Panic attacks are the episodes of intense fear for a brief duration. The symptoms of panic attack include fast heart rate, sweating, trembling, feelings of choking, chest pain or discomfort and nausea. An alternative to such a condition is tryptophan, a unique amino acid that is an essential component of human diet. Always talk with your doctor before taking tryptophan in supplement form.
Function
Tryptophan is the sole precursor of serotonin, a chemical messenger involved in mood, behavior and cognition. In the body, tryptophan is first converted into 5-HTP, which is than decarboxylated to serotonin. A 2008 study published in the "International Journal of Tryptophan Research" found that serotonin neurotransmission in the brain is involved in the development of panic attacks.
Research
A study published in 2000 and conducted at the Manchester Royal Infirmary examined the effect of tryptophan depletion in patients with panic disorder. The experiment included 20 volunteers with panic disorder and 19 normal control volunteers. In a double-blind study, researchers gave a tryptophan-free drink or a drink containing tryptophan to the volunteers. The result showed that those patients who consumed a tryptophan-free drink had even more intense panic attacks compared to those who had consumed a tryptophan-containing drink. The study suggests that tryptophan may modulate anxiety in patients with panic disorder.
Tryptophan Diet and Panic Attacks
Food high in carbohydrates allows the absorption of more tryptophan in the brain. A case study conducted at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that low-carbohydrate diet initiate the symptoms of panic attack. Carbohydrate consumption increases serotonin release in the brain by increasing the ratio of tryptophan to other large, neutral amino acids in the blood. Foods like chicken, beef, turkey, brown rice, nuts, milk, eggs and cheese are also the excellent source of tryptophan.
Safety
Intake of tryptophan may cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, emotional agitation, restlessness, general unease and dryness of mouth in some people. It is important to consult your doctor before taking tryptophan supplement for panic attacks.
References
- "International Journal of Tryptophan Research"; Tryptophan Research in Panic disorder; E. Maron et. al; August 2008.
- "The British Journal of Psychiatry"; Effect of Acute Tryptophan Depletion on CO2-Induced Anxiety in Patients with Panic Disorder and Normal Volunteers; E. Miller et.al.; Feb 2000
- "Academy of Psychosomatics Medicine"; A Case of the Re-Emergence of Panic and Anxiety Symptoms After Initiation of a High-Protein, Very Low Carbohydrate Diet; Mark J. Ehrenreich; April 2006.
