How Tryptophan Can Improve Your Mood And Sleep
- Home
- How Tryptophan Can Improve Your Mood And Sleep
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that cannot be produced in your body. It has several important functions. In particular, tryptophan is needed for the production of serotonin and melatonin, which help promote a healthy mood and better sleep quality.
Tryptophan can be converted into a molecule called 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan). Your body uses this as a precursor to make serotonin and melatonin. In your brain, these neurotransmitters positively influence sleep, cognition and mood.
Studies have shown that individuals experiencing depression may have tryptophan levels that are below normal. Anxiety and nervous tension are also usually higher. Stress, nutrient deficiencies and chronic inflammation can interfere with the conversion of tryptophan into 5-HTP.
Once serotonin has been produced from tryptophan, it can be converted into another important neurotransmitter: melatonin. Research has shown that increasing tryptophan in the blood directly increases both serotonin and melatonin. Melatonin makes it easier to fall asleep.
Foods that contain protein are the best source of tryptophan. Examples of foods high in tryptophan include poultry, seafood, red meat and eggs. It is present in small quantities in vegan foods. Adequate production of stomach acid and digestive enzymes is required for tryptophan digestion. People with poor gut health and those taking stomach acid blocking drugs may struggle with this. Taking a betaine supplement and digestive enzymes supplement can be immensely helpful with absorption.
If you’d like to improve your sleep quality and mental health, a 5-HTP supplement may help. 5-HTP is the activated from of tryptophan, so it is very fast and easy for your body to convert it into serotonin or melatonin. Blues Free capsules contain 50mg of 5-hydroxytryptophan along with vitamin B6 and niacin, to facilitate neurotransmitter production.
My book Help for Depression and Anxiety also contains a lot of useful information to help improve your nervous system.
If you are taking any medications that affect your serotonin levels, consult your doctor before taking 5-HTP supplements.
The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.
When you submit your email, you agree to join our mailing list and receive helpful updates, special offers, and product news.