Tryptophan and 5 HTP are two amino acid substances. Are these two ingredients the same? How do their functions differ? Is there any relationship between the two? Today, with these questions, Nutri Avenue will talk about the topic of Tryptophan VS 5 HTP: What Are Their Differences?
What Is 5-HTP?
5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-HTP, is an amino acid substance. It acts as a precursor to 5-HT, also called 5-hydroxytryptamine, which is serotonin in the human body. In turn, it serves as a precursor to melatonin. Some double-blind studies have shown that 5-HTP can increase serotonin concentrations in the brain. It improves depression. It promotes the formation of melatonin, thereby improving sleep quality. It also suppresses appetite.
In natural plants, ghee seeds are rich in 5-hydroxytryptophan. Therefore, it is currently the main natural source for manufacturing 5-HTP powder. There is also a kind of powder produced under a synthetic process, and the raw material is tryptophan.
In addition, Nutri Avenue mainly recommends that 5-HTP powder be prepared using the fermentation method. The benefits of this preparation process include the following four points.
- First, the production of this ingredient is not limited by its natural source, namely Ghanaian seeds.
- Secondly, the price of 5-HTP Powder Fermented is stable, and the output is large.
- Additionally, the powder has very low residual solvent levels.
- Finally, in terms of appearance, the fermentation method is whiter. Its total impurities are within 0.03%.
Currently, the common 5-HTP Powder Fermented purity options are 98% and 99%.
This ingredient is not easily soluble in water but is soluble in alcohol. Its melting point is 298°C. The boiling point is 520.6℃.
What Is Tryptophan?
Tryptophan is the precursor of the important neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT). It is one of the building blocks of DNA. It is also an essential amino acid for the human body. Tryptophan is also an early form of serotonin. This neurotransmitter controls sleep patterns, appetite, and mood, among other things. The body also uses tryptophan to produce melatonin and vitamin B3. The former regulates circadian rhythms. The latter metabolizes energy and generates DNA. However, the body needs enough iron, riboflavin, and vitamin B6 to convert dietary tryptophan into vitamin B3 niacin.
Is Tryptophan Banned?
There have been no published cases of EMS in the United States since the FDA allowed the reintroduction of tryptophan supplements.
Tryptophan VS 5 HTP: What Are Their Differences?
To summarize the introduction of the two ingredients, the main differences in “Tryptophan VS 5 HTP” are the following three points.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid. It is a building block of animal and plant proteins. And 5-hydroxytryptophan is a neurotransmitter.
Tryptophan is the precursor of serotonin. It must be used for organic production. It is the only known source of supply. It also serves as a source of 5 HTP.
Not only does tryptophan directly affect serotonin levels in the brain, but it also has a mild sedative effect. It helps combat headaches, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
How To Supplement 5-HTP?
Eating foods rich in tryptophan is the best way to increase 5-HTP levels naturally. Many protein-rich foods contain tryptophan, including chicken, milk, potatoes, green vegetables, etc. However, tryptophan levels obtained from food are sometimes low. For these reasons, 5-HTP supplementation is considered an effective approach. It can increase serotonin levels in the short term. People who have trouble sleeping can also supplement vitamin B6.
Is 5-hydroxytryptophan Harmful To The Liver?
Generally, it does not cause hepatotoxicity. However, due to previous contamination issues, tryptophan-related supplements have been linked to liver problems in rare cases. Although it has been proven safe in most cases, it is still banned in some countries. Therefore, 5-hydroxytryptophan is considered a good alternative to tryptophan supplements.
What Is The Optimal Dose Of 5-HTP Powder?
On average, people can consume about 300 mg of 5-HTP per day. Usually divided into two or three times. Most data shows that taking 5-hydroxytryptophan daily for up to a year is safe.
However, some medications may interact with 5-hydroxytryptophan. Some examples include popular antidepressants such as Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paroxetine, Fluoxetine, and Zoloft.
Conclusion: Tryptophan VS 5 HTP: Which One Is Better?
5-Hydroxytryptophan 5-HTP is the precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Synthetically, it can be made from tryptophan powder. Tryptophan is an amino acid. The human body does not produce it. Due to the potential side effects of tryptophan, 5-hydroxytryptophan is sometimes considered a good substitute for tryptophan. However, 5-HTP should never be taken at the same time as antidepressants.
Nutri Avenue offers both ingredients. Feel free to contact us to support supplement development and production.
