Posted by cache-monkey on December 7, 2004, at 23:34:26
In reply to Re: L-tryptophan or 5-HTP; a few questions ... » cache-monkey, posted by MKB on December 7, 2004, at 19:45:49
Hi,
Thanks for the link. I read what they have to say about the difference between 5-HTP and tryptophan. But, I do wonder whether they might be playing up the risks (and playing down the benefits) of 5-HTP a little since they are also trying to sell tryptophan on their website...
Also, a follow-up question for you: how long have you been on tryptophan? (I'm wondering about whether there's a potential for poop-out.)
Best,
cache-monkey> Please, please, please read the explanation at www.healthrecovery.com about why tryptophan is better than 5HTP. These people know what they are doing. It sounds like you have the types of problems that would be helped by tryptophan. However, it is not a good idea to take it with antidepressants unless you are under a doctor's supervision. If you decide to try tryptophan, you need to give it time to work, just like you would an antidepressant. Personally, I think you will be able to tell a difference in less than a week. And don't feel like you have to start with high doses. Both my son and I have noticed a big difference from taking only 500 mg a night. I have had depression for at least 10 years and this is the best thing I've taken. My son has had tremendous difficulty sleeping ever since he was a child. He says he has noticed a big difference in his ability to sleep well since he has started tryptophan. He also has always been short-tempered and says he definitely feels calmer now that he is taking it.
>
> 5HTP is not as good as pharmaceutical tryptophan. It ends up circulating in your blood, but not always going to your brain, where you need it. This is also explained on the website www.healthrecovery.com.
poster:cache-monkey
thread:425800
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20041123/msgs/425967.html