Tryptophan Unit Converter

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, meaning the body cannot produce it and it must be obtained from food. It is present in the lowest concentration of all amino acids in the bloodstream.

Tryptophan serves as the sole precursor for serotonin synthesis in the brain. It is also used to produce melatonin, niacin (vitamin B3), and other important metabolites through two main pathways: the serotonin pathway and the kynurenine pathway.

Approximately 95% of tryptophan is metabolized through the kynurenine pathway, while only about 1% is used for serotonin production in the brain. Plasma levels reflect the balance between dietary intake, protein synthesis, and metabolic degradation.

Tryptophan is obtained entirely from dietary sources such as turkey, chicken, milk, cheese, tuna, oats, bananas, chocolate, and peanuts. Typical daily intake is approximately 900–1000 mg, well above the recommended 250–425 mg for adults.