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.
Review Date:
2/18/2013
Reviewed By:
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.
