Best L-Tryptophan products contain Ajinomoto TryptoPure™. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid readily converted by the body to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Able to cross the blood-brain barrier, L-tryptophan is altered by enzymes to first form the intermediate amino acid 5-HTP and then serotonin. It is also the metabolic precursor to melatonin and to the B vitamin niacin. Supplementing the diet with pure L-tryptophan like TryptoPure™, found in Doctor’s Best L-Tryptophan products, can improve sleep and enhance mood, and may also be beneficial in reducing carbohydrate cravings. *
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Suggested Use: Take 1 or 2 capsules daily, or as directed by a health practitioner. For optimum absorption, take separately from protein-containing foods and dietary supplements containing protein or amino acids.
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Supplement Facts Serving Size: 1 capsule Servings per container: 10 servings            Amount per serving           % DV Ajinomoto L-Tryptophan (TryptoPure™)               500 mg                   †---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- †Daily Value not established.
Best L-Tryptophan products contain Ajinomoto TryptoPure™. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid readily converted by the body to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Able to cross the blood-brain barrier, L-tryptophan is altered by enzymes to first form the intermediate amino acid 5-HTP and then serotonin. It is also the metabolic precursor to melatonin and to the B vitamin niacin. Supplementing the diet with pure L-tryptophan like TryptoPure™, found in Doctor’s Best LTryptophan products, can improve sleep and enhance mood, and may also be beneficial in reducing carbohydrate cravings. *
What is Ajinomoto TryptoPureâ„¢?
TryptoPure™ is pure, pharmaceutical-grade L-tryptophan produced by the world's leading maker of amino acids—Ajinomoto. The global leader in the research,production, and sales of amino acids, Ajinomoto was one of the first to make pharmaceutical-grade amino acids; they literally invented the process.
Ajinomoto TryptoPureâ„¢ is considered the purest, most trusted L-tryptophan available. It is manufactured via fermentation strictly from vegetable sources, not animal, and it is between 99% and 100% pure. The level of impurities in tryptophan from other makers can be much higher.
In fact, from 1989 to 2006 the FDA was so concerned about the quality of tryptophan coming into the U.S. that it instituted an import ban with one exception: Ajinomoto's TryptoPure™. In 1989, the importation of L-tryptophan was banned in the United States after cases of an autoimmune illness called eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome were traced to an improperly prepared batch of tryptophan.The FDA limited L-tryptophan availability to prescription drugs, infant formulas, and enteral feeding products. Because the FDA recognized the unsurpassed quality of Ajinomoto’s TryptoPure™, it was excepted from the ban, but its use was limited to those few products. Today, it is available over-thecounter in Doctor’s Best L-Tryptophan products.
Promotes Normal, Healthy, Restful Sleep*
Adequate sleep is a necessity for maintaining proper health. Sleeping well enhances our ability to function during the day. The body requires sleep as downtime to regenerate and repair essential bodily functions and allow us to feel refreshed. L-Tryptophan is a potent nutrient that has been found to enhance restful, peaceful sleep via a number of mechanisms. L-tryptophan is best known for its ability to decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.1,2 It has also been shown in studies to enhance total sleep time, decrease intermittent wakening, and decrease early morning wakefulness,3,4 allowing the body to feel rejuvenated.
The clinical efficacy of L-tryptophan is due to its ability to support normal production of serotonin in the brain.2,5,6 Serotonin has been implicated in the regulation of sleep, mood, appetite, and temperature, among other roles that it plays in the body.7 In a review article summarizing findings from over fifty studies conducted between 1970 and 1985, researchers concluded that L-tryptophan enhances overall sleep quality and also effectively provides a remedy for occasional sleeplessness.* It does this without dangerous side effects and without any feelings of next-day drowsiness.8,9
Enhances Mood and Sensations of Well-Being*
Clinical studies show that L-tryptophan supplementation can positively affect mood and emotional well-being. A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial of 115 individuals found that the administration of L-tryptophan was significantly more effective than placebo for enhancing mood and affect .10 The subjects took 1 gram of L-tryptophan or an identical placebo capsule three times per day for 12 weeks. Mood and affect were assessed using a standardized, clinically recognized rating scale. Scores in the group supplementing with L-tryptophan were significantly better than placebo at the end of the trial period, indicating L-tryptophan’s success at supporting healthy mood.
