What is 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid?

　　3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid (3,4-DA) is a natural compound with high antioxidant potential found in various foods. A study found that animals administered with 3,4-DA had higher exercise tolerance, reduced blood lactate, and markers of hepatic oxidation. Blood glucose and antioxidant enzymes were not affected by this treatment. 3,4-DA may have applicability in reducing the fatigue associated with exercise.

3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid,331-39-5

3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid is commonly referred to as Caffeic acid, there are other called which is 3,4-DA, 2-Propenoic Acid, 3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl), 3-(3,4-Dihydroxy Phenyl)-2-Propenoic Acid, 3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)Propenoic Acid, 3,4-Dihydroxybenzeneacrylic Acid, 4-(2-Carboxyethenyl)-1,2-Dihydroxybenzene, 4-(2'-Carboxyvinyl)-1,2-Dihydroxybenzene, (2E)-3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-2-Propenoic Acid, Acide Caféique, Ácido Cafeico.Hide Names
　　1.Identification
　　3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid is a chemical found in many plants and foods. Coffee is the primary source of 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid in the human diet. However, it can be found in other food sources such as apples, artichoke, berries, and pears. Wine also contains a significant amount of 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid.
　　3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid is used in supplements for boosting athletic performance, exercise-related fatigue, weight loss, cancer, HIV/AIDS, herpes, and other conditions.
　　2.How does it work?
　　3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid is thought to have many effects in the body including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It might also affect the immune system in the body. Test tube studies show that it might decrease the growth of cancer cells and viruses. Animal studies show that it might have a mild stimulant effect and reduce fatigue related to exercise. The effects of 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid when taken by people are not known.
　　3.Warnings
　　Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough information to know if 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid when taken as a supplement is safe during pregnancy and breast feeding. It should be avoided.
　　Insomnia. 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid might have a mild stimulating effect that could possibly worsen insomnia. However, this effect is modest and substantially less than caffeine.
　　4.dosing
　　The appropriate dose of 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for 3,4-Dihydroxycinnamic acid. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.