L-tryptophan, or simply tryptophan, is an amino acid present in several animal and plant species. Known primarily for its sleep-inducing presence in turkey, L-tryptophan once appeared in over-the-counter sleep products to treat mild insomnia. Natural health stores market L-tryptophan supplements for use as an adjunct or alternative treatment for mild depression, anxiety, premenstrual syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. As always, consult with a licensed health professional before attempting to self-medicate any health condition.
Sources of L-Tryptophan
Beans, whole grains and rice, chickpeas, hazelnuts, peanuts, eggs, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds all contain L-tryptophan. The amino acid is also present in pork products, turkey, chicken, beef, salmon and lamb. L-tryptophan is important for building protein, the body cannot make it naturally. The only way to get adequate amounts is to eat a diet rich in L-tryptophan or to take supplements.
L-Tryptophan Over-the-Counter History
The natural foods and sciences industry heralded L-tryptophan supplements for their ability to reduce stress and premenstrual symptoms and to induce sleep. However, according to Bastyr Center for Natural Health, a supplement distributed throughout the United States from a Japanese manufacturer in 1989 made people seriously ill with eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned it completely. The agency discovered that the manufacturers were using a fermentation process that included the addition of genetically modified bacteria that caused the outbreak. Since then, no consumers have reported eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. L-tryptophan-containing products such as 5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, are back on the market with high safety marks, revised standards and minimal side effects.
Side Effects
L-tryptophan works by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. This brain chemical regulates sleep-wake cycles and appetite and creates relaxed moods. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that you watch for symptoms indicative of autoimmune dysfunction. Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome, or EMS, is an autoimmune disorder characterized by fatigue, fever, muscle pain, tenderness, cramping, weakness, hardening of the skin, and burning and tingling sensations of the arms and legs. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek treatment immediately.
Contraindications and Warnings
L-tryptophan derived from foods is safe for most consumers. However, the University of Maryland Medical Center posits that supplementation of L-tryptophan is contraindicated with the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Other drug interactions are also possible. If you are taking any prescription medications, consult with your physician before taking any supplement with L-tryptophan in it.
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