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Aspartic acid

Aspartic acid is an 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 is also called asparaginic acid.

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

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. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 4.

Updated: 2/18/2013

Alison Evert, MS, RD, CDE, Nutritionist, University of Washington Medical Center Diabetes Care Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang.


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