The popular dietary component that may shorten men's lives
A new study from the University of Hong Kong and the University of Georgia reveals a link between high levels of tyrosine in the blood and a shortened life expectancy in men, but not in women. Researchers analyzed data from over 270,000 people and found that high levels of the popular amino acid, known for improving focus, are associated with a life expectancy reduction of nearly a year in men. Hypotheses include insulin resistance.
A new study from the University of Hong Kong and the University of Georgia reveals a concerning link between high levels of tyrosine in the blood and shortened life expectancy in men. Researchers analyzed health and genetic data from over 270,000 individuals from the UK Biobank, focusing on two amino acids: phenylalanine and tyrosine. They found that men with high blood tyrosine levels had a life expectancy shorter by nearly a year, while no similar link was found in women. Phenylalanine, which is converted to tyrosine in the body, showed no link to life expectancy after control. Researchers hypothesize that the cause may be related to insulin resistance, as tyrosine plays a role in cell signaling that allows insulin to instruct cells to absorb sugar. High levels may disrupt this process, leading to health issues such as degenerative diseases, high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. However, the study does not prove that tyrosine supplements shorten life, and researchers recommend dietary changes to reduce high levels.