What is the Difference Between L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP

According to L-tryptophan information gotten from experts on the subject, the difference between L-tryptophan & 5-HTP is explained below:

L-tryptophan is simply an amino acid that naturally occurs in plant and animal proteins. After L-tryptophan is absorbed into the human body, it is then converted into 5-hydroxytrptophan (better known as 5-HTP) and lastly, it is converted into serotonin Sam-E effects.

According to L-tryptophan information, both 5-HTP and L-tryptophan have the very same uses and the same L-tryptophan side effects. There is just one difference between L-tryptophan and 5-HTP and that difference is that L-tryptophan is converted into 5-HTP and also do B12 vitamins put you in a good mood.

Food Sources of L-Tryptophan

The following are rich sources of L-tryptophan:

•    Red meat (Beef)
•    Chicken breasts
•    Turkey breasts
•    Salmon
•    Tuna
•    Snapper
•    Lamb
•    Scallops
•    Cod
•    Soybeans
•    Halibut
•    Calf’s liver
•    Shrimp

Other great sources of L-tryptophan include foods such as lima beans, brown rice, milk, tofu, kidney beans, green peas, onions, mustard greens, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, winter squash, kelp, tomatoes, cabbage, spinach, almonds, sesame seeds, eggs and walnuts.

The 5-HTP compound is known to boost brain’s production of serotonin. Serotonin is known to affect appetite, sleep, feelings of pain and sexual behavior. Also used as a natural antidepressant, 5-HTP is employed in treating conditions where serotonin plays a major role.

L-tryptophan and 5-HTP are used as a natural antidepressant for patients who suffer from depression. Headaches, insomnia (sleeping disorders) and anxiety are some of the conditions that can be treated using L-tryptophan and 5-HTP. These two can also be used in order to treat patients who suffer from PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), fibromyalgia and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). However, it is important to first consult one’s doctor in order to avoid L-tryptophan side effects.

5-HTP and L-Tryptophan Side Effects

Although, L-tryptophan is considered as a natural antidepressant, it also comes with its share of side effects which include:

•    Stomach upsets
•    Nausea
•    Diarrhea
•    Heartburn
•    Drowsiness
•    Sexual problems
•    Muscular problem
•    Vomiting

Mixing L-tryptophan or 5-HTP supplements with the following medications is known to also cause unpleasant interactions:

•    Antidepressants
•    Benzodiazepines
•    Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI’s)
•    Meperidine (Demerol)
•    Phenothiazine Drugs,
•    Triptans,
•    Tramadol/Acetaminophen (Ultracet) or Tramadol (ER, Rybix, Ryzolt, ODT, Ultram)
•    St. John’s Wort

There is also a pretty strong concern that L-tryptophan and 5-HTP may also have a side effect popularly called EMS (Eosinophilia Myalgia Syndrome). This condition is one that involves blood abnormalities and tenderness of the muscles.

L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP as Intoxicants

It is important to note that one cannot get high off L-tryptophan and 5-HTP! There are those who search for a safer way to get “high”, they then buy supposedly safe drugs that will help them get high without harming them. Those drugs labelled as L-tryptophan MDMA or L-tryptophan ecstasy do not offer any kind of hallucinogenic effect. These so-called L-tryptophan ecstasy or L-tryptophan MDMA pills are just harmful street drugs – they could be mixed with anything!

Some branded L-tryptophan MDMA or L-tryptophan ecstasy pills that can be gotten online internet, on street corners and in night clubs are high dosages of 5-HTP supplements – there is a distinct and intoxicating effect if 5-HTP is taken in high doses. As mentioned earlier, taking 5-HTP in high doses will lead to serious side effects.