Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, used by the brain to produce serotonin, a necessary neurotransmitter which transfers nerve impulses from cell to cell, and is responsible for normal sleep.
Tryptophan also helps combat depression and insomnia and to stabilize moods. It helps to control hyperactivity in children, alleviates stress, benefits the heart, aids in weight control as an appetite suppressant, and enhances the release of growth hormone. B-6 (pyridoxine) is necessary for the formation of tryptophan, which is required for the formation of serotonin. A lack of tryptophan and magnesium may contribute to coronary artery spasms or irregular heartbeats; supplementation can conceivably reduce heart attacks.