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After nearly 15 years' absence in Europe, L-tryptophan, one of the essential amino acids in the diet, is back - available to buy once more in an authorised nutritional supplement. A precursor of serotonin, melatonin and niacin, tryptophan is a vitally important substance. Discovered in 1901, it has been used for decades to relieve depression, promote sleep or aid with weight loss.
What benefits do studies show about L-Tryptophan?
Serotonin plays a key role in many of the body's functions, and particularly in depression, anxiety, mood and appetite control. Many people eat excessive amounts of carbohydrates when they feel stressed, depressed or anxious. This results in a rise in cerebral serotonin and a temporary feeling of well being and security, but at the same time, an increase in fat stores. Tryptophan supplementation improves psychological state without inducing increases in the amount of stored fat. Several studies have demonstrated the benefits and efficacy of tryptophan.
- Serotonin cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, so when levels are inadequate, only supplementation with either of its two precursors - tryptophan or 5-HTP - can raise them effectively.
- The first studies using tryptophan to influence mood were conducted in the Fifties. Tryptophan supplementation was shown to be effective and free of side-effects in subjects suffering from mild to moderate depression.
- Both on its own and combined with phototherapy, tryptophan is also an effective treatment for SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).
- In cases of mild insomnia, tryptophan promotes drowsiness and good quality sleep.
In 1990, its use in supplements was banned, after a single contaminated batch of tryptophan supplied by one Japanese manufacturer apparently led to the development of a deadly condition. Its use in drugs, infant formulas and parenteral food products, however, continued unhindered.
What are the differences between L-tryptophan and 5-HTP?
L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP are converted into serotonin following the same metabolic pathway. However, certain people react better to supplementation with L-tryptophan than with 5-HTP. This may be for a number of reasons.
- With L-tryptophan supplementation, the body maintains control over the amount of serotonin produced using the enzyme L-tryptophan hydroxylase.
- When 5-HTP is taken, some of it may find its way to the intestine where it can cause nausea. Besides, since serotonin cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, any serotonin produced outside of the brain is unable to penetrate it.
- In some individuals, certain conditions, including severe depression, can prevent the passage of 5-HTP across the blood-brain barrier - this does not happen with L-tryptophan.
L-tryptophan is available to buy in Supersmart's catalogue, providing benefits as an essential amino acid that is crucial for healthy body function and particularly, for the production of niacin.
What is in L-Tryptophan
december 3 2024
Plusieurs actions positives
Several positive actions
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october 3 2024
Complètement nutritionnelle interessant à prendre au changement de saison notamment dès les premiers jours de l automne pour faciliter le sommeil et aider à faire le deuil de la belle saison ! L heure de prise vers 17 h n’ est pas banale et il faut en prendre l habitude …. Les précurseurs sont sans risque et constituent un bon carburant pour optimiser la production naturelle et physiologique d hormones ou de neuromédiateurs tels que la sérotonine et la melatonine … La forme galénique en gros comprimés nécessite une quantité suffisante d eau pour ne pas irriter l œsophage. Qualité du produit irréprochable.
Completely nutritionally interesting to take at the change of seasons, especially from the first days of autumn to facilitate sleep and help mourn the end of the beautiful season! The intake time around 5 p.m. is unusual and takes some getting used to... The precursors are risk-free and provide good fuel to optimize the natural and physiological production of hormones or neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin... The galenic form in large tablets requires a sufficient amount of water to avoid irritating the esophagus. Product quality is impeccable.
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august 19 2024
Bon produit pour apporter de la sérénité.
Good product for bringing serenity.
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july 31 2024
Le tryptophan m'a aidé à retrouvé un meilleur sommeil
Tryptophan has helped me regain better sleep.
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july 26 2024
Les cachets sont énormes et de plus même en les coupant ça passe mal. Cordialement
The tablets are huge and even when cut, they are hard to swallow. Best regards
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