Relationship: Specific Neurotransmitters and l-tryptophan

Evidence supporting the use of: L-tryptophan
For the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis
Other ingredients for this body system
Other body systems supported by this ingredient
Products containing this ingredient

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid that serves as a biochemical precursor to serotonin, a key neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Scientific evidence supports its role in supporting the "Specific Neurotransmitters" body system, particularly serotonin. Several studies have shown that oral administration of L-tryptophan can increase brain tryptophan levels, thereby enhancing serotonin synthesis. This is especially relevant because serotonin is involved in mood regulation, sleep, and appetite control. Clinical research has explored L-tryptophan supplementation for conditions such as depression, insomnia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, with moderate efficacy reported in some cases. The mechanism is well-established: after absorption, L-tryptophan crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted via tryptophan hydroxylase to 5-hydroxytryptophan, and then to serotonin. Despite its documented risks (e.g., eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome linked to contaminated supplements in the late 1980s), purified L-tryptophan is considered effective for modulating serotonin levels when used appropriately. The evidence base is not as robust or consistent as for some pharmaceuticals, but overall, there is a significant body of scientific literature supporting its use in influencing neurotransmitter systems, particularly serotonin.

More about L-tryptophan
More about Specific Neurotransmitters

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: L-tryptophan
For the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients that support Specific Neurotransmitters

Other body systems supported by L-tryptophan

Products containing L-tryptophan

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: L-tryptophanFor the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients that support Specific Neurotransmitters

Other body systems supported by L-tryptophan

Products containing L-tryptophan

Evidence supporting the use of: L-tryptophan
For the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters