Feel good, sleep better, fight pain or aging, find the daily motivation to face life?All of these processes are mediated by two biological components, fascinating and wonderful: Tryptophan and Serotonin. adequate level of Tryptophan, Serotonin synthesis would not be possible.
The impact of this amino acid (Tryptophan) and neurotransmitter (serotonin) on our mood, health and cognition is evident, for example, clinical studies, such as that published in 2016 by the University of Melbourne, also show that in this alliance it should include a third protagonist: our intestines. Serotonin, also known as the Happiness Molecule, is produced almost entirely by enterochromafines, incredible cells that populate our intestinal lining.
- Tryptophan and Serotonin are essential for our well-being.
- So the amino acid L-Tryptophan is necessary to produce Serotonin in the brain.
- However.
- Our diet and consumption of inflammatory foods can break down the effectiveness of this essential amino acid.
However, for this to be possible, we must maintain good levels of Tryptophan, only in this way is orchestrated biological magic, neurochemical harmony where this amino acid acts as a powerful precursor to Serotonin, to achieve it, making this sensational tool composed of Tryptophan, Serotonin and the gut work effectively and for our benefit, certainly depends on our lifestyle.
A varied, balanced and nutrient-rich diet will promote this essential organic alliance.
Brain Tryptophan and Serotonin levels are determined by factors as curious as they are complex, it is known, for example, that there are certain types of amino acids that compete with Tryptophan for transport across the blood brain barrier. high in saturated fats, white flours or sugars tend to deplete Tryptophan, reducing its activity and presence at key points such as cerebrospinal fluid.
With a lower level of Tryptophan, as we know, a lower amount of Serotonin will be metabolized in our body, on the other hand, what has been proven is that fibromyalgia patients also have a plasma tryptophan deficiency and their speed of transport. Does all this translate into a greater feeling of tiredness, pain, discouragement, trouble sleeping?
L-Tryptophan is undoubtedly the most important component of this process, an essential amino acid, which basically means that our body cannot produce it, so we have to get it through a plan, but it is not valid with any plan. This diet must be taken good so that, for example, the right proteins and basic nutrients such as vitamin B6 or magnesium (Mg) are not lacking.
Depressed mood may be directly related to a Tryptophan deficiency. In fact, there are many clinical studies that link low levels of Tryptophan and Serotonin to the onset of certain types of depression, anxiety disorders, etc. It’s something to keep in mind, something that should definitely remind us of the importance of taking care of our lifestyle.
Below are some effects associated with low levels of Tryptophan and Serotonin.
Naturally we can improve the level of Tryptophan and Serotonin in our body, so it is not necessary to go to the pharmacy looking for food supplements as the only strategy to achieve the desired effect, no, if our doctor did not prescribe them. No, if we don’t have a preclynic evaluation, we actually need these supplements for a severe deficiency of this amino acid and this neurotransmitter.
Thus, the ideal, good and most recommended is always to pay attention to our diet and the right diet, so let’s see what options we have at our disposal.
In conclusion, as we can see, boosting Tryptophan production to mediate Serotonin synthesis is easier than what is thought, however, it is not enough to include only the most attractive options, it is also necessary to reduce the consumption of foods that are generally not beneficial: fast food, processed foods, biscuits and cakes?
So let’s start taking better care of ourselves, because everything we include in our diet directly affects our own well-being.