What is the Difference Between 5 HTP Tryptophan and L-Tryptophan?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) and L-tryptophan are both amino acids that serve as precursors to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. They are often used as supplements to promote a good night's sleep and improve mood. However, there are some differences between the two:
- Blood-brain barrier: 5-HTP can readily cross the blood-brain barrier without competition from surrounding amino acids, making it more useful for increasing central nervous system (CNS) synthesis of serotonin than L-tryptophan.
- Efficiency: 5-HTP is generally recommended over L-tryptophan because it is converted into serotonin more efficiently and has a more pronounced antidepressant effect.
- Side effects: Both supplements can cause mild side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues, drowsiness, and lightheadedness. However, L-tryptophan may have additional side effects, including heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Sources: L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid that can be obtained from food, while 5-HTP is not found in food and must be obtained through supplementation.
Ultimately, the choice between L-tryptophan and 5-HTP depends on an individual's needs and preferences. If you are looking for a supplement to boost your mood, 5-HTP might be a better option. However, if you are looking for a regular supplement to help achieve restful sleep and boost emotional well-being, L-tryptophan could be more suitable.
Comparative Table: 5 HTP Tryptophan vs L-Tryptophan
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) and L-Tryptophan are both supplements used to promote sleep and improve mood, but they have some differences in their structure and function. Here is a table summarizing the differences between 5-HTP and L-Tryptophan:
| Feature | 5-HTP | L-Tryptophan |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 5-HTP has a hydroxyl group attached to the benzene ring, which is absent in L-Tryptophan. | L-Tryptophan is the L isomer of the tryptophan amino acid. |
| Origin | 5-HTP is not found in food and is a direct precursor to serotonin. | L-Tryptophan is found in food and is a precursor to serotonin. |
| Serotonin Synthesis | 5-HTP readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and is more effective in increasing CNS synthesis of serotonin. | L-Tryptophan requires a transport molecule to cross the blood-brain barrier and is less effective in increasing CNS synthesis of serotonin. |
| Uses | 5-HTP is commonly used to boost mood and promote sleep. | L-Tryptophan is also used to promote sleep and improve mood. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. | Rare cases of Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome (EMS) have been reported. |
In summary, both 5-HTP and L-Tryptophan are used to promote sleep and improve mood by affecting serotonin synthesis. However, 5-HTP is more effective in increasing CNS synthesis of serotonin since it readily crosses the blood-brain barrier. Ultimately, the choice between the two supplements depends on individual needs and preferences, as they both offer distinct advantages.
- L-tyrosine vs Tyrosine
- L-Theanine vs Theanine
- Taurine vs L Taurine
- N-acetyl Tyrosine vs L-tyrosine
- Melatonin vs Serotonin
- Phenylalanine vs Tyrosine
- L-phenylalanine vs DL-phenylalanine
- Trypsin vs Chymotrypsin
- Pyridoxal 5 Phosphate vs Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
- SSRI vs Tricyclic Antidepressants
- Dopamine vs Serotonin
- L Glutamine vs Glutathione
- Thyroxine vs Triiodothyronine
- L Carnitine vs Acetyl L Carnitine
- Glutamine vs L-Glutamine
- Glutamine vs L-Glutamine
- Arginine vs L-Arginine
- Serotonin vs Endorphins
- Lysine vs L-lysine