Aspartic acid, also called asparaginic acid, is one of the nonessential amino acids. "Nonessential" means that our bodies produce it even if we don't get this amino acid from the food we eat.
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:
Legumes such as soybeans, garbanzo beans, and lentils
Peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds
Animal sources include:
Beef
Eggs
Salmon
Shrimp
Alternative Names
Asparaginic acid
References
Gebhardt S, Cutrufelli R, Howe J, Haytowitz D, Pehrsson P, Lemar L, et al. USDA national nutrient database for standard reference, release 19, 2006.
Mason JB. Nutritional assessment and management of the malnourished patient. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:chap 15.
Review Date:
2/8/2011
Reviewed By:
Alison Evert, MS, RD, CDE, Nutritionist, University of Washington Medical Center Diabetes Care Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
