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This amino acid is required for the production of niacin (vitamin B3). It is one of several essential amino acids needed in the diet; human beings cannot synthesize it from simpler metabolites. A deficiency of tryptophan may lead to depression, insomnia, schizophrenia, suicidal thoughts and carbohydrate craving. Deficiency of tryptophan in the diet enhances the progress of the vitamin-deficiency disease pellagra, which is treated by restoring nicotinic acid to the diet, usually supplemented with tryptophan. Tryptophan is important in controlling hyperactivity in children, assists in alleviating stress, and helps with weight loss and reducing appetite. It has also been found that people suffering from migraine headaches have abnormal levels of tryptophan, and in this supplementation may be helpful.
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