What Is Tryptophan?

Dietary Sources

As mentioned earlier, the dietary sources of tryptophan are numerous. While it is present in seafood and ham, it is most abundantly found in poultry. Eggs, particularly egg yolks, are also a great source of it, which is why eggs are an excellent food source that helps control bad cholesterol, even though eggs contain traces of cholesterol. Amino acids are fairly chemically stable and are present even in your favorite highly processed dairy products, like yogurt and cheese. Beyond animal-based protein sources, tryptophan can be found in legumes, seeds, and oats as well. This helpful amino acid is so common that most individuals have probably been eating it virtually every day, with no unfortunate symptoms to complain of!

Read about the conditions tryptophan treats next.

Conditions Tryptophan Treats

There are a few different conditions tryptophan treats, though more research is needed to determine the exact efficacy. Scientists aren't sure why or how well tryptophan works for treating different conditions. Some doctors will recommend tryptophan to treat sleep apnea and other sleep disorders. The amino acid is also sometimes used to treat insomnia and help make an individual's sleep-wake cycles more regular. Tryptophan needs to be more deeply researched regarding its use for sleep conditions. Some studies indicate tryptophan may relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). There is also older research indicating tryptophan can be used to help individuals quit smoking or reduce the amount they smoke each day.

Uncover the medications that can interact with natural tryptophan now.