| TRYPTOPHAN Tryptophan is an essential amino acid. Tryptophan is necessary for the production of vitamin B3 (niacin). It is used by the brain produce serotonin, a necessary neurotransmitter that transfers nerve impulses from one cell to another and is responsible for normal sleep (& which exerts a calming effect). Requires pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P) a form of vitamin B6 to be converted into serotonin. P5P deficiency will lower serotonin levels, even if Tryptophan levels are normal. Tryptophan must compete with 5 other amino acids to pass through the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain. Those 5 are: tyrosine, phenylalanine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine and are called Large Neutral Amino Acids (LNAA). Can be converted into niacin (Vitamin B3). The only plasma amino acid that is bound to protein. Main Functions: • Effective sleep aid, due to conversion to serotonin. • Reduces anxiety. • Effective in some forms of depression and to stabilize moods. • Treatment for migraine headaches. • Stimulates growth hormone. • Along with Lysine, Carnitine, and Taurine is effective in lowering cholesterol levels. • Helps to control hyperactivity in children, • Alleviates stress, • Aids in weight control by reducing appetite • A lack of tryptophan and magnesium may contribute to coronary artery spasms. Tryptophan Deficiency: Deficiency symptoms of Tryptophan are dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia and digestion problems. Deficiencies seen in: • Depression • Insomnia • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome • ALS • FDA ban of Tryptophan Tryptophan Excess Seen In: • Increased intake of salicylates (aspirin). • Increased blood levels of free fatty acids. • Sleep deprivation. • Niacin intake. Rich Food Sources of Tryptophan Rich food sources of Tryptophan includes brown rice, cottage cheese, meat, peanuts, and soy protein. Caution Supplementation with high dosage of this amino acid could lead to gastrointestinal upsets, headaches, sleepiness and anxiety. Tryptophan amino acid is not available in supplement form in the United States. In November of 1989, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (COC) reported evidence linking L-tryptophan supplements to a blood disorder called eosinophiliamyalgia syndrome (EMS). Several hundred cases of this illness-which is characterized by an elevated white blood cell count and can also cause such symptoms as fatigue, muscular pain, respiratory ailments, edema, and rash were reported. 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. According to the FDA, at least thirty-eight deaths were attributable to the tryptophan supplements. Simultaneous treatment with Tryptophan and Prozac (and other SSRI anti-depressants, such as Paxil and Zoloft) can produce an irreversible brain disorder called Serotonin Syndrome. This treatment combination is to be avoided. Tryptophan is available, but only through prescription and compounding pharmacies. |