For the production of tryptophan, both a one-step synthesis using bacterial auxotrophic mutants with impaired regulation of amino acid synthesis, and a two-step synthesis, including first obtaining a precursor of tryptophan, and then its enzymatic conversion into the final product, tryptophan, are used.
In bacteria and other organisms, tryptophan is formed from erythroso-4-phosphate and phosphoenolpyruvic acid through a series of sequential reactions, including the formation of shikimic and chorismic acids, and the direct precursor of tryptophan is anthranilic acid.
Tryptophan synthesis is allosterically inhibited by end products that act on enzymes that catalyze the initial stages of conversions associated with the formation of chorismic acid.
To shift metabolic reactions along the path of preferential formation of tryptophan, it is necessary to block the conversion of chorismic acid into prefenic acid, which is achieved by the action of mutagenic factors. In mutants with reduced activity of enzymes that catalyze the conversion of chorismic acid into prefenic acid, an increased synthesis of tryptophan is observed, but for the normal development of these mutants, deficient amino acids - phenylalanine and tyrosine - must be added to the nutrient medium in amounts that do not cause regulatory inhibition of tryptophan synthesis enzymes.
For the industrial production of tryptophan, technologies have been developed based on the use of auxotrophic mutants: bacteria of the genus Bacillus subtilis with impaired synthesis of phenylalanine and tyrosine. All technological processes are organized in approximately the same way as the production of lysine using mutant strains of corynebacteria. Fermentation lasts 48 hours at 37 ° C, the concentration of tryptophan in the culture liquid reaches 10 g / L. After separating the culture liquid from the bacterial cells, it is evaporated and dried at 110 - 120 ° C. The dried product is called tryptophan feed concentrate (CTC).
Upon receipt of highly concentrated preparations of tryptophan, the culture fluid is subjected to additional purification. First, it is acidified hydrochloric acid to pH 1.0 and then the formed precipitate is separated by centrifugation. Next, the centrifugate containing tryptophan is passed through ion-exchange columns with a cation exchanger, as a result of which the amino acid is bound and thus separated from the culture liquid. After washing the columns, tryptophan is desorbed with a 5% ammonia solution in a mixture of isopropanol and water. The eluate is sent to a vacuum evaporator, after which the amino acid is crystallized at 4 - 8 ° C. The tryptophan salt isolated in crystalline form is washed with ethanol and dried under vacuum at 60 ° C. The dried crystalline preparation contains at least 99% tryptophan in the form of chloride. The sediment after separation of the culture liquid, containing the cells of the bacterial culture, is also dried and used as a high-protein feed additive containing an increased amount of tryptophan.
The synthesis of tryptophan in our country is carried out mainly according to a two-stage scheme. First, the precursor of tryptophan, anthranilic acid, is obtained by chemical synthesis, which is then converted into tryptophan with the participation of enzymes of microbial origin.
The biochemical conversion of anthranilic acid to tryptophan occurs in three stages: at the first stage, aminoglycoside-N- (5'-phosphoribosyl) -anthranilic acid is formed from anthranilic acid with the participation of phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate (FPPP), which, as a result of intramolecular rearrangement and decarboxylation-3- glycerophosphate. At the last stage, tryptophan is formed from indole-3-glycerophosphate and the amino acid serine under the action of the enzyme tryptophan synthetase. Due to the fact that pyridoxal phosphate serves as an active group in the tryptophan synthetase enzyme, the rate of conversion of anthranilic acid into tryptophan depends on the presence of this coenzyme in the medium. Yeast is used as a source of enzymes.
The production process of biochemical conversion of anthranilic acid to tryptophan is carried out in two stages.
At the first stage, the biomass of yeast, which is an enzyme producer, is increased. The nutrient medium for growing yeast is prepared from beet molasses, urea, mineral salts. Fermentation continues for 24 hours at 30 ° C. Next, an alcoholic 5% solution of anthranilic acid and a 50% solution of urea are introduced into the fermenter. In 3 - 4 hours after adding antanylic acid, a carbon substrate is additionally fed into the fermenter - molasses in the form of a 25% solution. At subsequent stages of fermentation, anthranilic acid and urea are periodically fed every 6 hours and molasses solution every 12 hours. 0.5% (6 g / l). After evaporation and drying, tryptophan feed concentrate (CCP) is obtained, containing 90% of dry matter, 48 - 54% of proteins, 1 - 3% of tryptophan, 1.5 - 1.9 mg (%) of vitamin B1, 2.5 - 3, 3 mg (%) vitamin B2, 62 - 68 mg (%) vitamin PP.
Absolutely all people are subject to mood swings. But few people know that to avoid this you need to control the level of tryptophan in the blood. It is important to adjust your diet, have adequate sleep and a positive attitude.
As you know, tryptophan affects the rhythm of a person's sleep and improves his mood. When tryptophan is ingested, it stimulates the production of serotonin, thereby causing relaxation and a sense of well-being.
Useful characteristics
As a general rule, people rarely turn to healthy protein to lift their spirits. Usually, preference is given to alcoholic beverages or even drugs.
Unfortunately, not all people choose a hobby, sport or communication with loved ones to enhance their everyday positive tone.
One of the best ways to increase your positive attitude is to eat high-protein foods. This automatically means that the food contains tryptophan.
Fans of diets will be pleased with the following information: the substance helps to establish a normal weight. The amino acid reduces the desire to eat sweet and starchy foods, which, subsequently, has a positive effect on weight.
A person on a diet, usually irritable and angry. Tryptophan has been successful in reducing these manifestations. To do this, you need to eat foods containing this amino acid.
There are scientific studies that state that the amino acid can reduce the symptoms and manifestations of PMS in women.
Foods that contain tryptophan
As you know, the amino acid must be obtained from food. At the same time, it is important not only the amount, but also the interaction of the amino acid with minerals, vitamins and other substances. If there is a lack of vitamin B, zinc and magnesium in the body, then it is difficult for the substance to affect the human brain.
Juices
If you need to raise the general mood, freshly squeezed juice is ideal. For example, after drinking tomato juice, health quickly improves. Do not forget that berry and fruit juices contain a sufficient amount of vitamins, which contributes to the production of serotonin.
Animal and vegetable oils
Omega 3 fatty acids are directly involved in the organization of the brain. It is these acids that are found in both animals and vegetable oils... Some of them:
- flax seed oil,
- cod liver oil
- sardine oil.
Vegetables and fruits
It is important to know which specific foods contain tryptophan.
The largest volume of the substance is found in raw algae, including kelp and spirulina.
But the easiest way is to provide the body with this amino acid by buying fresh spinach or turnips on the market.
In addition, tryptophan-rich foods include:
- beans,
- parsley leaves,
- cabbage: broccoli, Peking cabbage, cabbage, cauliflower and kohlrabi.
Dried fruits and fruits
Fruits have a small content of a substance, but at the same time, they have a more important task - they provide the body with vitamins.
For the production of serotonin in the blood, it is necessary to eat: For diabetics, it is important to know how well they combine, and the information on our website will help in this matter.
- bananas,
- melon,
- dates,
- oranges.
Nuts
Milk products
Hard cheese is a real record holder for serotonin content. In second place in terms of serotonin content:
- milk,
- cottage cheese,
- processed cheese.
Cereals and cereals
For the body to work properly, it is important to eat porridge. Scientists have different opinions as to which ones contain this amino acid. It is believed that in buckwheat and oatmeal. Porridge contains complex carbohydrates that balance.
