L-Tryptophan | PharmaTryptophan™

L-Tryptophan | PharmaTryptophan™

Properties: L-tryptophan can often be found as an ingredient in dietary supplements that facilitate functioning of the nervous system. It comes from the fact that this amino acid is essential for the human body. Without L-tryptophan our organism wouldn’t function properly because it’s necessary for synthesis of serotonin – a chemical compound that is one of the key neurotransmitters. Enhanced mood and good night’s sleep depend on the proper level of  serotonin. What is more, serotonin participates in key processes that occur in the body. It also regulates blood pressure, libido and appetite. So, when we have more L-tryptophan in our diet, our body produces more serotonin. This contributes to better mental health and comfortable sleeping. At the end of the day, serotonin is called the “happiness hormone” for a reason.

It is worth mentioning that tryptophan can be found in many food products eaten daily. That’s why a balanced diet is crucial to keep tryptophan on the right level. However, in some cases the diet can be insufficient. From time to time it is important to supplement the diet in order to provide vitamins and minerals essential for the body.

Active people most certainly will be interested in L-tryptophan properties due to the fact that it significantly improves stamina. Scientific studies revealed that sportspeople supplementing L-tryptophan can exercise for a longer period of time and are less fatigued during workout. Additionally, tryptophan supplementation increases beta-endorphins level which might help to ease the pain and reduce stress.

Therefore, L-tryptophan supplementation is recommended especially when we would like to support central nervous system functioning, enhance mood or sleep well.

Occurrence: Tryptophan is present in a wide variety of primary products and food. Its main sources are high protein products of animal origin, like meat (poultry, pork, beef), fish (tuna, codfish, salmon, herring), egg white, milk and cheese. Additionally, tryptophan can be found in products of plant origin, for example in soya, lentil, chickpea, flaxseed, sesame, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, rice, oat flakes, bananas, pineapples, almonds, nuts, or cocoa.

Biochemistry: Tryptophan (Trp, L-tryptophan) is an organic chemical compound belonging to a group of essential (exogenous) amino acids. It cannot be synthesized in the human body, thus it should be consumed with food. Trp is one of the 20 amino acids that are used in the process of protein synthesis as the main building material. It is absorbed in the intestinal tract. What is more, it exhibits high bioavailability, is fat-soluble and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. Tryptophan is converted to 5-HTP in the body and directly affects the production of serotonin – a “happiness hormone”. Indirectly, Trp acts as a precursor to melatonin (sleep hormone). Additionally, it takes part in synthesis of niacin – a compound involved in carbohydrates and fats processing, but also in hydrochloric acid production in the stomach. Due to this fact, Trp streamlines digestion.

Fun fact: Tryptophan is the only natural precursor of the “happiness hormone” – serotonin. That is why L-tryptophan dietary supplementation provides significant mood enhancement.