An essential amino acid involved in the body's sleep-related pathways.
L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid, meaning your body cannot produce it and must obtain it from food or supplements.
The body uses tryptophan to produce serotonin, which can in turn be used to produce melatonin, a hormone involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
Why it's included
Tryptophan is involved in biological pathways associated with sleep and circadian rhythms. However, this does not mean that supplementing with tryptophan will necessarily improve sleep. Evidence for its effectiveness as a sleep aid remains limited.
What to know
L-tryptophan can interact with medicines that affect serotonin, including SSRI antidepressants such as escitalopram and citalopram. Combining them can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious reaction.
Do not combine L-tryptophan with antidepressants or other serotonin-affecting medicines unless specifically advised by an appropriate healthcare professional.