Moreover, these carbohydrates normalize insulin levels. He is directly involved in the transport of tryptophan, directly to the brain.
| Product | Tryptophan | % of daily allowance in 1 portion weighing 200g. |
| Red caviar | 960 mg | 192% |
| black caviar | 910 mg | 182% |
| Dutch cheese | 780 mg | 156% |
| peanut | 750 mg | 150% |
| almond | 630 mg | 126% |
| cashew nuts | 600 mg | 120% |
| processed cheese | 500 mg | 100% |
| Pine nuts | 420 mg | 84% |
| rabbit meat, turkey | 330 mg | 66% |
| halva | 360 mg | 72% |
| squid | 320 mg | 64% |
| horse mackerel | 300 mg | 60% |
| sunflower seeds | 300 mg | 60% |
| pistachios | 300 mg | 60% |
| hen | 290 mg | 58% |
| peas, beans | 260 mg | 52% |
| herring | 250 mg | 50% |
| veal | 250 mg | 50% |
| beef | 220 mg | 44% |
| salmon | 220 mg | 44% |
| cod | 210 mg | 42% |
| mutton | 210 mg | 42% |
| fat cottage cheese | 210 mg | 40% |
| chicken eggs, | 200 mg | 40% |
| pollock | 200 mg | 40% |
| chocolate | 200 mg | 40% |
| pork | 190 mg | 38% |
| low-fat cottage cheese | 180 mg | 36% |
| carp | 180 mg | 36% |
| halibut, walleye | 180 mg | 36% |
| low-fat cottage cheese | 180 mg | 36% |
| buckwheat | 180 mg | 36% |
| millet | 180 mg | 36% |
| sea bass | 170 mg | 34% |
| mackerel | 160 mg | 32% |
| oat groats | 160 mg | 32% |
| dried apricots | 150 mg | 30% |
| mushrooms | 130 mg | 26% |
| barley groats | 120 mg | 24% |
| pearl barley | 100 mg | 20% |
| wheat bread | 100 mg | 20% |
| fried potatoes | 84 mg | 16.8% |
| dates | 75 mg | 15% |
| boiled rice | 72 mg | 14.4% |
| Boiled potatoes | 72 mg | 14.4% |
| Rye bread | 70 mg | 14% |
| prunes | 69 mg | 13.8% |
| greens (dill, parsley) | 60 mg | 12% |
| beet | 54 mg | 10.8% |
| raisin | 54 mg | 10.8% |
| cabbage | 54 mg | 10.8% |
| bananas | 45 mg | 9% |
| carrot | 42mg | 8.4% |
| onion | 42 mg | 8.4% |
| milk, kefir | 40 mg | 8% |
| tomatoes | 33 mg | 6.6% |
| apricots | 27 mg | 5.4% |
| oranges | 27 mg | 5.4% |
| Garnet | 27 mg | 5.4% |
| grapefruit | 27 mg | 5.4% |
| lemon | 27 mg | 5.4% |
| peaches | 27 mg | 5.4% |
| Cherry | 24 mg | 4.8% |
| Strawberry | 24 mg | 4.8% |
| raspberries | 24 mg | 4.8% |
| tangerines | 24 mg | 4.8% |
| honey | 24 mg | 4.8% |
| plums | 24 mg | 4.8% |
| cucumbers | 21 mg | 4.2% |
| zucchini | 21 mg | 4.2% |
| watermelon | 21 mg | 4.2% |
| grape | 18 mg | 3.6% |
| melon | 18 mg | 3.6% |
| persimmon | 15 mg | 3% |
| cranberry | 15 mg | 3% |
| apples | 12 mg | 2.4% |
| pears | 12 mg | 2.4% |
| pineapple | 12 mg | 2.4% |
Tryptophan in dietetics
Now in any pharmacy you can buy a drug containing this substance. However, doctors have developed a "tryptophan diet".
Every day, the human body needs 350 grams of food with tryptophan. Scientist Luca Passamonti is an adherent of this diet, he claims that it reduces aggressiveness and even helps prevent suicide, although it is not known how much.
The need for tryptophan for a person per day, on average, is only 1 gram. The human body does not produce tryptophan on its own. However, the need for it is very high, since it is involved in the structure of the protein. It depends on the protein at what levels the human nervous and cardiac systems will work.
At least once we all felt a state of general weakness: bad mood, irritability, sleep disturbance. Plus problems with the cardiovascular system, and sometimes an unhealthy craving for alcohol ... All these are signs of a lack of an essential amino acid for our body - tryptophan.
Tryptophan rich foods:
General characteristics of tryptophan
Tryptophan belongs to the group of essential amino acids found mainly in plant foods. It helps with hyperactivity disorder in children. It is used to control body weight, as well as to normalize the synthesis of growth hormone. It is a source of serotonin, the hormone of joy. In addition, it is involved in the production of niacin (vitamin B3).
Daily Tryptophan Requirement
The daily requirement of our body for tryptophan is 1 gram. In this case, it is advisable to use not tablets containing it, but the products described above. The fact is that a chemically produced amino acid can have such violations in the structural scheme that will not allow it to be properly assimilated by the body. If, for some reason, you still have to use dietary supplements containing tryptophan, combine their use with food containing carbohydrates.
The need for tryptophan increases with:
- increased irritability and aggressiveness;
- seasonal functional disorders;
- anxiety (including PMS);
- with eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia);
- migraines and headaches of various types;
- obsessive-compulsive disorder and schizophrenia;
- chronic diseases heart and blood vessels;
- sleep disorders;
- increased sensitivity to pain;
- alcohol addiction;
- chronic fatigue syndrome.
The need for tryptophan decreases with:
- familial hypertryptophanemia (a hereditary disease that disrupts metabolism and leads to the accumulation of tryptophan in the blood);
- Hartnap's disease (violation of active transport of tryptophan through the intestinal wall);
- Tada syndrome (a hereditary disease associated with a violation of the conversion of tryptophan into kynurenine. When the disease is observed damage to the central nervous system);
- Price syndrome (a genetic disease manifested by an increased excretion of kynurenine in the urine, as well as scleroderma);
- indicanuria (increased content of indican in urine).
Tryptophan assimilation
For the complete metabolism of tryptophan, the presence of vitamins is necessary: C, B6 and folic acid s (vitamin B9). In addition, the presence of magnesium is also required. Therefore, when taking tryptophan, do not forget about these nutrients as well.
Useful properties of tryptophan and its effect on the body
The use of tryptophan has a beneficial effect on chronic diseases of the heart and blood vessels. The number of people who abuse alcohol is decreasing. The number of strokes is decreasing. Women experience PMS more easily. Sleep quality improves and signs of chronic fatigue disappear.
Interaction with other elements
As mentioned above, tryptophan successfully interacts with vitamins B6 and B9, vitamin C, and magnesium. It also goes well with carbohydrate-rich foods.
Signs of a lack of tryptophan in the body
- irritability;
- bad dream;
- fast fatiguability;
- alcohol addiction;
- frequent headaches;
- problems with cardiovascular system;
- manifestations of PMS;
- increased spasms of the coronary arteries.
Signs of excess tryptophan in the body
To detect an excess of tryptophan, it is necessary to donate blood for the level of 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid. The presence of large amounts of tryptophan in the blood can lead to the formation of a tumor Bladder!
