What is L-Tryptophan?

L-Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, which means your body can’t make it on its own—you have to get it from food or supplements. It plays a key role in producing serotonin, a brain chemical that helps regulate mood, relaxation, and sleep.

Since serotonin is also a precursor to melatonin (the sleep hormone), L-Tryptophan helps support a healthy sleep cycle by increasing melatonin production naturally.

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How Does L-Tryptophan Help with Sleep?

L-Tryptophan works by supporting the production of serotonin and melatonin, which are crucial for relaxation and sleep. Here’s how:

Boosts Serotonin Levels – Serotonin helps you feel calm, happy, and relaxed, making it easier to fall asleep.

Increases Melatonin Production – Some of the serotonin your body makes is converted into melatonin, the hormone that tells your brain it’s time to sleep.

Helps You Fall Asleep Faster – Studies show that L-Tryptophan can shorten the time it takes to fall asleep, especially in people who struggle with insomnia.

Improves Sleep Quality – By promoting deeper sleep stages, L-Tryptophan helps you wake up feeling refreshed and energized.

Reduces Stress & Anxiety – Since serotonin has a calming effect, L-Tryptophan may also help with stress-related sleep problems.

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Foods Rich in L-Tryptophan

You can get L-Tryptophan from protein-rich foods, including:

🍗 Turkey & Chicken
🥩 Beef & Fish
🥚 Eggs
🧀 Dairy (cheese, yogurt, milk)
🫘 Legumes (soy, lentils, chickpeas)
🌰 Nuts & Seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds)
🍌 Bananas

Since L-Tryptophan needs carbohydrates to be effectively absorbed, eating these foods with a small portion of healthy carbs (like whole grains, fruits, or honey) can help boost its effectiveness for sleep.

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How to Take L-Tryptophan as a Supplement

If you’re not getting enough L-Tryptophan from food or need extra support for sleep, supplements may help.

💊 Dosage:

  • 500–2,000 mg, taken 30–60 minutes before bed.
  • Lower doses (250–500 mg) may support mood and relaxation during the day.

🕒 Best Time to Take It:

  • Before bed for better sleep.
  • During the day (in lower doses) to boost mood and relaxation.

🍞 Take with Carbs:

  • A small amount of carbs (like a banana or oats) helps L-Tryptophan reach the brain more efficiently.

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