Aspartic acid

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Definition

Aspartic acid is a nonessential amino acid. Amino acids are building blocks of proteins.

"Nonessential" means that our bodies produce it, even if we do not get this amino acid from the food we eat.

Alternative Names

Asparaginic acid

Information

Aspartic acid helps every cell in the body work. It plays a role in:

  • Hormone production and release
  • Normal nervous system function

Plant sources of aspartic acid include:

  • Avocado
  • Asparagus
  • Molasses

Animal sources of aspartic acid include:

  • Wild game
  • Oysters
  • Sausage meat

References

Hall JE, Hall ME. Protein metabolism. In: Hall JE, Hall ME, eds. Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 70.

Mason JB. Nutritional principles and assessment of the gastroenterology patient. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 5.

Review Date: 
3/11/2021
Reviewed By: 
Meagan Bridges, RD, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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