It is a food supplement in free form of essential amino acids, encoded in RNA. Therefore, L-Tryptophan is essential for the proper functioning of the body and represents approximately 1% of amino acids. It is only synthesized by microorganisms and plants. Therefore, we must take it into our body.
L-tryptophan helps in the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin through the blood brain barrier. Supplements of Tryptophan and its metabolite 5HTP promote the secretion of serotonin. It may be of interest in helping to combat depressive disorders as well as facilitating sleep. L-tryptophan may also help in smoking cessation.
L-tryptophan, as mentioned above, is not produced by the body, so it must be supplied. In the diet it is found mainly in soy protein, eggs, almonds, brewer's yeast, fish and meat, legumes, bananas, chocolate, peanuts.