There are some precautions to be aware of when taking supplemental amino acids. These are reprinted from The Mood Cure (2004) with permission from Julia Ross. Consult a knowledgeable practitioner before taking any supplemental amino acids if any of the following statements apply to you:
- React to supplements, foods or medications with unusual or uncomfortable symptoms
- Have a serious physical illness, particularly cancer
- Have severe liver or kidney problems
- Have an ulcer (amino acids are slightly acidic)
- Have schizophrenia or other mental illness
- Pregnant or nursing
- Taking any medications for mood problems, particularly MAO inhibitors, or more than one SSRI
Also, please be aware of the following precautions in regard to specific amino acids and consult with a knowledgeable practitioner if in doubt:
- Overactive thyroid/Grave’s disease: tyrosine, DLPA
- Phenylketonuria (PKU): tyrosine, DLPA
- Melanoma: tyrosine, DLPA
- High Blood pressure: tyrosine, DLPA
- Migraine headaches: tyrosine, DLPA
- Low blood pressure: GABA, taurine
- High blood pressure and on blood pressure medications: GABA, taurine (Sept 2023: research)
- Asthma: tryptophan, melatonin
- Severe depression: melatonin
- Bipolar disorder: tyrosine, DLPA, glutamine
- Cancer: there is a question around glutamine (some research shows it’s beneficial some research suggests avoiding it – check with your oncologist if you are currently undergoing treatment)
Amino Acids and SSRIs
If you’re currently taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), don’t take either 5-HTP or tryptophan unless you’re working with a knowledgeable practitioner. Taking 5-HTP or tryptophan with either of these classes of antidepressants may cause serotonin syndrome, an adverse reaction characterized by agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, and blood pressure fluctuations. If you experience these symptoms, stop taking 5-HTP or tryptophan immediately. When I have clients who are taking a single SSRI who might also benefit from tryptophan or 5-HTP, I have them take the amino acid six hours apart from their medication—after obtaining approval from their doctor and with their doctor monitoring for adverse reactions. Please do the same. I also recommend the chapter on antidepressants and amino acids in The Mood Cure: The 4-Step Program to take charge of your Emotions
The above (except for the cancer/glutamine statement) is an excerpt from my book The Antianxiety Food Solution: How the Foods You Eat Can Help You Calm Your Anxious Mind, Improve Your Mood, and End Cravings
Here is a link to the information shared during my interview on the Anxiety Summit season 2: Targeted individual amino acids for eliminating anxiety: practical applications
Dear Trully,
I have followed your Anxiety Summit and i am very much interested if you please could send your comments in regards to the use of Taurine pills, 500mg a day, for anxiety, fears and related sleeping problems. I am taking this together with Magnesium Citrate for relaxing purposes in accordance with Dr.Carolyn Dean research Thank you very much.
Kind Regards,
Aluizio Sampaio
Hi Aluizio
I like taurine as a calming amino acid and 500mg is a typical starting amount.
Trudy
Hi Trudy, Thank you very much for yor reply.
My question was related to my feeling some fatigue and mental heaviness after taking one pill at breakfast. Perhaps this has nothing to do with the taurine but is due to my bad sleeping performance with too many wakeups during the night and a kind of a overactive mind process. A friend of mine recommended me to take L-Tryptophane 500 with B6 and B3 vitamins to help with thhis sleeping problem. Please give me your oppinion.
Kind regards. Aluizio
Aluizio
If a client suspects that something is causing something like fatigue or mental heaviness then they would try a few days without it and see how they feel, then add it back and see what happens. I suggest doing the same.
I suggest doing the amino acid questionnaire and to decide if sleep issues may be related to low serotonin. If yes, then 500mg tryptophan is the starting dose I typically use. Keep in mind, sleep issues can have multiple causes – low serotonin or low GABA or high cortisol or food sensitivities or parasites or low blood sugar or caffeine etc – so I’d look into these factors too.
Trudy
Is taurine ok to start while still on an antidepressant? I’m currently down to 10mg of Lexapro and wondered if I could start this?
Thank you!
Joy
I am not aware of any issues with taurine and antidepressants being used together
Don’t forget all the rest – diet and real whole food, quality protein, no gluten, no caffeine, eat to control blood sugar, address other nutritional deficiencies etc
Hi Trudy. I have your book the anti anxiety food solution. Could you please tell me why tryptophan and melatonin are contraindicated for people with asthma?
Trudy,
I will do the amino acid questionnaire as per your suggestion, but I am not sure if I know where to find it. My last question.What if I take 500 mg L Tryptophan Plus B6 and B3 suplements as well as GABA and see what happens to my fears and anxiety, if they disminished to let me have a good sleep all night without too much wakeups as at present. I tested for cortisol a year ago and it was normal.As per food, blood sugar and parasites I am sure they all right. I will try to find the questionnaire. Kind regards, Aluizio
I added a link to the questionnaire to this blog. I do have many clients taking both tryptophan and GABA for sleep issues.
Trudy
Trudy,
Thank you very much for your help.