Tryptophan for beauty and health
Since tryptophan is one of the most important natural amino acids, its use has a beneficial effect not only on internal organs and human systems, but also on his external appearance. And since appearance plays a significant role in ensuring a good mood, regular consumption of foods containing tryptophan can be equated with a trip to a beauty salon or even a trip to the Maldives!
Tryptophan(L-Tryptophan or L-Tryptophan) is an essential amino acid, because the body itself does not produce it, and we can get this substance only with food. It is a hormone of "good mood", since it is from it that serotonin is produced. In fact, tryptophan is the chemical basis for human joy. Also, tryptophan is considered to be an assistant in the synthesis of niacin and melatonin.
With the help of experiments on laboratory animals, it was shown that the low content of this amino acid in the blood of the test subjects affects the reduction of life by almost one and a half times. Recommended for people with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and obesity, addicted to nicotine or alcohol, people with depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and just anyone who wants to maintain their health.
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Daily intake of tryptophan
The norm of tryptophan for humans in various sources varies from 1 to 2-2.5 grams per day. It is worth noting that this amino acid tends to accumulate in the body, and if on one day you “did not get enough” the norm, then it will definitely be replenished the next day.
The consequences of a lack of tryptophan in the body
Signs of a lack of this amino acid are headache, despondency, close to a depressive state, nervousness, excessive fatigue, cravings for sweets, alcohol and tobacco, insomnia, lack of concentration and rapid weight gain.
The consequences of an excess of tryptophan in the body
An excess of tryptophan in the human body can lead to bladder swelling. But do not be afraid of such an unpleasant prospect - an excess of this protein component is extremely rare and is recorded by specialists.
Useful properties of tryptophan
In people who regularly consume the required amount of this amino acid, the level of serotonin in the blood is regulated, which contributes to an easier course of headaches with migraines or their absence at all. Women who are not devoid of tryptophan experience PMS more easily. In general, the number of strokes decreases, memory, performance and performance of a person improve. He has an even skin tone, looks prettier, younger, fresher and happier.
Tryptophan is responsible for the synthesis of melatonin, which allows a person to get enough sleep and feel more alert throughout the day. As you can see, you should not ignore this amino acid in your diet.
Contraindications and harm to tryptophan.
This amino acid is very important for the human body, and cases of its deficiency in the blood prevail over cases of excess. A contraindication to taking tryptophan or limiting it can only be an individual intolerance to a person or certain diseases that are detected by the attending physician.
Tryptophan-rich foods
A large amount of tryptophan is found in chia seeds (you can also find the name "Spanish sage"), cheese, soybeans, pine nuts, walnuts and pumpkin nuts, sesame seeds, mushrooms, oatmeal. Tryptophan is rich in bananas, dairy products (cottage cheese, yoghurts) and milk, seafood, figs, meat.
You can also replenish the tryptophan norm with the help of special drugs. The main thing is to choose it correctly among the huge variety of pharmacological products.
For a complete list of foods containing Tryptophan watch
Daily Value: 1000 - 2500 mg.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid needed to make proteins.
Presented in protein foods of animal and plant origin. The only way to replenish its reserves in the human body is through properly selected food products.
Meaning for a person
This substance has an incredibly wide range of positive effects on the body. Tryptophan is used to combat insomnia and sleep rhythm disturbances, and is used for depression and anxiety. It has also been observed that having the right amount of the amino acid relieves the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, makes it easier to quit smoking, and helps people who play sports improve their results.
And despite the fact that a person is unable to synthesize tryptophan on his own, this substance is extremely necessary for normal life. For example, the production of vitamin B3 (niacin) without tryptophan would stop completely. It would also be problematic for the body to produce serotonin - the so-called "hormone of happiness", which is of particular importance for the functioning of the brain and nervous system. In addition, it is on the concentration of serotonin that our mood, quality of sleep, the level of pain threshold and even the correct peristalsis of the intestines and immunity to various kinds of inflammation depend.
In addition, tryptophan is an excellent aid in the fight against hyperactivity in children, stress, excess weight and excessive appetite. Most people with migraines have been found to have abnormally low tryptophan levels.
Other functions of the substance include:
- activation of growth hormone;
- beneficial effect on the heart, by neutralizing the effects of stress;
- partial protection of the body from the harmful effects of nicotine;
- prevention of recurrent bulimia.
Interesting research
- Grumpiness
Scientists conducted an interesting experiment with the participation of people who identified themselves as "grumpy". Participants in the experiment were given 100 mg of tryptophan three times a day, and soon they were able to record positive results. People became more compliant, their behavior changed to be more pleasant for others, the experimental subjects decreased their urge to quarrelsomeness. But 500 mg of the substance, taken once, relieves adolescents from increased physical aggressiveness.
- Insomnia
Sleep disturbance is the cause of irritability and moodiness in many people. In the 1970s, it was believed that tryptophan, taken in a dose of 1-5 grams, helped to improve the quality of sleep. But then it was found that 250 mg of the amino acid is enough to enter the deep sleep stage. Further studies have shown that 1 g of the substance helps to effectively fight insomnia, significantly shortens the time to fall asleep, reducing wakefulness in the evening. Tryptophan has also been shown to be effective against obstructive sleep apnea.
- Spitefulness
It is already known that a bad mood, depression and anger are most often the result of a lack of serotonin, which means tryptophan. But there is one more curious fact. It turns out that an amino acid deficiency can affect facial expressions, causing a more evil facial expression.
Digestibility
After absorption of tryptophan from food, the body converts it into the form of 5-hydroxytrophan, after which - into the hormone serotonin, which is responsible for the exchange of impulses between nerve cells. But the complete metabolism of a substance is possible only with adequate doses of vitamins B6, B9 and C.
Daily requirement
The daily allowance for tryptophan is determined based on the person's age and state of health. And on this issue, the opinions of experts were divided. Some argue that the need for an amino acid in a healthy adult body is about 1 g. Others are recommended daily dose determined by the formula: 4 mg tryptophan per kilogram of weight. Thus, a 70-kilogram person should receive approximately 280 mg of the substance daily. But both of them are unanimous in the opinion that the reserves of a useful substance should be scooped from natural food, and not from pharmacological preparations. By the way, there is evidence that the consumption of carbohydrates and proteins at the same time increases the amount of absorbed tryptophan.
People with all sorts of mental disorders, migraines, sleep disorders, low pain threshold, cardiac diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, anorexia, bulimia, and alcohol addicts should be extremely attentive to the use of the necessary daily allowances for tryptophan (and even a little more).
High doses of the amino acid can be dangerous for people with Price, Tad, or Hartnup syndromes, or those with tryptophan accumulation disorders.
What does a lack of amino acids promise?
First, and most importantly, tryptophan deficiency entails a lack of serotonin and vitamin B3, the production of which directly depends on this amino acid. Hence - nervousness, sleep disturbances, PMS. Secondly, insufficient intake of tryptophan against the background of a lack of magnesium causes spasms of the coronary artery. Dermatitis, digestive problems, diarrhea, and mental disorders can also signal an amino acid deficiency. In addition, a lack of substance can cause cardiac diseases, and also cause an unhealthy addiction to alcohol and fatigue.
Dangers of overdose
Despite the many positive effects natural tryptophan has on the human body, there are some caveats about taking the substance as a dietary supplement or as a pill. Overdose can cause heartburn, stomach pain, belching, flatulence, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and bladder swelling. Among other possible side effects- headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, muscle weakness and dry mouth.
