Tryptophan, also known as L-Tryptophan, is an amino acid that plays a vital role as a natural mood regulator. It has the potential to aid the body in producing and balancing certain hormones which are beneficial to fibromyalgia.
How is Tryptophan beneficial?
Tryptophan is the building block of two important human biochemical, the feel good hormone Serotonin and the sleep hormone Melatonin. When you consume Tryptophan laden food or supplements, there is a natural calming effect that helps you to fight anxiety, encourage sound sleep and also burn more fat. These benefits can help with the common fibromyalgia symptoms such as depression, anxiety, poor sleep, fatigue etc. Furthermore, tryptophan has the reputation of reducing food cravings, especially for carbohydrates. Hence, sugar addiction is eliminated along with the release of the feel good hormones.
I would have liked to have tried 5-HTP but I am taking Tramadol and was told by a chemist that the two clash and not to take it. What foods are available instead that I could incorporate into my diet please that contain tryptophan and serotonin?
Olwyn,
Foods that are high in tryptophan include: chicken, turkey, fish, cheese, eggs, yogurt, nuts, oats, beans, lentils, cheese.
You can read more here: https://healthiculture.com/fibromyalgia-pain-relief-tip-tryptophan/2/