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L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP: what is the difference?
Both are building blocks the body uses to make serotonin, and later melatonin. They are related, but they are not the same and cannot be swapped milligram for milligram.
| L-Tryptophan | 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | An essential amino acid from food | Made in the body from tryptophan |
| Path to serotonin | First converted to 5-HTP; not all of it becomes serotonin | One step closer to serotonin. More direct does not mean stronger or safer |
| Vitamin B6 | Needed for the final step | Needed for the conversion to serotonin |
| Possible side effects | Stomach upset, dizziness, sleepiness | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |