Posted by Tomatheus on July 26, 2006, at 19:32:34
In reply to tryptophan vs 5-HTP, posted by saturn on July 25, 2006, at 7:28:23
Saturn,
I can't answer all of your questions, but I can tell you that l-tryptophan's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier is limited by the fact that it must compete with 14 other amino acids to be transported to the brain. However, as you mentioned, there is some evidence that 5-HTP also does not cross the blood-brain barrier easily, so it's difficult to say whether l-tryptophan or 5-HTP would be superior in this regard.
In Googling l-tryptophan and 5-HTP, I came across an article that you may find helpful. Here's the URL:
http://www.ceri.com/rev-sero.htm
As far as the effects of 5-HTP are concerned, I have personally found that the product brand actually makes a difference. When I took Natrol brand 5-HTP capsules (50 mg), I noticed a definite (but rather mild) antidepressant/calming effect, whether I was taking it with (non-serotogenic) meds or without meds. The effect never lasted for longer than a few hours, but in my case, the effect was definitely there. However, when I took 5-HTP manufactured by Solaray (also in 50 mg capsules), I didn't notice a thing. So, some brands of 5-HTP may be more effective than others, and of course, the effects probably vary from one individual to the next.
I've yet to supplement with l-tryptophan, so I can't say based on my experience whether or not it's more effective than 5-HTP -- at least as far as my individual case is concerned. And based on what I know about the two supplements, I can't think of any reason why taking l-tryptophan would be more beneficial than taking 5-HTP. Both are believed to be somewhat limited in their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, and l-tryptophan (unlike 5-HTP) isn't just a precursor to serotonin. It's also a precursor to a chemical called kynurenine, which suggests that l-tryptophan may, if anything, be less potent than 5-HTP. Of course, my knowledge is limited, and it's possible that some individuals may find l-tryptophan to be more beneficial than 5-HTP, but based on the information that's available to me, I can't think of any reason why it would be.
Sincerely,
Tomatheus> Does anyone know the benefit of L-tryptophan over 5-HTP? Does 5-HTP cause heart problems? My understanding was that 5-HTP does not penetrate the brain well in order to make serotonin--is this correct?
>
> I had tried 5-HTP and IMHO it is snake oil. I am curious if tryptophan is the same or actually has clinical studies to back it up? Could anyone give some feedback on this? Thanks...Saturn.
poster:Tomatheus
thread:670285
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20060704/msgs/670870.html