Does tryptophan lower cortisol? (3 researches)
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 aim to answer the query: “Does tryptophan lower cortisol?” Furthermore, we will talk about the role of cortisol in the body, related research findings, the role of tryptophan in cortisol management, and what to do if tryptophan does not lower your cortisol levels.
Does tryptophan lower cortisol?
Yes, tryptophan can lower cortisol levels. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is required by the body to perform its physiological processes effectively. However, tryptophan is not synthesized by the body and has to be taken either in the form of food or supplements (1).
Tryptophan has a significant role in the synthesis of serotonin, melatonin, and niacin, along with other important compounds. Tryptophan levels are also utilized in the clinical setting for the diagnosis of certain cognitive disorders. Tryptophan supplements can be used to treat depression, anxiety and sleep disorders (2).
Tryptophan is involved in the production of serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the synaptic regions of the brain regulates the behaviour, mood, appetite, emotions, memory, and the body’s stress response. Melatonin, on the other hand, regulates the sleep-wake cycle (3).
What role does cortisol play in the body?
Cortisol plays many significant roles in our bodies including regulation of immune functions, stress, metabolic functions, and inflammatory responses. During stressful conditions, our bodies get activated due to the release of cortisol and it keeps the nervous system and body alert during such times.
Cortisol is also involved in the regulation of sugar and proteins and provides the body with enough energy to deal with stressful situations. Cortisol increases the levels of sugar by triggering the liver to produce more sugar and break down proteins in muscles (4).
What does research suggest about tryptophan’s impact on cortisol levels?
According to a research study, when the participants were given tryptophan, they had lower stress hormones in their blood levels. People who were more prone to feeling stressed and hungry during difficult times got better after taking tryptophan supplements and their appetite was also controlled (5).
Another research study examined the effects of tryptophan on people having a particular gene which is affected by tryptophan. When patients with a specific genetic makeup were given tryptophan supplements, which made them go through a stressful situation, had lower stress levels compared to others (6).
These effects of tryptophan on lowering stress levels are due to decreased cortisol production which keeps the body relaxed and calm during stressful situations. The research studies discussed here indicate that tryptophan is involved in lowering cortisol levels in the bloodstream ultimately managing stress.
What is the role of tryptophan in cortisol management?
The role of tryptophan-rich diet and supplements was examined in a research study. The study indicated that when tryptophan-rich diets are given, behaviour during stressful situations might not be changed; however, such diets may reduce the levels of stress hormones in the blood due to the effects on cortisol production.
However, due to variation among individuals in their genetic makeup, response to tryptophan-rich diets may vary (7). Another study also concluded similar findings about tryptophan-rich foods. The lower stress levels are due to the effect of tryptophan on reducing cortisol levels hence making the body relaxed (8).
What to do if tryptophan does not lower cortisol?
If tryptophan does not lower cortisol levels, you may need some alternative antianxiety medications, such as Cymbalta, Celexa, Luvox, etc. However, individuals may vary in their response to tryptophan-rich diets or supplements, due to their genetic makeup and differences in physiological responses.
In my opinion, tryptophan may lower cortisol levels and hence be involved in lowering stress levels. Several research studies have suggested that tryptophan-rich diets and supplements have shown a significant reduction in cortisol levels.
However, if someone does not benefit from tryptophan supplements in reducing stress levels, then they should consult their healthcare provider. They may evaluate their current symptoms and recommend other treatment options as per their specific needs.
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References
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Comai S, Bertazzo A, Brughera M, Crotti S. Tryptophan in health and disease. Adv Clin Chem. 2020;95:165-218. doi: 10.1016/bs.acc.2019.08.005. Epub 2019 Oct 15. PMID: 32122523. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32122523/
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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/
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Bamalan OA, Moore MJ, Al Khalili Y. Physiology, Serotonin. 2023 Jul 30. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31424752. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31424752/
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Thau L, Gandhi J, Sharma S. Physiology, Cortisol. 2023 Aug 28. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30855827. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30855827/
5.-
Capello AE, Markus CR. Effect of sub chronic tryptophan supplementation on stress-induced cortisol and appetite in subjects differing in 5-HTTLPR genotype and trait neuroticism. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2014 Jul;45:96-107. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.03.005. Epub 2014 Mar 21. PMID: 24845181. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24845181/
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Cerit H, Jans LA, Van der Does W. The effect of tryptophan on the cortisol response to social stress is modulated by the 5-HTTLPR genotype. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2013 Feb;38(2):201-8. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2012.05.016. Epub 2012 Jun 18. PMID: 22717170. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22717170/
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Koopmans SJ, Ruis M, Dekker R, van Diepen H, Korte M, Mroz Z. Surplus dietary tryptophan reduces plasma cortisol and noradrenaline concentrations and enhances recovery after social stress in pigs. Physiol Behav. 2005 Jul 21;85(4):469-78. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2005.05.010. PMID: 15996691. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15996691/
8.-
Koopmans SJ, Guzik AC, van der Meulen J, Dekker R, Kogut J, Kerr BJ, Southern LL. Effects of supplemental L-tryptophan on serotonin, cortisol, intestinal integrity, and behavior in weanling piglets. J Anim Sci. 2006 Apr;84(4):963-71. doi: 10.2527/2006.844963x. PMID: 16543575. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16543575/
