Ultimately, a balanced diet is the best way to make sure we’re getting good doses of tryptophan circulating in our bodies. Although powder supplements are available, Cummings-Palmer believes that food is a purer and more effective way to help restore healthy sleep patterns. “Tryptophan is most abundant in protein-rich foods and one of my favourite sources is turkey as it also comes with a healthy dose of collagen, is relatively low in calories and is really well tolerated by most people.”

She goes onto say that eggs are another great source of tryptophan: “Try a two-egg omelette with spinach or avocado for breakfast and boost the nutrition profile even further by adding mushrooms for vitamin D. Sustainably sourced canned tuna is another rich source but make sure you choose olive oil rather than brine-based for some additional good fats and antioxidants. Add cucumber – rich in silica which supports hair and skin – tomatoes that are rich in skin-protecting lycopene for fast food, superfood lunch that will boost your health.”

Cummings-Palmer points out that vegetarians and vegans can top up on tryptophan by snacking on nuts and seeds. Peanuts are a particularly good source, although she warns that they can be tough on the digestive system, “so limit your serving to a small handful and opt for raw rather than processed. You can sprinkle with a little sea salt and roast at home for added flavour.”

Recover better and get stronger by eating these tryptophan-rich foods