Tryptophan vs 5-HTP: A Naturopathic Doctor’s Perspective
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Published 2023-05-31
As a naturopathic doctor, I often get asked about tryptophan and 5-HTP. Which one is better and what are the differences? Here’s what you need to know:
👉 Tryptophan is an amino acid found in protein-rich foods like turkey, chicken, and eggs, and is converted into 5-HTP, which is then converted into serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. Tryptophan can also be converted down a different pathway called the kynurenin pathway, especially in those with higher levels of inflammation. Keep in mind that tryptophan also competes against other amino acids for transport across the blood brain barrier.
👉 5-HTP is a supplement that is a direct precursor to serotonin and can help with depression, anxiety, and insomnia. 5-HTP can readily cross the blood brain barrier without competition from other amino acids. 5-HTP turns into serotonin at a higher rate than tryptophan, so there is a risk of depleting dopamine. This is because the same enzyme is used to convert L-dopa into dopamine that is used to convert 5-HTP into serotonin.
Tryptophan and 5-HTP both have their place, but it depends on the unique needs of the individual and their medical history to determine which one, if any is best.
*It’s always important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
*this is not medical advice
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All Comments (21)
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it's really a skill to say something so concise without any extra words in there. Most people can't do that and waste others time with a lot of rambling. thanks for making a to-the-point video that doesn't waste time. applause
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Tryptophan is like a gentle guy and 5htp is like a sailor on leave.
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Great video. Straight to the point, no waffling on about irrelevancies like so many. Keep up the great work Doc!
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Its better to take 5htp with L-tyrosine together. Why? Because to keep balanced dopamine, with just 5htp l-dopa will low down
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Dr.Dan I can not believe the lack of knowledge in the video its so very sad because
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Thanks for the info doctor. You just left out one tiny detail... TRYTOPHAN ALSO GETS CONVERTED INTO MELATONIN.
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5HTP is Miracle treatment of OCD and depression but still you need other amino acids to balance all together, It fights infections as well , Help you on your appetite and every single process on your body !
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Straight to the point
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I read an article that a doctor from Portugal wrote. She's stating that she thinks the tryptophan to 5-HTP process to turn it into serotonin isn't working in fibromyalgia patients would taking 5-HTP help this?
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What is the difference between tryptophan that is in herbs and tryptophan that is in meat is there something way different we need to get to the bottom of it
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What if someone takes adderrall for ADD.. can they take 5 htp and if so I wonder when and how and if other amino acids should be taken with it
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What about 5htp vs SAMe
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That was very useful information thank you! What enzyme is used to convert 5-htp into seratonin and L-Dopa into Dopamine? Is there a way to supplement that to avoid hitting a deficiency?
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Can I take 200mg 5htp in the morning, tryptophan before bed, tyrosine to balance dopamine, and some taurine for giggles?
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Please elaborate how to use it for sleep?
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Both of them + L Tyrosine work awesome before breakfast. You're such a cute 🧸
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What do you recommend for someone who has sky high quinolinic acid?
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Can we take both, like Tryptophan empty stomach in the morning and 5 HTP at night? Please reply
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Hello.., if 5 HTP depletes dopamine what is the solution to maintain the balance of serotonin and dopamine?
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Hi! Are naturopaths doctors?? Does the product 5H2P help with bipolar depression??