Further studies suggest that in healthy individuals, L-tryptophan has positive effects on mood, behavior, and emotional processing. For example, in a recent study of healthy females with normal moods and no history of depression, L-tryptophan supplementation alters the processing and perception of emotional stimuli towards a more positive bias. Supplementation with one gram three times per day caused an increase in happy facial expressions, a decrease in negative and disgusted facial expressions, and a decrease in the attention paid to negative words.11 A second study conducted in 2006 with a double blind crossover design indicated that the same dose of L-tryptophan (1 gram three times per day) significantly decreased quarrelsome and aggressive behaviors while enhancing agreeable behaviors in everyday social interactions. In this study, participants reported more positive and less negative emotions and rated their interactions as more pleasant.12
A number of other studies point to the ability of L-tryptophan supplementation to balance mood. A study published in 1990 suggested that individuals with seasonal variations in mood responded well to supplementation with L-tryptophan.13 Furthermore, compared to standard light therapy, the mood enhancement associated with L-tryptophan supplementation lasts longer after discontinuation than the effects seen after stopping light therapy.14
An additional double blind placebo-controlled study found that two grams of L-tryptophan administered three times a day, from the day of ovulation to the third day of menstruation (the luteal phase) in healthy women, significantly relieved the most prominent mood symptoms associated with PMS. After three months of use, women taking L-tryptophan experienced statistically significant control of extreme mood swings, sadness, irritability, and tension. It also improved their perceived quality of life.15
Decreased Carbohydrate Cravings to Support Weight Management Efforts*
L-tryptophan may play a supportive role in helping individuals who are currently involved in weight management programs and diets by helping to reduce carbohydrate cravings. During dieting, serotonin levels drop dramatically.Serotonin plays a role in controlling appetite, and eating carbohydrate-rich foods increases serotonin levels in the brain. This may explain carbohydrate cravings and resultant binge eating in some dieters. While no human trials have examined L-tryptophan supplementation directly, a number of clinical trials have used supplemental 5-HTP, the amino acid produced in the body from L-tryptophan. Results of these trials have shown decreases in overall food intake and a subsequent reduction in weight in individuals taking 5-HTP.7 The majority (75%) of the decreased food intake was from carbohydrates, suggesting decreased cravings for carbohydrates in individuals on 5-HTP.16 It is likely that L-tryptophan supplementation would have similar effects.
Uncontaminated L-tryptophan has a thirty-year history of safety and absence of adverse effects at levels commonly consumed by humans. When administered in abnormally high dosages of 7 grams (for a 150 pound human) per day, potential side effects include gastric irritation, vomiting, and head twitching.17 Use during pregnancy or lactation has not been studied as of yet and is, therefore, not recommended. L-tryptophan should not be used by individuals taking antidepressant drugs without close medical supervision.
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George, C. F., Millar, T. W., Hanly, P. J. and Kryger, M. H. Â 1989. Sleep 12: 345-53.
Hartmann, E. Â 1982. J Psychiatr Res 17: 107-13.Â
Schneider-Helmert, D. Â 1981. International Pharmacopsychiatry 16: 162-173.
Wyatt, R. J., Engelman, K., Kupfer, D. J., Fram, D. H., Sjoerdsma, A. and Snyder, F. Â 1970. Lancet 2: 842-846.
Demisch, K., Bauer, J. and Georgi, K. Â 1987a. Pharmacopsychiatry 20: 245-248.
Demisch, K., Bauer, J., Georgi, K. and Demisch, L. Â 1987b. Pharmacopsychiatry 20: 242-244.
Birdsall, T. C. Â 1998. Alternative Medicine Review 3: 271-280.
Murphy, S. E., Longhitano, C., Ayres, R. E., Cowen, P. J. and Harmer, C. J. Â 2006. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 187: 121-30.
aan het Rot, M., Moskowitz, D. S., Pinard, G. and Young, S. N. Â 2006. J Psychiatry Neurosci 31: 253-62.
McGrath, R. E., Buckwald, B. and Resnick, E. V. Â 1990. J Clin Psychiatry 51: 162-3.
Ghadirian, A. M., Murphy, B. E. and Gendron, M. J. Â 1998. J Affect Disord 50: 23-7.
Steinberg, S., Annable, L., Young, S. N. and Liyanage, N. Â 1999. Biol Psychiatry 45: 313-20.
Cangiano, C., Ceci, F., Cairella, M., Cascino, A., Del Ben, M., Laviano, A., Muscaritoli, M. and Rossi-Fanelli, F. Â 1991. Adv Exp Biol Med 294 ("Kynurenine and Serotonin Pathways"): 591-593.
2006. Â L-Tryptophan. Monograph. Altern Med Rev 11: 52-6.
The cellulose is derived from alpha cellulose from softwood pulp. This softwood pulp may be derived from hemlock, spruce or other soft woods. It is made by cooking raw plant fiber in an aqueous solution to separate the cellulose, and then purified. It then goes through extra processing to further break down the fiber. The finished product contains no residual solvents. Excipients are needed to make the materials flow into the capsule and are extremely minute in amounts and are safe.
Q2.
I am somewhat confused on how to take the DRB products. On many of the labels the Suggested Adult Use will list something along the lines of: Take 2 capsules daily, but it does not state whether they should be taken together or separately. What is the correct usage?
