Does tryptophan cause migraines? (5+ factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will explore whether tryptophan causes migraines. Furthermore, we will discuss the link between tryptophan and migraine, the impact of tryptophan-rich diets or supplements, contributing factors, and what to do if migraine persists.
Does tryptophan cause migraines?
Tryptophan does not cause migraines. When a person has lower levels of tryptophan than needed, they may experience symptoms of migraine, nausea, or dizziness. Hence, it is important to maintain sufficient tryptophan levels to have normal body functions (1).
Tryptophan is an amino acid which is a precursor of serotonin and is also involved in the synthesis of other compounds such as melatonin, niacin, and others. Tryptophan is not synthesized by the human body but it is an essential component required for various biological processes. Therefore, tryptophan has to be taken through tryptophan-rich foods or supplements (2).
What is the link between tryptophan and migraines?
The link between tryptophan and migraine has been studied in a few research studies. These studies suggested that when enough tryptophan is not consumed through diet or supplements, its depletion may cause migraines in some people. People taking 0.84 to 1.06gm of tryptophan per day may have a 60% lower chance of getting migraines.
On the other hand, people who consume less than 0.56gm per day may have increased chances of experiencing migraines. Therefore, sufficient tryptophan levels may reduce the risk of migraines (3). The low levels of tryptophan may cause various disorders including migraines. A deficiency of tryptophan may not directly trigger migraine but may worsen its symptoms.
Tryptophan is involved in the synthesis of certain compounds such as serotonin, melatonin, niacin, and others. This relationship between serotonin and other compounds with tryptophan is believed to be the reason behind the worsening of migraine symptoms (1).
What is the impact of tryptophan-rich diets or supplements on migraines?
The impact of increasing tryptophan-rich diet or through supplements may alleviate migraine symptoms in some individuals. Tryptophan-rich foods may include eggs, turkey, chicken, bread, cheese, lentils, nuts, flaxseeds, etc (4).
Tryptophan supplements can also be used to overcome the deficiency as per individual needs. The usual adult dose of tryptophan supplement is 60mg taken for 3 months. However, your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose according to your condition (5).
What are the contributing factors to migraine?
The contributing factors to migraines may include the following:
- If you have a family history of migraines or headaches, you may have a higher chance of experiencing them.
- Exposure to noise pollution or strong odours might serve as a triggering factor for migraines.
- Sleep disturbances, stress, or depression may also cause migraines in some individuals.
- Changes in brain chemicals such as serotonin might also be involved in migraine development.
- Hormonal changes such as during the menstrual cycle, menopause etc., may trigger migraines.
- Side effects of certain antidepressants such as Pristiq, Lexapro, etc.
What to do if tryptophan-associated migraines persist?
If tryptophan-associated migraines persist, you should consult your healthcare provider. They may evaluate your current symptoms, family, and medical history. They may suggest you tryptophan supplements or tryptophan-rich diets to manage the deficiency.
If you are taking a tryptophan-rich diet along with supplements, your doctor will make sure you are not getting tryptophan more than needed, as increased levels may pose adverse effects (4). Your doctor may also prescribe you some medicines that will help to manage or prevent migraines such as Celexa, or Abilify.
In my opinion, tryptophan does not cause migraines, however, its depletion may worsen the symptoms of migraines. If you experience migraine due to tryptophan deficiency, your doctor may suggest consuming a tryptophan-rich diet or supplements, which may help you to prevent and treat migraines.
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References
1.-
Körtési T, Spekker E, Vécsei L. Exploring the Tryptophan Metabolic Pathways in Migraine-Related Mechanisms. Cells. 2022 Nov 27;11(23):3795. doi: 10.3390/cells11233795. PMID: 36497053; PMCID: PMC9736455. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9736455/
2.-
Kałużna-Czaplińska J, Gątarek P, Chirumbolo S, Chartrand MS, Bjørklund G. How important is tryptophan in human health? Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2019;59(1):72-88. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2017.1357534. Epub 2017 Sep 1. PMID: 28799778. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28799778/
3.-
Razeghi Jahromi S, Togha M, Ghorbani Z, Hekmatdoost A, Khorsha F, Rafiee P, Shirani P, Nourmohammadi M, Ansari H. The association between dietary tryptophan intake and migraine. Neurol Sci. 2019 Nov;40(11):2349-2355. doi: 10.1007/s10072-019-03984-3. Epub 2019 Jun 28. PMID: 31254181. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31254181/
4.-
Dawn M Richard, Michael A Dawes, Charles W Mathias, Ashley Acheson, Nathalie Hill-Kapturczak, and Donald M Dougherty. L-Tryptophan: Basic Metabolic Functions, Behavioral Research and Therapeutic Indications. PMCID: PMC2908021. NIHMSID: NIHMS104762. PMID: 20651948. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2908021/
5.-
L-Tryptophan-MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [Last reviewed – 05/12/2023]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/326.html
