacking nootropics will result in a much more potent effect. These nootropics will work together and complement each other’s effects.
NALT specifically is great as a standalone supplement under certain conditions, however it would be even more powerful when combined with other nootropic ingredients.
Here are some other nootropic ingredients (also contained in Mind Lab Pro) which work well with NALT:
L-theanine is known as one of the best natural nootropics for simultaneously providing a relaxed, yet focused mindset - often described as “wakeful relaxation”.
L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid sourced from green tea leaves. This powerful nootropic is known to significantly boost daytime cognitive function while aiding quality sleep during the nighttime - the perfect partner for L-tyrosine.
B-Vitamins
B-vitamins (for our current purposes referring to B6, B9 and B12) are essential nutrients we need for many important bodily functions. However, they are especially noted as co-factors in catecholamine synthesis (dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine).
B-vitamins play a big role in brain function by enabling L-tyrosine to convert into catecholamines and other key neurotransmitters such as GABA, norepinephrine and melatonin.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola rosea is a powerful adaptogenic herb known to strengthen mental and physical stress resistance and promote mental clarity.
Rhodiola helps fight mental fatigue, promotes a calm mindset, and potentially provide a natural stimulating effect. This is a perfect complementary herb for L-tyrosine, as they are both effectively providing the same benefits in different ways.
The easiest way to “stack” nootropics is to supplement with a nootropic formula such as Mind Lab Pro, which takes the guesswork out of nootropic stacking strategies by combining 11 of the best quality nootropics available!
Best N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) and L-Tyrosine Supplements
Mind Lab Pro®: Top All-In-One Nootropic Supplement with Tyrosine (as NALT)
A "Universal Nootropic" to boost all types of cognitive function in all types of people.
The MLP Formula: Citicoline (CDP Choline) dosage 250mg per serving, Phosphatidylserine (PS) 100mg (from sunflower lecithin), Bacopa monnieri 150mg (24% bacosides, 9 bioactives), Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom 500mg (fruit and mycelium), Maritime Pine Bark Extract 75mg (Standardized to 95% proanthocyanidins), N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine 175mg, L-Theanine 100mg per serving, Rhodiola rosea 50mg (Standardized to 3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides), NutriGenesis® Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg), Vitamin B9 (100 mcg), Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg)
Mind Lab Pro® is a comprehensive nootropic supplement designed to enhance cognitive function, memory, focus, and overall brain health, utilizing a synergistic blend of scientifically researched ingredients, providing users with improved mental clarity, productivity, and long-term brain support.
Each serving of Mind Lab Pro supplies 175 mg of N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine.
MLP® is one of the only nootropic supplements that is actually backed by human research.
- Study 1: Subjects taking MLP showed significant improvements (compared to placebo) in information processing tasks.(9)
- Study 2: Subjects taking MLP had significant improvements across multiple memory functions, including auditory, visual, visual working, immediate and delayed recall memory.(10)
Ultimately, Mind Lab Pro® is the one nootropic supplement that does everything you need -- focus, memory, attention, concentration, mood, relaxation, stress resistance, memory and more.
Pre Lab Pro®: Best Pre-Workout with L-Tyrosine
“World’s smartest pre-workout drink": smooth energy, focus and peak performance with no jitters or crashes.
Ingredients: Red Beetroot Powder; Setria® Performance Blend; Natural Caffeine; L-Theanine; L-Tyrosine; Vitamin D3, Potassium and Iron (all as NutriGenesis®), Himalayan Pink Salt. Delicious natural berry flavor.
Pre Lab Pro® is a nootropics-enhanced pre-workout formula developed by Opti Nutra. It supplies a moderate dose of sport-tuned caffeine with amino acids that balance energy with calm control.
With an additional nitric oxide boost for blood flow plus natural hydration support, Pre Lab Pro® enhances intensity, motivation and mental sharpness throughout your session -- for better gym performance, muscle growth and muscle gains overall.
Performance Lab® Caffeine 2: Top Caffeine Pill with L-Tyrosine
This "smart caffeine" delivers precision stimulation in a cleaner, healthier format -- boosted with nootropics like L-Tyrosine for sharper, calmer performance.
Ingredients: Natural Caffeine (from Coffea robusta seeds), L-Theanine, L-Tyrosine, NutriGenesis® Caffeine Balance B-Complex.
Caffeine 2 is an ultramodern caffeine pill augmented with nootropics (including L-Tyrosine). It supplies caffeine in 50-mg increments. One capsule is 50 mg caffeine, two capsules is 100, three capsules is 150 and so on. So you can fine-tune caffeine intake for better benefits.
With additional L-Theanine, B-Vitamins and L-Tyrosine (250 mg per serving), Caffeine 2 enhances all caffeine advantages and benefits -- alertness, mental clarity, physical and mental energy -- while reducing jitters, crashes and other unpleasant side effects.
Shop Performance Lab® Caffeine 2
Summary
While both N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) and L-Tyrosine are effective forms of the same amino acid, their unique properties make them suitable for different needs.
L-Tyrosine is a natural, straightforward option that is ideal for those looking to boost neurotransmitter production through dietary sources or direct supplementation.
On the other hand, NALT’s enhanced bioavailability and absorption make it a preferred choice in nootropic stacks and cognitive enhancement formulas, especially in situations requiring higher mental and physical performance under stress.
The supplements in this article present a few high-quality options supplying both N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine for cognitive benefits and L-Tyrosine for sports nutrition and general neurotransmitter support.
References
- Neri DF, Wiegmann D, Stanny RR, Shappell SA, McCardie A, McKay DL. The effects of tyrosine on cognitive performance during extended wakefulness. Aviat Space Environ Med. 1995 Apr;66(4):313-9.
- Mahoney CR, et al. Tyrosine supplementation mitigates working memory decrements during cold exposure. Physiol Behav. 2007 Nov 23;92(4):575-82. Epub 2007 May 22
- Deijen JB1, Orlebeke JF. Effect of tyrosine on cognitive function and blood pressure under stress. Brain Res Bull. 1994;33(3):319-23
- Thomas JR, et al. Tyrosine improves working memory in a multitasking environment. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1999 Nov;64(3):495-500.
- Neri DF, et al. The effects of tyrosine on cognitive performance during extended wakefulness. Aviat Space Environ Med. 1995 Apr;66(4):313-9.
- Mathar D, Erfanian Abdoust M, Marrenbach T, Tuzsus D, Peters J. The catecholamine precursor Tyrosine reduces autonomic arousal and decreases decision thresholds in reinforcement learning and temporal discounting. PLoS Comput Biol. 2022 Dec 22;18(12):e1010785.
- Kobayashi K. Role of catecholamine signaling in brain and nervous system functions: new insights from mouse molecular genetic study. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc. 2001 Nov;6(1):115-21.
- Magnusson I, Ekman L, Wångdahl M, Wahren J. N-acetyl-L-tyrosine and N-acetyl-L-cysteine as tyrosine and cysteine precursors during intravenous infusion in humans. Metabolism. 1989 Oct;38(10):957-61.
- Utley A, Gonzalez Y, Imboden CA. The Efficacy of A Nootropic Supplement on Information Processing in Adults: A Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Study. Biomed J Sci & Tech Res 49(1)-2023. BJSTR.
- Abbott-Imboden C., Gonzalez Y., Utley A. (2023). Efficacy of the nootropic supplement Mind Lab Pro on memory in adults: Double blind, placebo-controlled study. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, e2872.
