I kicked the blankets on the floor, Turned my pillow upside down. I never never did before, Because I was tossing and turnin', Turnin and tossing, Tossing an turnin' all night.
Tryptophan is a naturally occurring amino acid that is best known for its ability to raise mood, improve behavior, and enhance sleep. It is found in the proteins we eat—meat, fish, dairy and certain vegetarian sources. These proteins are broken down into their constituent amino acids which go on to become the building blocks for skin, bones, muscles, enzymes and the body’s own chemicals that run our systems. Since it’s an essential amino acid, meaning that our body doesn’t manufacture it, we must obtain tryptophan daily from food or supplements.
Although tryptophan is one of the least abundant essential amino acids, it is one of the most critical, it serves as a precursor for the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin and the neurohormone melatonin. The positive effects of this process are proven to promote good mood, relaxation, deep sleep, healthy sleep-wake patterns, emotional stability, dreaming and creative imagination.
Serotonin is considered the "mood neurotransmitter" a chemical messenger in the brain that keeps us emotionally and socially stable. Women often have more problems than men in maintaining their moods, since their cycling hormones affect serotonin levels. This would explain the emotional shifts in premenstrual syndrome and, during menopause, when many women experience increased moodiness and irritability. Yikes!
Women who are low in serotonin are likelier to express their anger inwardly, with depression and even suicidal behavior. In contrast, research shows men who are low in serotonin are often violent and may even engage in dangerous criminal behavior. Alcohol and drug abusers also are often low in serotonin. The good news is we can successfully correct these imbalances by supplying supplements that raise serotonin.
Melatonin is a molecule made from serotonin. It has significant influence on our hormonal, immune and nervous systems. Melatonin helps to set and control the internal clock that governs the natural "circadian" rhythm (day and night cycles) of the body, through its sensitivity to light, keeping us "in sync" with the rhythms of nature. Each night the pineal gland produces melatonin, which helps us fall asleep. Then, with morning light, melatonin levels dip, and we awaken refreshed.
Melatonin also has anti-inflammatory effects that can be useful in treating osteoarthritis. Since it both helps improve sleep patterns and relieve pain, melatonin is an ideal supplement for chronic fatigue syndrome as well as sleep apnea.
So next time you're tossing and turning all night, don't throw the pillow at the cat, he didn't do nothing...try some l-tryptophan for a good nights sleep and give your loved ones a break...
Please visit us at: Innovative Nutrition, 206 Rt. 25A, East Setauket, NY or, online at: www.vibranthealthcompany.net
