Table of Contents
How long can you take L-tryptophan?
When taken by mouth: L-tryptophan occurs naturally in many foods, and is consumed as part of the diet. L-tryptophan supplements are possibly safe when taken for up to 3 weeks.
Why is excess tryptophan bad?
L-tryptophan can cause some side effects such as heartburn, stomach pain, belching and gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It can also cause headache, lightheadedness, drowsiness, dry mouth, visual blurring, muscle weakness, and sexual problems.
Does L-tryptophan cross the blood brain barrier?
L-tryptophan (i.e. tryptophan) is one of eight essential amino acids (i.e. amino acids that cannot be synthesized in the human body and must be supplied by the diet). For all amino acids, including L-tryptophan, only the L isomer is used in protein synthesis6 and can pass across the blood-brain barrier.
How much tryptophan is safe?
Side Effects Since tryptophan is an amino acid found in many foods, it is assumed to be safe in normal quantities. It’s estimated that a typical diet contains 1 gram per day, but some individuals choose to supplement with doses of up to 5 grams per day ( 29 ).
Is there a difference between tryptophan and L-tryptophan?
There are two types of tryptophan: L-tryptophan and D-tryptophan. The only difference between the two types is the orientation of the molecule. You can get tryptophan through certain foods or a supplement in powder form.
How many mg of L-tryptophan should I take?
What is the dosage for tryptophan capsule, tablet? Adults: Take 8 to 12 grams of L-tryptophan by mouth per day. L-tryptophan should be taken in divided doses of three or four times a day. Pediatric: Safe and effective use in pediatric patients is not determined.
Does L tryptophan raise blood pressure?
Doses of L-tryptophan from 25 to 100 mg/kg increased the blood pressure of normotensive rats by 10 to 15 mm Hg. The lower doses of L-tryptophan also increased blood pressure in hypertensive rats but, in contrast, the highest dose (100 mg/kg) lowered blood pressure by 30 to 35 mm Hg.
What is L tryptophan good for?
Tryptophan (also called L-tryprophan) is an essential amino acid that acts like a natural mood regulator, since it has the ability to help the body produce and balance certain hormones naturally.