In what forms can tryptophan be taken?
This question relates to a prescription drug. The answers below are not intended to replace discussions with your doctor. Please contact your healthcare provider for any prescription drug questions.
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Stacy Wiegman answered:You can buy tryptophan in pill or powder form as L-tryptophan. L-tryptophan is an amino acid found naturally in protein sources. The body turns L-tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and then to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, appetite and sleep, among other things.
L-tryptophan supplements are controversial because of possible safety concerns. The Food and Drug Administration took L-tryptophan supplements off the market for a time in the 1990s, after they were linked to a life-threatening syndrome that caused muscle pain, nerve damage and widespread inflammation in the body. The reaction may have been caused by contaminated L-tryptophan supplements.
You can also get tryptophan naturally by eating turkey, milk, chocolate, pumpkin, sunflower seeds and collard greens.You can buy tryptophan in pill or powder form as L-tryptophan. L-tryptophan is an amino acid found naturally in protein sources. The body turns L-tryptophan to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and then to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that... More