The maximum allowable safe dose of tryptophan that does not cause side effects is considered to be 4.5 grams. When consumed in excess of these norms, in combination with antidepressants, it can lead to the so-called "serotonin syndrome" (delirium, convulsions, high body temperature, sometimes - a coma). Tryptophan should also be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease.
Laboratory blood tests can determine the real amount of tryptophan in the body, in particular, for an indicator of the content of 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid.
Food sources
Tryptophan is a traditional ingredient in most protein foods.
There are amino acid reserves in chocolate, oats, dates, milk, yoghurts, cottage cheese, red meat, eggs, fish, poultry, sesame seeds, chickpeas, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, bananas, peanuts, corn. You can also replenish the amount of amino acids from asparagus, beet tops, chard, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, mushrooms, watercress, spicy herbs, radishes, ginger, pumpkin, carrots, seaweed.
But perhaps the most popular product traditionally associated with tryptophan is turkey. The researchers were divided into 2 groups: some claim that the meat of this bird is extremely rich in tryptophan, others reject it. But recently, the controversy seems to have come to an end: the parties have agreed that there is as much tryptophan in turkey meat as in most other birds.
| Seeds, nuts | 567 |
| Soy products | 575 |
| Cheese | 571 |
| Meat | 415 |
| Bird | 404 |
| A fish | 335 |
| Seafood | 330 |
| Bran, sprouted grains | 335 |
| Eggs | 167 |
| Legumes | 115 |
And if you analyze each category of the named products, then among seeds and nuts, sesame seeds, sunflowers, pistachios, cashews, almonds and hazelnuts can boast of the highest concentration of the substance. Among soy products, it is better to give preference to tofu, while parmesan, cheddar and mozzarella are the favorites in the cheese category. While that doesn't mean you shouldn't neglect varieties like Edam, Gouda or Swiss - they also contain tryptophan.
Rabbit is the meat most saturated with amino acids (100 grams of the product contains more than 130% of the recommended daily allowance). Somewhat less substance, but also quite a lot, is found in pork, goat meat and veal. Among poultry meat, chickens, turkey, chickens (wings and legs) are in the lead.
When choosing fish, it is better to opt for halibut, salmon, trout or mackerel. But you can take everything seafood. Crawfish, octopus, shrimp, lobster, crayfish, oysters and scallops, even in small portions, will satisfy the daily need for tryptophan.
The most useful grains are wheat germ, buckwheat, oatmeal and wheat bran. The best legumes are different types of beans and lentils.
If you decide to cook something from chicken eggs, wanting to increase the level of serotonin, know: soft-boiled eggs, scrambled eggs and scrambled eggs contain a little more tryptophan than hard-boiled ones.
Interaction with other drugs
It is important to be careful when taking tryptophan with antidepressants, which also increase serotonin levels. An excess of this hormone can cause health problems, including the development of heart disease.
Taking tryptophan while sedated can cause excessive sleepiness.
For a sufficient formation of amino acids, the body should not be deficient in vitamin B6, ascorbic and folic acids, and magnesium.
Probably, most of us had to deal with irritability and bad mood, which, at first glance, had no logical explanation. But in fact, everything is much simpler - the diet lacks foods rich in tryptophan. Now you know this, as well as where to look for the sources of your happiness. After all, sometimes happiness is really - in healthy food. So why not cook something delicious from the above products right now? And may happiness be with you!
In our article, we will take a closer look at what an essential amino acid is. tryptophan... We will tell you how to overcome depression using natural vitamins and eating right. Everyone knows that healthy sleep is extremely important for health, but most people have not even heard of the unique substance that makes us sleep well. Also, with its deficiency, performance decreases and mood worsens.
The amino acid in its optimal natural form and dosage is found in beekeeping products such as pollen, royal jelly and drone brood, which are part of many natural vitamin and mineral complexes of the Parapharm company: Leveton P, Elton P, Leveton Forte, Elton Forte, Apitonus P, Osteomed , Osteo-Vit, Osteomed Forte, Eromax, Memo-Vit and Cardioton. That is why we pay so much attention to each natural substance, talking about its importance and benefits for a healthy body.
What is tryptophan substance:
chemical properties of amino acid
If you want to understand what kind of substance tryptophan is, you need to consider a group of essential amino acids - compounds that cannot be produced in the body and are supplied with food. For normal development and growth, a person must receive these substances within the daily norm. This group includes tryptophan.
In addition, it occupies an important place among proteinogenic amino acids, necessary for the formation of protein. It has been established that this substance is found in all living organisms. It is a part of many proteins, but most of all tryptophan in fibrinogen, as well as blood globulins.
In nature, this compound exists in two isomeric forms: L and D, as well as in the form of a racemate. Note that the first of them is the most useful for a person. In its pure form, L-tryptophan is a white to yellowish powder that tastes bitter. Its board temperature is 283 degrees Celsius. This amino acid is readily soluble in water, worse in ethanol. An important chemical property of tryptophan is that when interacting with a number of substances, it gives color reactions. Note that this is an unstable amino acid that easily oxidizes. It is rapidly degraded during acidic hydrolysis of protein.
What is the fault of the irreplaceable
amino acid tryptophan?
Many do not know that tryptophan was able to isolate in 1901 such chemists as F. Hopkins and S. Kohl from casein. But interest in this substance aroused among scientists only by the 60s of the last century. After many experiments, it turned out that the essential amino acid tryptophan has a beneficial effect on the nervous system. He was called one of the best antidepressants at the time. Biochemists have suggested that the aggressiveness of the Indians of South America - the Mayans and the Aztecs - was due to the predominance of corn in their diet, which is low in tryptophan.
Very soon after such publications, tryptophan and preparations containing it became extremely popular in Western countries... They were available over the counter at any pharmacy. The benefits of the essential amino acid, such as efficiency and low cost, have steadily increased the sales figures for tryptophan. But already in the mid-80s, the reputation of this substance received a serious blow. In particular, in 1989 in the United States broke out "Tryptophan scandal" the echoes of which are still heard. Then more than a thousand Americans fell ill with a serious disorder - the syndrome of eosinophilia-myalgia. The patients had severe muscle and joint pain, fever, shortness of breath and weakness.
As a result, 38 patients died from this disease. In 1991, the country's government imposed a complete ban on the sale of tryptophan drugs. Later, as a result of the investigation, it turned out that only the products of the Japanese company Showa Denko had led to such disastrous results. Moreover, it was not the drug itself that was to blame for the disease, but the violation of its manufacturing technology. In the early 2000s, tryptophan appeared on the market, but the stain on its reputation has not been laundered. Many nutritionists in the United States still believe that taking large amounts of this substance is hazardous to health.
Unique properties.
The value of amino acids for the body
As we said above, tryptophan is an essential amino acid that cannot be produced by the body. Its regular intake with food is especially important when you consider the importance of the amino acid for the body. This substance plays a huge role in the functioning of the endocrine and nervous systems. In particular, it is necessary for such an important physiological process as sleep.
In addition, it is important for relaxation and rest, which means that with its help we will always look good. Tryptophan can be called a natural antidepressant, thanks to it we feel calm and harmonious. Why? It's simple: it is responsible for the production of many substances important for the body in the brain. First, it is niacin(vitamin B3). Secondly, serotonin, the most important neurotransmitter, which is called the "hormone of happiness." It is the main fighter against depression in our body, which creates a sense of emotional well-being.
