Aspartic acid is a type of amino acid that can be found in various foods, in certain artificial sweeteners, and inside of the human body. Unlike other types of acid, aspartic acid is considered a non-essential acid, which means that the body does not need to derive this type of acid from any other source, since it naturally occurs within the body.
Even though the human body produces this type of acid naturally, some people may have a non-essential acid deficiency. These people must either consume foods that contain aspartic acid, or obtain a medical prescription for aspartates. Asparates are supplements that can be used to increase the amount of non-essential acids within the body. Frequently, athletes are prescribed asparates, since these supplements can act as a barrier against any athletic injury while also increasing athletic ability.
Foods that contain aspartic acid include molasses, sugar cane, certain types of meat, some sprouted seed varieties, and some dairy products. Various health professionals believe that people who have insufficient levels of protein also have lower levels of aspartic acid, since meat is a top source of this type of acid. Thus, people who have low protein levels may also suffer from extreme fatigue and bouts of depression due to a lack of non-essential acid, though these symptoms are not solely reserved for people who do not eat meat.
While often disregarded by those outside of the medical community, aspartic acid is extremely important to the human body. Not only does this type of acid help to keep the brain alert, it also removes harmful toxins, such as ammonia, from the liver. In addition, this non-essential acid helps keep a person's metabolism functioning properly and efficiently. In short, people who have diminished levels of aspartic acid often suffer many mental and physical health problems.
Even though certain asparates may be available through health food stores, it is not recommended that these supplements be taken without the assurance of a medical doctor. People who do not need an extra dose of non-essential acid may be harmed by an asparate. Thus, it is best to speak with one's doctor prior to attempting to increase non-essential acid levels.
Since people who have low non-essential acid levels often feel fatigued and depressed, it is important that anyone experiencing these symptoms speak with a medical doctor. While there are other causes for fatigue and depression, many people feel more energetic and less depressed by following an asparate routine.