Tryptophan is important in the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is known as the relaxing neurotransmitter. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid. That is, we cannot produce tryptophan in our bodies, so we must consume it in our food or as a supplement. Alternatively, we can take it as a supplement called 5-OH tryptophan, which can be converted to serotonin in our bodies.
The following foods are all high in the amino acid tryptophan. The foods highest in tryptophan are at the top of the following list. Foods toward the bottom of this list are still high in tryptophan, but not as high as those at the top.
Spirulina algae, dry
Spinach
Soy sauce
Crab
Shrimp
Lobster
Water cress
Egg whites
Turkey
Tuna
Chicken
Cod
Haddock
Soybeans
Beef
Crimini mushrooms
Turnip greens
Mozzarella cheese
Broccoli rabe
Cottage cheese
Parsley
Asparagus
Chia seeds
Cow’s milk
Rainbow Grocery sells the following: Tryptophan, 5-OH tryptophan and all of the above non-flesh products.
Summary #961. nutrientmedicine