It is important that tryptophan is also required for the formation of melatonin. It is melatonin that promotes rapid falling asleep and the duration of sleep. By the way, serotonin is produced during the daytime, while melatonin is produced at night. Also, this amino acid is necessary for the production of: kynurenine, quinolinic acid, which are essential for normal growth and development.
Let's highlight other important functions of a substance in the body:
- participates in protein synthesis;
- helps control appetite;
- enhances immunity;
- takes part in the production of growth hormone;
- normalizes blood pressure;
- increases the pain threshold;
- effective for hyperactivity syndrome in children;
- helps with chronic fatigue syndrome.
In addition, we can say that taking tryptophan drugs improves the condition of patients with cardiovascular diseases. Also, the substance is suitable for the complex treatment of alcoholism, since it reduces the toxic effects of ethanol and relaxes the body during withdrawal symptoms. This substance is especially beneficial for women as it relieves PMS. It is effective in treating obesity as it helps to reduce hunger.
Daily rate
The body must receive this amino acid in the required quantities, otherwise it will act as a limiting substance. This means that its deficiency can become a factor inhibiting the development of the body. Moreover, the body will take the necessary compound from internal reserves - muscle cells. It is especially important to prevent such a development of events in adolescents whose body has not been fully formed. According to most scholars, daily tryptophan- 0.25 g. Of course, with intense training, this figure will grow.
It is believed that it is best not to consume more than 3-4 grams of the amino acid at a time. It is also necessary to take into account the genetic component of the issue. Some need a little more of this substance for normal protein metabolism, others a little less. To determine how much tryptophan you need, you can use this formula: multiply 3.5 mg by your body weight.
What products contain
essential amino acid tryptophan
As we said earlier, the main source of this substance is protein. At the same time, the essential amino acid tryptophan is found in both plant and animal foods. To the delight of vegetarians, we will say that many "humane" foods are extremely rich in this compound. Below is a list of healthy dishes, the number next to the name indicates the content of the substance in milligrams per 100 grams of the product.
Animal food:
- chicken -350;
- turkey - 480;
- veal - 250;
- beef - 220;
- pork -190;
- eggs - 200;
- red caviar - 960;
- salmon - 220;
- Dutch cheese - 790;
- cottage cheese - 210;
Plant food:
- oatmeal - 160;
- soybeans - 600;
- buckwheat - 180;
- peas - 260;
- sunflower seed - 300;
- pine nuts - 420;
- almonds - 630;
- peanuts –750;
Scientists have found that the most high amino acid content in a rare animal - a sea lion (2589 mg). All poultry is rich in this product.
Lack of tryptophan in the body
Note that the lack of tryptophan in the body is easy enough to identify. Let's name a few of the main characteristic symptoms:
- fast fatiguability;
- persistent headaches;
- reduced performance;
- unstable and shallow sleep;
- disorders of the cardiovascular system;
- irritability;
- poor concentration;
- growth retardation in children;
- a tendency to overeat.
- spasms of the coronary arteries.
It is noticed that the lack of vitamin B3 is associated with a lack of tryptophan in the body. Also, some scientists believe that people who are prone to aggression have little of this important substance in their blood, and as a result, a deficiency of the "happiness hormone", serotonin, develops.
Excess tryptophan in the body.
Amino acid overdose
It must be said that an excess of tryptophan in the body is a rather rare occurrence, but there are several diseases that are accompanied by the accumulation of this amino acid. In this regard, it is necessary to mention familial hypertryptophanemia, which occurs due to metabolic disorders. Its consequences are sad: joint pain, visual impairment, developmental delay. Also worth mentioning is Tada syndrome, which most often leads to dwarfism. This disorder develops when tryptophan is not converted to kynurenine.
Tryptophan should be taken with caution by people who suffer from diabetes mellitus, cataracts, achlorhydria. It is necessary to name the symptoms of an amino acid overdose: vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, flatulence. In rare cases, serotonic syndrome occurs, accompanied by agitation, anxiety, lacrimation.
What tryptophan works with
It has been proven that this amino acid is absorbed only with B vitamins, magnesium and zinc. In the course of a number of experiments, it was found that tryptophan is combined with carbohydrate foods. So it gets to the brain much faster, where it starts producing serotonin. Therefore, it is effective to consume this substance along with oatmeal or fruit. You can drink it with water or juice; combination with milk and other protein products is not recommended. Note that tryptophan enhances the action of antipsychotics, anxiolytics, alcohol.
The use of amino acids in
industry and medicine
In order for you to have a complete idea of what kind of substance tryptophan is, you need to talk about the use of the amino acid in industry. It is successfully used in pharmaceuticals for the production of food supplements and medicines. The main goals of these drugs are to combat depression and normalize sleep. Proven to be a unique substance can help even with severe depression and chronic insomnia. In such cases, the dosage of tryptophan preparations is high and reaches 3 g.
In addition, this amino acid is used in the production of animal feed. The supplement obtained from it is necessary for agriculture - it helps cattle gain weight, improves the absorption of food.
Tryptophan in sports
It must be admitted that tryptophan in sports is used much less often than, say, BCAAs or L-arginine. . But this does not mean at all that athletes do not need this substance. Quite the opposite, it is this amino acid that is required for the production of growth hormone, which triggers muscle growth by accelerating protein synthesis. Perhaps, greatest value Tryptophan is beneficial for bodybuilders as it helps control appetite during the "drying out" period.
Taking tryptophan alone hardly makes sense for most athletes. Natural vitamin complexes will be of much greater benefit to them. In this regard, it is worth highlighting food additive"Leveton Forte", containing such components as drone brood, pollen pollen, leuzea root. It is the drone brood that contains the amino acids necessary for the athlete, including tryptophan. All components of this vitamin complex successfully complement each other, increasing endurance and increasing efficiency.
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Vladimir Manannikov
Tryptophan is a type of amino acid that is essential for the human body.
The lack of it in the body has a bad effect on health, sleep is disturbed, mood disappears, a certain lethargy and inertia in everyday life is felt.
Tryptophan is a basic element for the production of serotonin –hormone of joy and happiness, which contributes to a good mood in every person. Tryptophan is useful for children with hyperactivity, it also controls body weight, normalizing the synthesis of growth hormone.
The benefits of the amino acid tryptophan for the human body are considerable. It helps to regulate appetite, normalize sleep, and improve mood. The daily requirement of the human body for this element is not so big - 1 gram.
With all this, it is advisable to get tryptophan from natural products, and not in the form of drugs or various kinds of supplements. Many foods contain tryptophan.
Most often, this amino acid in their arsenal contains plant products: cottage cheese, cheese, milk, yogurt, soy, bananas, oatmeal, mushrooms, dates, walnuts, peanuts, sesame seeds, pine nuts, red meat, fish, seeds, legumes, eggs , red and brown rice.
The need for this amino acid lies in the fact that it often takes part in the structure of the protein, which is so necessary for our body. As a result, it affects the nervous and vascular systems the human body as well as the heart.
Not getting enough tryptophan can lead to poor growth, weight loss (accumulation), irritability, depression, anxiety, short temper, inability to concentrate, insomnia, poor appetite and memory.
With a lack of tryptophan, the following symptoms are observed:
Anxiety;
a state of depression;
slight irritability;
frequent headaches;
anxiety;
inability to concentrate;
increased feeling of tension;
special sensitivity to all kinds of pain;
rapid weight gain (or, on the contrary, loss) of weight;
sleep problems;
stunted growth in children;
excessive passion for "bad" foods - alcohol, cigarettes, very fatty foods, a huge amount of sweets.
