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Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is required for the production of niacin (vitamin B-3. Tryptophan is necessary for the production serotonin, a necessary neurotransmitter that transfers nerve impulses from one cell to another and is responsible for normal sleep. Consequently, tryptophan helps to combat depression and insomnia and to stabilize emotional moods, pain control, inflammation, and intestinal peristalsis. It helps to control hyperactivity in children, alleviates stress, is good for the heart, aids in weight control by reducing appetite, and enhances the release of growth hormone. It is good for migraine headaches since it has been found that people suffering from migraines have abnormal levels of tryptophan, It may reduce some of the effects of nicotine. A sufficient amount of vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is necessary for the formation of tryptophan, which, in turn, is required for the formation of serotonin. A lack of tryptophan and magnesium may contribute to coronary artery spasms.
SOURCES
The best dietary sources of tryptophan include brown rice, cottage cheese, meat, poultry, peanuts, and soy protein.
This amino acid is not available in supplemental form in the United States. In November of 1989, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported evidence linking L-tryptophan supplements to a blood disorder called eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS). Several hundred cases of this illness - which is characterized by an elevated white cell count and can also cause such symptoms as fatigue, muscular pain, respiratory ailments, edema, and rash - were reported, and at least one death was attributed to the outbreak. After the CDC established an association between the blood disorder and products containing L-tryptophan in New Mexico, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration first warned consumers to stop taking L-tryptophan supplements, then recalled all products in which L-tryptophan was the sole or a major component. Subsequent research showed that it was contaminants in the supplements, not the tryptophan, that was probably responsible for the problem, but tryptophan supplements are still banned from the market in the United States.
MOLECULAR DESCRIPTION
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that must be obtained from the diet. The unusual indole side chain of tryptophan is also the nucleus of the important neurotransmitter serotonin, which is biosynthesized from tryptophan. The aromatic portion of tryptophan also serves as an ultraviolet marker for detection of this amino acid either separately, or incorporated into proteins and enzymes, via ultraviolet spectrophotometry. Tryptophan is incorporated into proteins and enzymes at the molar rate of 1.1 percent compared to other amino acids making it the rarest amino acid found in proteins.
DOSAGE
The dosage listed is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.
In certain studies supplementation of 300 mg - 600 mg per day was experimented with to help with sleep disturbances, migraines, weight loss, appetite control, anxiety and depression, but a supplementation of 100 mg at night-time proved beneficial to promote better sleep.
RDA Requirement:
- Infant 3-6 months: 19 mg per kg of body weight
- Child 10-12 years: 4 mg per kg of body weight
- Adults: 3 mg per kg of body weight
Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is required by the body for the formation of tryptophan, but people taking anti-depressants or serotonin modifying medication should be careful in taking a supplementation.
Supplemental 5-HTP is derived from the seeds of the Griffonia simplicifolia, a West African medicinal plant.
TOXICITY & SYMPTOMS OF HIGH INTAKE
Supplementation with high dosage of this amino acid could lead to gastrointestinal upsets, headaches, sleepiness and anxiety.
TRYPTOPHAN SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Uber Rest, Pure Pharmaceutical Grade L-Tryptophan, 500 mg, 60 Caps
Psychiatrists, medical doctors, and nutritionists, alike, have long recognized the importance of pure L-Tryptophan for maintaining good heath and supporting mood and sleep.
5 HTP Hydroxy Tryptophan Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 120 VCaps
5-HTP also known as Hydroxy Tryptophan is an Amino Acid and precursor to serotonin, a brain chemical responsible for regulating mood, appetite, behavior, and sleep. 5-HTP may help elevate mood, control appetite, and promote better sleep.
5 HTP / Hydroxy Tryptophan, Natural Serotonin with Vitamin B-6 & C, Nature's Way, 50 mg, 60 Tabs
5-Hydroxytryptophan is the precursor to serotonin, a mood and appetite regulating neurotransmitter product within the body. It has been combined with Vitamin C and Vitamin B-6, an important cofactor in the conversion to serotonin.
Amino 1000 Complete, NOW Foods, 120 Caps
Amino 1000 Complete contains a balanced blend of 20 essential and non-essential amino acids.
Amino 1500, Chewable Blend of 20 Amino Acids, Predigested, NOW Foods, 150 Tabs
This Amino 1500 contains a balanced blend of 20 essential and non-essential amino acids in a chewable format.
Herbal Remedies: Tryptophan / L-Tryptophan Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: 5-Hydroxytryptophan / Tryptophan Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Tryptophan / L-Tryptophan Information
Herbal Remedies: 5-Hydroxytryptophan / Tryptophan Information
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics - Amino Acids Index
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