Synopsis

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

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that serves as a biochemical precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep, and other central nervous system functions. There is substantial scientific evidence supporting the role of tryptophan in serotonin production. Tryptophan is converted in the brain to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), which is then decarboxylated to form serotonin (5-HT). Several clinical studies have demonstrated that dietary supplementation with tryptophan can increase brain serotonin levels and may have modest benefits in supporting mood and alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. For example, a review published in the journal Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews (2016) summarized evidence that tryptophan supplementation can positively affect mood in some individuals, though effects are generally small to moderate and may be more pronounced in those with low baseline serotonin. Tryptophan depletion studies, where tryptophan is temporarily removed from the diet, consistently show reductions in brain serotonin and associated changes in mood, further supporting the link. However, it is important to note that while tryptophan is scientifically validated as a serotonin precursor, the efficacy of supplementation in treating psychiatric disorders remains under investigation, and its use should be approached with caution due to potential side effects such as serotonin syndrome. Overall, the evidence supporting tryptophan’s role in the serotonin body system is robust at the biochemical level and moderately supported in clinical applications.

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