Replied By Violet (Atlanta, Georgia) on 03/29/2008
For Jill--yes 50 mg of 5htp did make me feel anxious, flushed, and a little weird. I now take just 25 mg a day and that makes me sleep much better...the calming effect still feels a little odd to me, but I think this supplement has raised my mood, which was extremely depressed. I would suggest lowering your dose. A lot of info. on the web suggests taking very high dosages a day and I think this may be based on clinical trials, which use a lot of a drug to see the effects quickly. This is not necessarily advisable for everyday folks.Replied By Rolf (Los Angeles, Ca, Usa) on 07/25/2012
Interestingly enough, and rather contrary to the popular marketing perspective, much of the research on tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan documents that it isn't particularly beneficial for insomnia and depression.
Worst of all, there are many distressing side effects from the use of (prolonged) tryptophan supplements, such as cancer promotion. I wrote an article on this, "Tryptophan Side Effects: L-Tryptophan Is Far From Harmless", which you can access at http://www.supplements-and-health.com/tryptophan-side-effects.html
Replied By Quercus (Socals) on 05/13/2014
When one reads about studies concerning either the good or bad about a supplement, it would be wise to ascertain who paid for those studies. Also, it is a good idea to look at the number of participants. While there can be a lot good info gleemed off the internet, there are also a lot of information that is untrue, out of context or without full disclosure. Some websites promote the image of being impartial, when they are not.
As with any prescription anti-depressant, it would be wise when taking a new supplement to start out slowly.
Replied By Denise (Us) on 12/17/2018
I can't agree with this more, especially about the treating symptoms instead of looking at possible causes. For the first time in my 66 years, I am looking at my whole food intake, and exercise habits. I've changed a lot already, and honestly, for me it isn't about living longer, it's just about feeling as good as possible, and doing the things I love for as long as I am here.
I am starting to be hooked on healthy, food choices, and if I feel I am not getting enough of some nutrient, I am supplementing with vitamins and minerals. I don't expect to cure every single issue I have, but many of those issues are improving and that is enough for me to stick with this. Love EC, and the people here that share what they've tried, and what they've been successful with. I know we all are unique so I also never expect something to work for me, or at least not at the same dose etc.
