L-Tryptophan is a chemical precursor for Serotonin in the body, known as 5-hydroxy-tryptophan or 5HT. Serotonin is the major neurotransmitter within the brain and found to have decreased in people who are depressed and suffer from chronic pain syndromes Tryptophan is important in the transfer of nerve impulses; has been found to produce a calming effect used in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. Because of these qualities it is responsible for normal sleep. It also takes part in the process of burning extra body fat and aids in weight control. •
Effective sleep aid, due to conversion to serotonin.
Reduces anxiety.
Effective in some forms of depression.
Treatment for migraine headaches.
Stimulates growth hormone (HGH).
Along with Lysine, Carnitine, and Taurine is effective in lowering cholesterol levels.
Lowers risk of arterial spasms.
The only plasma amino acid that is bound to protein.
Griffonia simplicifolia 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is extracted from a seed of the plant. 5-HTP is a naturally occurring form of an amino acid, the intermediate compound between the amino acid L-tryptophan and neurotransmitter serotonin.
In Studies: Research shows it helps relieve migraine headaches and may reduce some of the harmful effects of nicotine.
Technicals: Precursor to the key neurotransmitter, serotonin, which exerts a calming effect.
Standard AMA, APA (American Psychiatric Association), FDA, and pharmaceutical industry position has been that Tryptophan is not an effective treatment of serotonin-depletion depressions, when compared to Prozac and other SSRI's.
Clinical experience has shown that some people respond well to Prozac while others respond well to Tryptophan in treating serotonin-depleted depressions. When the FDA banned Tryptophan, thousands of people who only had a positive response to Tryptophan (and not to Prozac) decompensated psychologically and never recovered.
Antagonist: Tryptophan must compete with 5 other amino acids to pass through the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain. Those 5 are: tyrosine, phenylalanine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine and are called Large Neutral Amino Acids (LNAA).
Synergist: Requires pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P) a form of vitamin B6 to be converted into serotonin. P5P deficiency will lower serotonin levels, even if Tryptophan levels are normal. Can be converted into niacin (Vitamin B3).
Signs or Symptoms of a Deficiency: Depression
Insomnia
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
ALS
Excess maybe seen in: Increased intake of salicylates (aspirin).
Increased blood levels of free fatty acids.
Sleep deprivation.
Niacin intake
Caution: Simultaneous treatment with Tryptophan and Prozac (and other SSRI anti-depressants, such as Paxil and Zoloft) can produce an irreversible brain disorder called Serotonin Syndrome. This treatment combination is to be avoided.
Warning: FDA ban of Tryptophan. It is available, but only through prescription and compounding pharmacies.
The statements on this Web site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). And are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information presented is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment from your own doctor or healthcare provider. Nothing presented here is intended as a substitute for prescription medication or any other medical treatment prescribed by your doctor.
