tryptophan
/ˈtrɪptəfæn/
noun
- An essential amino acid found in many proteins, especially in foods like turkey, milk, and eggs, that the body uses to make serotonin and melatonin.
- Tryptophan is important for your brain because it helps produce chemicals that regulate your mood.
- Many people take tryptophan supplements to help them sleep better at night.
- Eating turkey on Thanksgiving gives you a lot of tryptophan, which can make you feel sleepy.