Amino Acids - Tryptophan

The dietary intake of tryptophan in general is lower than most other amino acids. It is not particularly high in any foods, but is readily available in flesh foods, eggs, dairy products, and some nuts and seeds. It is present in the casein component of milk.

Functionally, tryptophan is very important, and it has been used effectively for a variety of medical problems. It is the precursor for a vital neurotransmitter, serotonin, which influences moods and sleep, and serotonin levels are directly related to tryptophan intake. As other amino acids, such as tyrosine and phenylalanine, compete for absorption with tryptophan, it must be taken as a supplement to increase its blood levels.

A deficiency of tryptophan, combined with inadequate dietary niacin, can cause the symptoms of pellagra.

Low tryptophan levels are found in many patients with dementia and may have subclinical or subtle psychological effects. Tryptophan has been used effectively to treat insomnia in many people. Serotonin is needed in the brain to induce and maintain sleep.
Tryptophan also has an antidepressant effect and is particularly effective in manic depression and depression associated with menopause. Many depressed patients have low levels of tryptophan.

Tryptophan can also be a useful and safe pain reliever. It has been shown most helpful for dental pain, headaches, and cancer pain. It appears to increase the pain threshold.

It may help treat anorexia by increasing the appetite.