L-Tryptophan

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid and can be converted to serotonin, melatonin and even niacin (vitamin B3). It is used as a dietary supplement either as l-tryptophan or the 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) form. The body can convert l-tryptophan into 5-HTP using a hydroxylase enzyme and cofactor called BH4. The BH4 is depleted and thus addition of vitamin B9 is used to replace the BH4, thereby supporting continued conversion to 5-HTP.

L-Tryptophan can be found in chicken, eggs, cheese and fish.

100gm cheese = 570 mg tryptophan.

… Cheddar cheese has more tryptophan than chicken/turkey and is a great source of this amino acid.

Benefits:

1. L-Tryptophan can be converted naturally to 5-HTP in the body
2. Regulates activity in the brain controlling mood
3. Helps to ensure a healthy sleep pattern

Did you know…

5-HTP does not last long in the body (only a few hours) so providing it as the l-tryptophan precursor has clear advantages ?

We consume approximately 100 grams of protein per day, of which tryptophan represents only 1 gram. Considering this essential amino acid is required for several pathways generating serotonin (mood), niacin (vitamin) and NAD (cellular energy), many people choose to use supplement forms of the amino acid to support these many important cellular pathways.

The mechanism by which the body converts tryptophan into serotonin can deplete levels of the cofactor called BH4. Vitamin B9 can be used to replenish BH4 levels in the body.