Tryptophan [pronounced trip-toe-fan] is commonly used as an anti-depressant. It is very important for the chemical balance of the brain where it plays a role in balancing mood and sleep patterns. In the body tryptophan is first converted into 5HTP, which can then be converted into serotonin. Once serotonin is made, the penal gland is also able to convert it at night into melatonin, the sleep inducing hormone.
Studies have shown that serotonin deficiencies are well documented in cases of depression and insomnia. In previous studies depressed patients were found to have significantly lower levels of blood plasma tryptophan than healthy people.
It is commonly believed that depression is linked to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. An important chemical is serotonin as this influences mood. The amino acid tryptophan comprises one of the building blocks of DNA and is required by the body to produce serotonin. It is an essential amino acid, which means your body can not produce it and so it must be obtained through diet.
There are many natural antidepressants which are as effective, or even more effective, than similar prescription antidepressants. Drugs such as Prozac and Zoloft do not increase serotonin levels, they simply keep the limited amount of natural serotonin available in the brain. Natural supplements can be taken without the side effects that are often associated with prescription drugs.
Mixed anxiety and depression is the most common mental disorder in Britain. It is reported that nearly 2 in 3 adults suffer from a mild form of depression [lasting a few weeks] at some stage in their life. However, it is reported that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men become severely depressed and require treatment. Approximately 1 in 5 adults regularly experience difficulty sleeping. Approximately 70% people suffering from depression also experience insomnia.
Concerns keeping you awake at night?
If stress and worry are preventing you sleeping then you are certainly not alone. A recent study found that over half of adults in the UK suffer from sleep problems. The study, conducted by the University of Glasgow and Sleepio, discovered that 51% of adults in the UK struggle to fall asleep. Of these adults 75% of women and 25% of men have trouble getting to sleep at night.
Researchers also found that lack of sleep and poor sleep patterns can have serious impacts on health: of those taking part in the study 77% admitted to problems concentrating, 64% felt less productive at work, 93% lacked energy, and 83% suffered mood sings. Worryingly, a quarter of people with insomnia suffer for more than 11 years. These statistics are particularly concerning due to the close links of insomnia to other health issues such as depression and diabetes.
Additional ways to relieve depression, anxiety and insomnia
In addition to natural supplements, there are other lifestyle factors that can also help when used in combination.
� Reduce intake of stimulants � coffee intake and other stimulants should be limited to the morning. Try not to take these after lunch.
� Regular day time exercise � can help you to feel more relaxed and tired for bed. However, try not to exercise 1-2 hours before bed as your body will still be alert as a result of your increased heart rate.
� Do not eat a heavy evening meal – try to balance the size of your meals throughout the day so your evening meal is not as large. An over active digestive system at night can increase the likelihood of sleep problems.
� Try to find time to wind down before bed � this can be hard in today’s busy society, but finding the time for relaxing activities such as reading, watching TV, or listening to relaxing music, can stop you going to bed with your mind full of the stresses and challenges you faced that day.
� Try to establish a clear routine � our bodies respond well to routine. Go to bed at roughly the same time and eventually your body will begin to respond, shutting down at routine times.
� Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet and relaxing. Try not to use your bedroom for other activities during the evening, such as work, watching TV etc.
� If you can not sleep after 20-30 minutes then get up and go into another room. Go back to be when you begin to feel sleepy. Trying to force your mind to sleep leads to frustration that further prevents sleep.
For further information regarding the health benefits of tryptophan visit SimplySupplements. Alternatively, simply call free phone 0800 988 0292 to speak to an advisor.