A2.
Unless otherwise specified on the label, the product may be taken together or separately.
Q3.
Is there a limit to how many vitamins can be taken safely in one day?
A3.
While our bodies need vitamins and minerals, like other things, if taken in large amounts they may adversely affect health. Large amounts of anything can be toxic. It is important to follow all label directions and discuss any concerns with your physician.
Q4.
What are the other ingredients and why are they used?
A4.
These are used as flow agents and aid in the production to keep the machinery running smoothly and the capsules filling correctly. Similarly for the croscarmellose sodium, which is cellulose (sourced from the cell walls of green plants), and is used to help disintegrate the tablet in the stomach.
Q5.
What is Silicon Dioxide and how is it produced?
A5.
Silicon dioxide is the most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust, and it is found across the world in various forms. Silicon dioxide (SiO2) in its pure form is colorless to white. Precipitated synthetic amorphous silicas are obtained from a process essentially using sand.
Precipitated silica is a safe (non-crystalline) mineral. According to the relevant United States and European Union standards, precipitated silica is non-hazardous with regard to manufacture, transportation and handling. Precipitated silica is an inert powder and a certified food and feed additive.
Q6.
Should I be concerned when I see that Silicon Dioxide has been used as an excipient in DRB products?
A6.
According to numerous studies reviewed to date on this long-term Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) listed food additive, the following was found:
The oral toxicity in mice is greater than (>) 5 grams/kilogram of body weight (Kimmerle 1968), or greater than 350 grams in one dose in humans based on allometric comparisons between mice and humans.
A single dose of 2.5 grams of amorphous polymeric silicon dioxide to human volunteers did not significantly raise the SiO2 excretion in the urine thus suggesting poor absorption of the compound (silicon dioxide)--(Langendorf 1966). Less than one one-hundredth (1000th) of the dose was found in urine, suggesting extremely poor absorption--(Langendorf 1966).
This would suggest that there is no scientific reason to eliminate silicon dioxide as an excipient at the very low levels found in dietary supplements.
For further information re: Silicon dioxide, see "Minerals, Trace Elements and Human Health, 4th Edition."
Q7.
Why is silicon dioxide used as an excipient in DRB products?
A7.
Silicon Dioxide is commonly used as a flow agent in supplements. It also works as an anti-caking agent, and is added as an ingredient in foods, many multivitamins and mineral supplements because silicon is necessary for good health and is a necessary nutrient for the health of skin, hair, nails and bones.
Q8.
It seems that information is now out claiming that magnesium stearate is a form of, or implicated in, trans fat, which everyone now regards as being bad. Why does Doctor’s Best use magnesium stearate in its products?
A8.
Magnesium Stearate is used to work as a lubricant in the formula. Magnesium Stearate is a salt of stearic acid. Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid. A trans fatty acid (commonly shortened to trans fat) is an unsaturated fatty acid molecule. Stearic acid, being a saturated fatty acid, is not a trans fat. The magnesium stearate used in Doctor’s Best products is vegetable sourced from palm oil.
Q9.
What is the source of the cellulose found in the some of the Doctor’s Best products?
A9.
The cellulose is made from alpha cellulose from softwood pulp. This softwood pulp may be derived from hemlock, Spruce or other soft woods.
Q10.
Since Doctor's Best does not manufacture its supplements, how are the purity and integrity of supplements verified? In addition, how are your prices lower than other brands? Does this mean that quality is being compromised?
A10.
Doctor's Best supplements are manufactured in the US at cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practice) certified facilities. All of our manufacturers and suppliers go through our vendor qualification program, which includes inspections and testing, before we agree to work with them. Our finished products have also been tested at the raw material level, in process, and as a finished product to ensure safety and quality. We place the highest importance on safety and quality and do not compromise for the sake of a better price point. The price points are lower because of production size and the overall business structure. We also place great importance on making our supplements available and affordable to those who need them most.
Q11.
What is HPLC?
A11.
HPLC stands for "High Performance Liquid Chromatography." This is an analytical lab testing method that is used to quantify the active ingredients. It is considered to be a very sensitive and accurate test. HPLC testing is a tool recognized as a quality benchmark for herbal extracts.
Q12.
Does cellulose interfere with the absorption of supplements?
A12.
Dietary fiber in general is known to change intestinal viscosity, nutrient absorption, transit time, and gut hormones. Although there is some evidence from animal studies that large amounts of cellulose in the diet (6-12% of diet) can interfere with nutrient absorption (particularly minerals), there is no evidence that the small amount in capsules interfere with nutrient absorption, as there are many pharmacokinetic studies that have been conducted with nutrients in cellulose capsules, demonstrating the ability of the nutrients to be effectively absorbed.
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