The amino acid that contributes to a good mood and better sleep!
Many of us are aware that our bodies need protein, vitamins and minerals – but what about the amino acid tryptophan ? This small but important building block has a direct impact on mood, sleep and energy. Yet at Aarja Health, we see that many people lack adequate levels when we test them.
What is tryptophan?
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid – meaning the body cannot produce it itself, but is completely dependent on getting it through food or supplements. It is particularly important because it acts as a precursor to several vital substances:
- Serotonin – the signaling substance that regulates mood and emotions.
- Melatonin – the sleep hormone that controls the circadian rhythm.
- Niacin (Vitamin B3) – important for energy metabolism in all cells of the body.
In short: without enough tryptophan, the body's own "chemical factory" does not function optimally.
How tryptophan affects body chemistry
1. Tryptophan → Serotonin (mood and mental balance)
When you ingest tryptophan, it is transported into the brain where it is converted into 5-HTP , which is then converted into serotonin . Serotonin is known as the “happy hormone” because it is so important for mental balance, emotional well-being, and well-being. Low serotonin levels are associated with low mood, anxiety, and even depression.
2. Tryptophan → Melatonin (sleep and circadian rhythm)
Serotonin is in turn the precursor to melatonin – the body’s sleep hormone. When it gets dark in the evening, the brain converts serotonin into melatonin, which makes us tired and regulates sleep. If you are deficient in tryptophan, this chain can be broken, resulting in poor sleep and disrupted circadian rhythms.
3. Tryptophan → Niacin (Vitamin B3 and energy)
In the liver, tryptophan can also be converted to niacin (vitamin B3) . This vitamin is essential for forming the coenzymes NAD and NADP , which are used in energy metabolism in all your cells. The process is inefficient (about 60 mg of tryptophan is needed to make 1 mg of niacin), but it serves as an important backup if you don't get enough B3 from your diet.
Signs that you may have too little tryptophan
A lack of tryptophan can cause diffuse symptoms that many people do not connect to their diet. Typical signs can be:
- Mood swings or depression
- Sleep problems or difficulty falling asleep
- Energy loss and fatigue
- Cravings for sugar or fast carbohydrates
- Poorer stress management and concentration difficulties
Many people are surprised when they discover that a simple amino acid can have such a big impact.
Where do we find tryptophan in the diet?
Tryptophan is found in protein-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, fish, eggs and meat. However, the amount varies, and for many people it can be challenging to get enough – especially if you eat little animal protein or have increased needs.
Moringa – a natural source of tryptophan
One of nature's richest plant-based alternatives is Moringa – a nutrient-dense super leaf high in tryptophan.
At Aarja Health, we have made it easy to get this by offering Moringa in capsules, so you can safely replenish your body's needs. In addition to tryptophan, you get a whole package of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support the immune system, energy production and nervous system.
By supplying your body with enough tryptophan via Moringa , you can experience:
- Better sleep quality
- More stable mood
- More consistent energy throughout the day
- Less cravings and better stress management
Tryptophan is not just an amino acid – it is the starting point for important processes that regulate mood, sleep and energy.
Aarja Health's organic Moringa gives you a safe and natural way to more tryptophan – and thus better sleep, more energy and a brighter mood in everyday life.