TRYPTOPHAN AND AMINO ACID THERAPY
Tryptophan is one of the essential amino acids that our body needs to build proteins. Since it cannot be synthesized in the body, it must be supplied in our diet. Food sources include red meat, poultry, eggs, fish, seeds, oats and some fruits.
Tryptophan has been used as a supplement for a variety of purposes. Tryptophan is converted into 5-hydroxytryptophan, serotonin, melatonin and niacin. Serotonin is a brain neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on brain activity. Many people have anxiety and are put on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drugs like Prozac that boost the effects of the serotonin that is present at the nerve synapse. The result is less anxiety (or depression) in about 60% of treated people.
Many alternative health providers have used amino acid therapy with tryptophan in an effort to boost brain levels of serotonin. Although the effect is variable, many people do get benefit. Unlike the SSRI drugs, side effects are usually minimal and there is no withdrawal like many people get on the SSRI drugs. Tryptophan must be taken on an empty stomach in order to avoid being incorporated into a protein. Adequate doses are needed and may require 6 to 10 grams daily (take under the guidance of a qualified health professional). Supplemental Vitamin B6 may be needed to convert the amino acid into the neurotransmitter. Side effects can include drowsiness and upset stomach.
A contaminated batch of L-tryptophan made in Japan in the late 1980’s poisoned hundreds of people due to contamination in the manufacturing process. Tryptophan was removed from the market in America until 2002. It is prudent to buy only high quality pharmaceutical grade tryptophan when using this supplement.
Amino acid therapy is much more effective if a healthy diet is being consumed. The diet needs to be low in refined carbohydrates (sugar and flour), high in green vegetables, high in healthy fats (olive oil, butter, nuts, and seeds), protein at each meal (3-4 ounces) and low in junk food.
Low levels of thyroid, Vitamin D, sex or adrenal hormones will reduce the effectiveness of amino acid therapy. Testing for hormone deficiency and replacing low levels improves response to amino acid therapy. Vitamin D is also a hormone and is very commonly low, despite the fact that many people take supplemental Vitamin D (see www.vitamindcouncil.com)
Since tryptophan is also converted into melatonin, it is often helpful for people with sleep problems. Use of full spectrum lighting can be helpful as well to boost pineal gland production of melatonin. See Dr. Blodgett’s web site topic on Seasonal Affective Disorder at www.drblodgett.com for more information on this common problem. An excellent book on amino acid therapy is by Julia Ross titled A Mood Cure. In summary, if you have anxiety, depression or insomnia, consider amino acid therapy with tryptophan.
Daniel Blodgett MD