Classification

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid with an aromatic side chain. It is both, a glycogenic and a ketogenic amino acid

 

Sources of tryptophan

Best sources of tryptophan are soybeans, salmon and lamb. Vension and chicken are also rich in tryptophan

 

Functions of tryptophan

Tryptophan is needed for making Niacin (Vitamin B3). Around 3% of tryptophan is used to make it. Tryptophan is also a precursor of Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, which is used in pain perception, regulation of sleep, appetite, temperature and mood.

 

Health Conditions

Tryptophan plays a role in the prevention and/or treatment of the following health conditions:

Anxiety

Depression

Headaches

Insomnia

Nightmares

Obesity

Obsessive/compulsive disorder

Pain

Premenstrual syndrome

Senile dementia

Tourette's syndrome

 

Clinical disorder regarding tryptophan: Hartnup Disease

 

Hartnup disease is a genetic disorder that decreases the level of transport proteins for transporting certain amino acids, especially tryptophan. Symptoms include mental retardation, pallegra and photosensitivity. Treatment includes decreased exposure to sunlight and increased protein intake with Niacin supplements