Mood Boosting Supplements: L-Tryptophan

As I mentioned in my initial post on supplements that boost your moods, I will share and briefly review several supplements. In this post, I will discuss L-Tryptophan.

Please note: I am no scientific researcher, so the information within my posts are very broad, yet specific to mood disruptions. 

So let's begin! Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that can only be found in animal or plant protein. The body is unable to produce this chemical, therefore, it can only be gained through food consumption. Studies show that it has been used to treat symptoms of depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).

As mentioned above, the body is not able to produce Tryptophan on its own. However, the body needs this essential amino acid to convert to serotonin. We all need serotonin because this is the hormone that communicates to our nerve cells. Altering mood swings can be a result of changes in our brain's serotonin levels. Tryptophan does this naturally without having the horrible side effects of prescription antidepressants.

Below you will find a list of foods where Tryptophan is found:

• Meats: Cod, Salmon, Tuna, Turkey, Venison, Chicken, Lamb, and Shrimp
• Vegetables: Garlic, Raw Edamame, Spinach, Brocoli, Celery and Soybeans

Of course, if you struggle with your moods or know that you have a serotonin deficiency, I recommend taking a supplement to fill in the gap of food and overall wellness. You can eat until you can't eat anymore, so you want to be sure that you are giving your body an opportunity to absorb all of the nutrients through food and supplements. Take a look at Vitacost's L-Tryptophan to start.

Stay tuned, there's a few more mood boosting supplements left to discuss!