You must be extremely careful with the use of foods containing tryptophan. The thing is that an excess of it in the body has very bad consequences. Although it is extremely difficult to do this, it is still possible to overdo it with the concentration of tryptophan. Especially when you are taking it in the form of medications rather than extracting it from natural products.
Many studies have shown that excess tryptophan leads to muscle and joint pain, fever, general weakness of the whole body, and swelling in the legs and arms. In some cases, even the development of a tumor in the bladder was recorded.
Daily use of foods that are rich in tryptophan in your diet has a good effect not only on health, but also on the entire human body - its condition, appearance.
You will forget about chronic diseases ,which are associated with the heart and blood vessels,reduce the risk of stroke, you will sleep well, the seasonal feeling of fatigue will disappear.
Tryptophan can also help relieve PMS. But this is not only good for women. This amino acid also has a beneficial effect on external beauty - a healthy complexion, shine of hair, strong nails, vigor and energy of the whole organism.
Considering how much useful, necessary and good tryptophan does for the health and general condition of a person, you need to know which foods contain the most of it. This will allow you to include them in your diet in order to maximize your saturation with this amino acid.
Most richest in tryptophan red and black caviar, Dutch cheese, peanut, almond.
The following foods contain about 50% tryptophan of the RDA:
rabbit and turkey meat,
halva,
squid,
sunflower seeds,
pistachios,
hen,
herring,
veal,
peas,
beans.
Less than 50% of the RDA:
beef,
cod,
mutton,
cottage cheese,
chicken eggs,
chocolate,
pork,
zander,
buckwheat,
mushrooms,
dried apricots,
mackerel,
pearl barley.
About 10% of the RDA or less:
prunes,
greenery,
beet,
raisin,
carrot,
onion,
milk,
tomatoes,
oranges,
peaches,
Cherry,
raspberries,
honey,
persimmon,
cranberry,
pears,
apples,
pineapples.
This does not mean at all that one should only overeat with caviar, peanuts and almonds. Even those products in which the percentage is very small are very useful and necessary in the daily diet.
For example, milk drunk at night will give you the opportunity to have a great rest and sleep. Oatmeal for breakfast or yogurt, various cheeses - the key to a wonderful, full of vitality day.
Therefore, eat a variety of foods - they are all good for your health!
Thank you
The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. A specialist consultation is required!
Tryptophan is an irreplaceable amino acid, which is necessary for the synthesis of proteins in all cells of the body, as well as the formation of two substances - serotonin and melatonin, which actively influence the processes in the central nervous system.Chemical formula of tryptophan
The amino acid tryptophan has the following chemical formula:
The formula can be located in the form shown above, or in a different orientation, for example, six- and five-membered rings at the bottom, and the chain of the radical (CH 2 - CH (NH 2) - COOH) looks up. The formula can be positioned as it is most convenient for various theoretical calculations, measurements, etc.
What is tryptophan?
Tryptophan is an amino acid that is needed for the synthesis of its own proteins in every cell of the human body. Since tryptophan is not synthesized in the human body, this amino acid is one of the irreplaceable ones that must be supplied with food so that there is no deficiency and, as a result, various diseases.As a component of proteins, tryptophan is included in many protein molecules, including fibrinogen (a protein that ensures the formation of a blood clot on a damaged vessel), gamma globulins (antibodies to microbes produced by B-lymphocytes), casein, and others.
By its chemical structure, tryptophan belongs to aromatic amino acids that contain aromatic cyclic indoles. Due to the peculiarities of its structure, tryptophan is unstable in an acidic medium (destroyed by acids), it is poorly soluble in water, moderately soluble in ethyl alcohol when heated, and insoluble in diethyl ether.
In addition, there are two optical isomers (atomic conformations) of the tryptophan molecule - levorotatory and dextrorotatory. The levogyrate isomer is called L-tryptophan where the letter L stands for "left". And the dextrorotatory isomer is called D-tryptophan, where the letter D, respectively, means "right". The left- and dextrorotatory isomers differ from each other only in the arrangement of the amino group (NH 2). So, if the tryptophan formula is positioned as shown in the figure below, then it can be seen that the amino group is located on the left, and the UN group is on the right. This arrangement is called L-tryptophan. If the amino group is on the right and the UN is on the left, then it will be D-tryptophan.
Usually, a mixture of levorotatory and dextrorotatory isomers is present in solution, but only L-tryptophan has biological activity. This explains the fact that L-tryptophan is used as a component for dietary supplements or as a drug in research.
Under the abbreviation 5-HTP-tryptophan or simply 5-tryptophan This refers to a substance called 5-hydroxytryptophan, which is formed in a chain of biochemical reactions during the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin. Hydroxytryptophan is also an amino acid and is involved in protein synthesis in the cells of all human organs. Currently, in Europe and the United States, 5-hydroxytryptophan is sold as a dietary supplement that improves sleep, improves mood, reduces the severity of depression, etc.
The role of tryptophan in the human body
The biological role of tryptophan in the human body is enormous. In addition to the fact that tryptophan is part of a large number of proteins, which are synthesized defective in the absence of this amino acid, it is also a precursor for the formation of serotonin, melatonin and niacin (vitamin PP). To understand the biological role of tryptophan, it is necessary to know its biochemical transformations in the human body. Dietary tryptophan is primarily used for the synthesis of proteins and melatonin. The remaining small portion of tryptophan can be used in three biochemical pathways, such as:
- Cynurenine way- in the course of a cascade of biochemical reactions, oxidation and destruction of six- and five-membered rings-rings occurs with the formation of kynurenic and anthranilic acids. Further, these acids enter into other reactions, during which nicotinic acid and acetyl-S-CoA are formed.
- Serotonin pathway- in the course of biochemical reactions, 5-hydroxytryptophan, serotonin and melatonin are formed.
- Indole path- tryptophan is destroyed with the formation of indole derivatives, which are then excreted in the urine.
For example, a deficiency of tryptophan in food does not allow the body to synthesize high-grade proteins, as a result of which the immune response and blood clotting are impaired, since tryptophan is a component of gamma globulins and fibrinogen. And without tryptophan, gamma globulins are defective, as a result of which they cannot fully fulfill their function of destroying pathogenic microbes and infected cells, which is manifested by immunodeficiency with frequent, protracted, severely ongoing chronic infections. Fibrinogen without tryptophan also turns out to be defective, as a result of which, if a vessel is damaged, the blood clot that closes the hole turns out to be defective, bleeding does not stop for a long time, etc.
Also, with a deficiency of tryptophan in food, a sufficient amount of vitamin PP (nicotinic acid) is not synthesized in the liver and intestines, as a result of which there is an increased need for this vitamin. And the lack of niacin, in turn, leads to disorders of the thyroid gland and pellagra - a disease manifested in the form of dermatitis, diarrhea, neuritis, paralysis of the limbs and dementia. The introduction of tryptophan into the diet of a patient with pellagra leads to a cure of the disease.
