L-tryptophan, or 5-HTP, is an essential amino acid that increases the production of serotonin in the central nervous system. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite and sleep, and is often used to treat cases of depression or anxiety.
Thus, l-tryptophan can be used as a dietary supplement to help treat stress and hyperactivity in children, as well as to treat sleep disorders or mild to moderate depression in adults. Often, l-tryptophan can even be found in the mixture of some remedies for depression and in the formula of some powdered baby milk.
Price and where to buy
The price of l-tryptophan varies a lot according to the dosage, number of capsules and the brand purchased, however, on average the prices vary between 50 and 120 reais.
What is it for
L-tryptophan is indicated when there is a lack of serotonin in the central nervous system, as in the case of depression, insomnia, anxiety or hyperactivity in children.
How to take
The dose of l-tryptophan varies according to the problem to be treated and age, and should therefore always be guided by a doctor or nutritionist. However, the general guidelines indicate:
- Child stress and hyperactivity: 100 to 300 mg per day; Depression and sleep disorders: 1 to 3 grams per day.
Although it can be found in the form of an isolated supplement, l-tryptophan is more easily found in combination with medicines or other substances such as magnesium, for example.
Possible side effects
Some of the most common side effects of prolonged use of l-tryptophan include nausea, headache, dizziness, or muscle stiffness.
Who should not take
There are no contraindications for the use of l-tryptophan, however, pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as people using antidepressants, should consult their physician before starting 5-HTP supplementation.
