Scientific research indicates the brain chemical serotonin helps regulate sleep and brain function. If you produce insufficient amounts of serotonin, then you could experience restlessness and lack of alertness.
Your brain produces serotonin with the help of the amino acid tryptophan. In a university study conducted in the Netherlands, scientists determined whey protein contains alpha-lactalbumina substance that increases your brains use of tryptophan. The researchers studied 28 people, including 14 with and 14 without mild sleep complaints. All participants ate an evening meal which either contained the tryptophan-rich alpha-lactalbumin or a placebo protein.
The 14 folks who ate the meal containing alpha-lactalbumin experienced a 130 percent increase in tryptophan uptake. Plus, researchers noted a significant reduction in sleepiness and improved alertness the following morning. Whey protein is an excellent source of nutrients to boost your brains production of serotonin. This can help you sleep soundly through the night for optimum mental alertness and performance during the day.