If tryptophan ingested with food is mainly used for the synthesis of niacin, then very little of it remains in the brain cells for the formation of serotonin and melatonin, which leads to a deficiency of serotonin and melatonin. And the lack of serotonin and melatonin, in turn, leads to depression, mental disorders, anxiety, sleep disorders and other mental illnesses. Since serotonin cannot penetrate from the blood into the brain tissue, it is useless to enter it into the body in the form of pills, injections, etc. Serotonin and melatonin, which ensure normal brain function, must be synthesized directly in brain cells from tryptophan. Accordingly, insufficient supply of tryptophan to the brain leads to a deficiency of both serotonin and melatonin.
However, an increase in the level of serotonin and melatonin in brain tissues when taking tryptophan is observed only up to a certain level, and an increase in the dosage of tryptophan does not lead to an even greater production of serotonin and melatonin. On the contrary, all the excess tryptophan that enters the body goes to the synthesis of nicotinic acid or decomposes to indole compounds and is excreted by the kidneys. Thus, it is clear that tryptophan should be taken in small doses to increase serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain. Therefore, in the treatment with tryptophan, a huge role is played by the selection of individual dosages that would provide the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin in the maximum possible amount and do not burden the liver and intestines with the need to transform the excess amino acid into vitamin PP and indole compounds. It has been found that taking too much tryptophan even exacerbates the symptoms of mental disorders.
The effect of tryptophan for the treatment of depression is especially strong when it is used in combination with antidepressants of the group of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (for example, Iproniazide, Nialamide, Selegilin, Garmanil, Moclobemide and others), since in such cases the increase in serotonin concentration is more pronounced than when using tryptophan alone or antidepressants only.
The intake of tryptophan by healthy people who do not suffer from mental disorders leads to lengthening of sleep and normalization of the sleep-wake regime. Taking tryptophan has an excellent effect in psychogenic sleep disorders (against the background of stress, emotional distress, etc.), and the achieved improvement remains even after the drug with tryptophan is discontinued.
In practically healthy people, 5-HTP-tryptophan prolongs sleep and makes it more calm and deep. In addition, the substance reduces appetite, thereby indirectly contributing to weight loss. But excessive intake of 5-HTP-tryptophan can lead to anorexia.
What foods contain tryptophan?
Tryptophan is found in both plant and animal proteins. The largest quantities tryptophan are found in hard varieties cheese, cottage cheese, milk, yogurt, fish, meat, mushrooms, oats, dates, peanuts, sesame seeds, pine nuts and soybeans. The minimum amount of tryptophan is found in corn, so the consumption of only this cereal without the introduction of meat, fish and dairy products into the diet leads to the development of pellagra, outbreaks of which were recorded in southern Europe in the 18th century, when the population was forced to eat almost exclusively corn. In general, plant foods contain less tryptophan than animals. But the content of this amino acid in meat is uneven - so, in the connective tissue (veins, films of meat, etc.) it is not, but in the muscle fibers themselves (pure pulp) - a lot.
Below is a list of foods that are high in tryptophan. Moreover, in the list, the products are given in descending order of the amount of tryptophan (the higher the product is to the top of the list, the more amino acids it contains):
- Red caviar of salmon fish;
- Black caviar of sturgeon fish;
- Hard cheese of the Dutch type;
- Peanut;
- Soya beans;
- Processed cheeses;
- Pine nuts;
- Halva;
- Rabbit meat;
- Turkey meat;
- Squid meat;
- Horse mackerel;
- Sunflower seeds (seeds);
- Pistachios;
- Chicken's meat;
- Herring;
- Cow meat (veal and beef);
- Salmon;
- Cod;
- Mutton;
- Cottage cheese (with normal, not low fat content);
- Chicken eggs;
- Pollock;
- Pork meat;
- Fat-free cottage cheese;
- Carp;
- Halibut;
- Zander;
- Millet;
- Sea bass;
- Mackerel;
- Oatmeal;
- Dried apricots;
- Mushrooms;
- Barley porridge;
- Pearl barley;
- Wheat flour bakery products;
- Fried and boiled potatoes;
- Dried dates;
- Boiled rice;
- Bakery products made from rye flour;
- Prunes;
- Parsley and dill;
- Raisin;
- White cabbage;
- Bananas;
- Onion;
- Milk;
- Kefir;
- Cherry;
- Zucchini;
- Pineapples.
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What pharmaceutical preparations contain tryptophan?
Tryptophan is not sold separately in Russia; it is included in dietary supplements sold through pharmacies or specialized stores. So, the following dietary supplements with tryptophan are present on the domestic pharmaceutical market:- NeuroDose produced by NPO PharmVILAR;
- Calm formula Tryptophan produced by Evalar.
Dietary supplements do not have strict indications for use; they can be used as an adjunct to medications by people suffering from mental illness, as well as taken by relatively healthy patients to prevent or improve general well-being (sleep, mood).
Tryptophan is also found in specialized medicinal products intended for parenteral nutrition and diet enrichment, such as:
- Aminoven;
- Aminoven Infant;
- Aminosol-Neo;
- Hepasol-Neo;
- Kabiven;
- Ketoaminol;
- Ketosteril;
- Lakzenova;
- Moriamin Forte;
- Nephrotect.
There is also a number of drugs that contain a combination of amino acids, including tryptophan (for example, Tsitovir, Timogen, Bestim, Pankragen, etc.). But these are drugs that have clear indications and contraindications for use, they cannot be taken for prophylaxis or against the background of relative health to improve sleep, mood, etc.
Thus, people who do not have serious mental disorders, but want to improve their mental state (normalize sleep, improve mood, eliminate anxiety, etc.), should take tryptophan in the form of dietary supplements available on the domestic pharmaceutical market.
As for 5-НТР-tryptophan, in the domestic pharmaceutical market there is a small number of dietary supplements containing this substance - these are 5-НТР and 5-НТР-L-Tyrosine produced by NOW International. You need to know that in Russia dietary supplements with hydroxytryptophan can also be sold in specialized sports nutrition stores. Also, dietary supplements with 5-HTP-tryptophan can be ordered at iherb.com. In Europe and the United States, 5-HTP-tryptophan supplements are sold under the trade names Cincofarm, Levothym, Levotonine, Tript-OH, etc. However, nowhere is hydroxytryptophan included in the composition of drugs, but is produced exclusively in the form of dietary supplements.
Possible negative consequences and side effects of use
You should know that tryptophan as side effects can cause a decrease in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite up to anorexia. In addition, when taken in the daytime, it causes drowsiness, and when taken in the evening, it only improves sleep.You should also know that the concomitant use of tryptophan in combination with antidepressants (Amitriptyline, Alprazolam, Dextromethorphan, Iproniazide, Nialamide, Selegiline, Garmanil, Moclobemide, etc.), Levodopa, Fenfluramine, Meperidine, Carbamazone also means (LSD, Ecstasy, Cocaine, Amphetamine, MDMA, etc.) can cause serotonin syndrome due to the accumulation of excess serotonin in the brain tissues.
Serotonin syndrome initially manifests itself as bubbling and colic in the abdomen, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, shaking limbs, joint pain, restlessness, muscle hypertonicity, muscle twitching (tics). As the condition progresses, a manic-like state occurs with a jump in thoughts, speech acceleration, sleep disturbances, increased motor activity, confusion of consciousness and, possibly, disorientation in space and time. In a malignant course, serotonin syndrome can lead to the appearance of profuse sweating (the patient literally bathes in sweat), a sharp increase in body temperature, masklike face and acute cardiovascular disorders. Usually, serotonin syndrome can be stopped, but with a malignant course, a fatal outcome is possible.
