Aspartic acid is a nonessential amino acids. 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.
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: Elsevier Saunders; 2010:chap 4.
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Review Date 2/2/2015
Updated by: Emily Wax, RD, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.