Separately, it should be said about the epidemic of eosinophilia-myalgia that swept in the United States at the end of the 80s of the last century, which manifested itself in severe pain and weakness in the muscles and disorders of hematopoiesis. The epidemic of this obscure disease was associated with the intake of tryptophan from the Japanese company Showa Denko, since all patients took tryptophan from this particular manufacturer. It is estimated that about 60,000 people were affected, of which 1,500 became disabled and about 30 died. An investigation was carried out, during which it was revealed that the tryptophan of the Japanese company contains more than 60 impurities. All of these impurities have been tested, but none have been able to cause anything similar to eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. Then the effect of taking large doses of tryptophan was evaluated, thinking that this could be the cause of the eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. But taking tryptophan in huge doses did not cause illness. Then I had to admit that the eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome was caused by an unknown factor, but it is associated with the intake of tryptophan, since all patients drank this amino acid as a dietary supplement.
Experimental studies performed on rats have shown that a diet low in tryptophan increases lifespan but also increases mortality at a young age.
As for 5-HTP-tryptophan, this substance has not been studied in as much detail as tryptophan. However, there are reports that 5-HTP-tryptophan can cause vomiting and diarrhea as side effects. Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome has been reported in some people taking 5-HTP-tryptophan. In addition, an overdose of hydroxytryptophan can damage the heart valves, and when taking 5-HTP-tryptophan in combination with antidepressants, serotonin syndrome can develop. If 5-HTP-tryptophan is used in combination with carbidopa, it can cause severe nausea and vomiting, as well as scleroderma.
Tryptophan Calm Formula from Evalar
After in the section above we have provided basic information about tryptophan, its biological role, applications and possible complications when using it, in this part we will tell you about the dietary supplement with tryptophan most often sold in Russia and the countries of the former USSR, which is called "Calm-Tryptophan Formula" or simply "Tryptophan", and is produced by Evalar. Composition and description
The dietary supplement "Calm Formula-Tryptophan" is produced by Evalar in the only dosage form Are capsules for oral administration. The capsules themselves are painted white, and inside there is a powdery content. The product goes on sale in carton packs of 15 or 60 capsules.Each capsule contains as active ingredients:
- Tryptophan - 1000 mg (corresponds to 125% of the daily requirement, but does not exceed the maximum allowable intake);
- Pantothenic acid - 12 mg (corresponds to 200% of the daily requirement, but does not exceed the maximum permissible levels of consumption);
- Pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B 6) - 4 mg (corresponds to 200% of the daily requirement, but does not exceed the maximum permissible levels of consumption).
The shelf life of Evalar Tryptophan capsules is three years from the date of release. Store the product in a cool place at an air temperature not exceeding 25 o C.
Positive effects and action
The positive effects of taking dietary supplements Tryptophan Evalar are due to the action of its constituent components.Thus, tryptophan, which is an essential amino acid, serves as a substrate for the formation of serotonin and melatonin in the brain. Serotonin is formed from tryptophan during the daytime, and is called the "hormone of happiness", as it provides a good mood, calmness, emotional uplift, a sense of joy, happiness, high mental and physical performance. Also, serotonin improves cognitive activity, endurance and self-control under stress, increases self-esteem, increases endurance and muscle strength. In athletes, serotonin contributes to lengthening workouts due to the fact that fatigue is not perceived to such a high degree. It has now been proven that in people who are depressed and depressed, the level of serotonin in the brain is reduced.
Melatonin from tryptophan is produced in the brain during the night hours. It is called "sleep hormone" because it is this substance that provides good quality sleep. Melatonin makes it easier to fall asleep, makes sleep deeper and longer.
Pantothenic acid (vitamin B 5) in the dietary supplement Tryptophan Evalar helps to eliminate fatigue, sleep disorders, relieve fatigue and irritability. For its properties, pantothenic acid has received the name "anti-stress vitamin".
Pyridoxine (vitamin B 6) is needed to maintain the normal functioning of the brain and peripheral nerves, and it is also involved in the synthesis of serotonin from tryptophan.
Thus, the active ingredients in the "Calm Formula-Tryptophan" dietary supplement from Evalar have the following positive effects on the human body:
- Normalize sleep-wake cycles;
- Help to quickly adapt when changing time zones when flying;
- Reduce irritability, aggressiveness, anxiety, psycho-emotional stress, depressed mood;
- Accelerate and facilitate the process of falling asleep, make sleep deeper and more calm, which allows you to get enough sleep even in a relatively short period of time;
- Increase performance, both mental and physical;
- They create an elated mood and a feeling of peace of mind.
Indications for use
The dietary supplement "Calm Formula-Tryptophan" from Evalar can be recommended for use if a person has any of the following sensations, symptoms or circumstances: - Being in a stressful situation;
- Frequent business trips, especially with a change of time zones;
- Any travel;
- There is a constant feeling of fear, anxiety and tension, including during air travel;
- Susceptibility to melancholy;
- Constantly bad depressed mood, irritability;
- Disturbed sleep, difficulty falling asleep, or frequent awakenings;
- Feeling sleepy at night, sleepy during the day;
- Night shift work;
- The period of quitting bad habits (for example, smoking, drinking alcohol, etc.).
Instructions for use
The capsules should be swallowed whole, without biting, splitting with a knife or trying to empty the contents out of them in any other way. It is recommended to drink dietary supplements half an hour before meals, 1 - 2 capsules twice a day. In principle, Tryptophan Evalar can be taken at any time, regardless of food, but it is better still half an hour before breakfast, lunch or dinner. It is advisable to drink the capsules with water in an amount of at least half a glass.You should know that it is better to drink capsules both times after lunch, for example, after work and before bedtime, since taking the drug in the daytime or morning hours can cause drowsiness and loss of performance. But reception in the evening hours (both times), on the contrary, will provide the maximum severity of the therapeutic effect with the absence of unpleasant side effects.
The duration of the course of use is at least one month. If necessary, the course of taking dietary supplements can be extended or repeated after a short break (1 - 4 weeks).
The product is intended for use by adults over 18 years of age, therefore it is not recommended to give dietary supplements to children.
Pregnant women should also not take Evalar's Calm-Tryptophan Formula, as the risks of using the product and its possible negative effects on the fetus are not exactly known.
Contraindications
The dietary supplement "Calm Formula-Tryptophan" from Evalar is contraindicated for use if a person has the following conditions or diseases:- Individual intolerance or allergic reactions to any components of the product;
- Pregnancy period;
Analogs
Other biologically active additives can be considered analogs of Tryptophan from Evalar, which also contain the amino acid tryptophan in their composition as the main active component. Currently, there are not many such dietary supplements, and in the domestic pharmaceutical market, these include the following:- Vita-Tryptophan from Hi-Tech Nutraceuticals or Nittany Pharmaceuticals;
- NeuroDose produced by NPO PharmVILAR.
- L-Tryptophan from New Foods
- Jarrow Formulas L-Tryptophan
- L-Tryptophan from Zahler;
- L-Tryptophan from Source Naturales
- L-Tryptophan from Bluebonnet Nutrition
- L-Tryptophan by Natural Balance
- L-Tryptophan by Doctor's Best;
- L-Tryptophan from Life Extension.
- Welson;
- How Neo slept;
- Magne Good sleep;
- Melatonin;
- Melatonin Evalar;
- Melaxen;
- Melarena;
- Melarhythm;
- Sonnovan;
- Sonnorm;
- Circadin.