Aluizio
Trudy,
Listened to you on the latest summit, thank you! Would DPA have the same potential side effects for a migraine sufferer as DLPA? I have just started Gaba and am planning to eventually use tryptophan. I am going to read your book as well! Again,thank you.
Kim
Kimberly
DPA does not
To start with just a small amount of tryptophan, can you open a capsule and take only part of the contents? How would it be taken – in non protein food or dissolved in water?
How many days should one try a supplement before adding another?
Hi Sharon
For my “pixie-dust” very sensitive clients, I have them open a capsule and just take a dab on a wet finger. For more than that they will mix in banana or just take it straight. It doesn’t taste very good though. Lidtke does make a chewbable 100mg tryptophan so that is an option too.
A week is a good time to trial the aminos.
Trudy
Thank you Trudy! These summits and the ability to ask questions is so helpful. Thank you for all your work in putting these together.
Why do you say no melatonin for severe depression? What is the precaution about?
Thank you for these awesome summits, I am learning SO much!
Hi Darlene
Glad you’re enjoying the summits!
The melatonin precaution is a cautionary one to watch out for. If depression gets worse then stop the melatonin. It’s not something I’ve seen an issue with. And recent animal research find it helps with depression http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25515595
Trudy
Trudy, Thankyou very much for your generosity in sharing your all your information and expert opinions in the area of neurotransmitters, etc. I have listened to your many webinars and have your book and find all your information very empowering and extremely useful.
Rgds, Sharon
Wonderful – thanks Sharon!
I tried glutamine for 5 days taking the capsule apart and using a portion. I had what I thought was a severe cold with sneezing, runny eyes and nose days 2-4. I also had a significant rise in blood pressure and a headache. All the symptoms resolved when I stopped the glutamine. I take Zoloft in the morning and used the glutamine in the afternoon. Was it perhaps an allergic reaction. Thank you for all you do!
Lyn
Wow, I have never heard of anyone having a reaction to glutamine like you describe but anything is possible. Glutamine is very tolerated by most people so I wonder if it could be the brand, fillers or perhaps a glutamate/MSG type reaction. If you’re super sensitive to MSG that would be a clue.
Finally, the starting amount is 500mg and maybe that’s too much and a dab or two would suffice?
Trudy
My fingers swell a little when I eat MSG. Perhaps it was an interaction with the massage and hypnotherapy I did. Maybe it was all too much. Thanks you for the reply.
Dear Trudy
Thank you so much for this precautionary information. I am interested in trying GABA for anxiety as it is strongly indicated from your amino acid questionnaire. I was going to purchase the source naturals product GABA calm, however I noticed it contains 25mg of N-acetyl L-tyrosine. As I have previously had a malignant melanoma, I wondered whether 25mg was a large enough dose to warrant avoiding the product? If so is there another product you would recommend?
Many thanks,
Sarah.
Sarah
I do not have my clients with a history of melanoma use any tyrosine – so do not recommend GABA Calm. I like a 250mg GABA (not pharmaGABA or phenibut) opened on to the tongue. I’ll be reviewing specific products later in the summit so stay tuned
Trudy
Thanks so much for your reply Trudy, I’ll listen out for that info 🙂
I just recently started back on an SSRI after 2 years off of Paxil. I have many physical symptoms with heart palpitations, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, muscle tension and some joint pains. I worry constantly about my heart health.
My question is, with most of my anxiety being physical, since I just started a low dose (25mg zoloft) SSRI, if I check with my doctor, would there be an issue with taking GABA as well? Would there be any drug interaction that you know of?
Hi Tony
It’s not clear to me if these symptoms started before or after going back on the SSRI.
If you had them before these are areas I’d investigate: low GABA, low blood sugar, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, low magnesium for starters.
I can say that GABA is not an issue with SSRIs but it’s always good to work with your doctor.
Trudy
Hi Trudy,
I struggle from depression, anxiety and insomnia.
I’m on Celexa 20mg per day and just tapered off Effexor XR 75mg.
I take Celexa in the morning so I want to try 5-HTP or Tryptophan to help with my issues and some time soon start tapering off Celexa.
Is this a good idea?
Just found your website and summits and want to thank you for all the information and help. I think is a God send.
P.S.- Sorry about my English, I’m from MX (but live in Minnesota).
Sonia
You’re welcome! I have my clients talk their doctor if they are on a SSRI and want to add 5-HTP or Tryptophan. Once they have stopped the SSRI then it’s not an issue of possible serotonin syndrome. Just be aware that you can still get some residual side-effects from stopping these meds.
Trudy
I have been trying tryptophan in the evening and sometimes get sleepy immediately and other times, it takes an hour or so, but altogether is fine. I don’t sleep all night, so I thought I would try GABA. I took only a small portion of the Source Naturals GABA Calm and felt very relaxed, but then felt nearly “stoned” for the entire next day. Then I tried an even tinier amount and the same thing happened. Could I not be getting rid of it properly, somehow, after the night has passed?
I have lowish blood pressure, but no problems with it.
I have tried adding theonine with the tryptophan and that seems to help, but I keep waking at 2 or 3. Have tried also working on adrenal supplements to bring that down at night. Any suggestions on what to add to tryptophan? I had tried 200 mg at night and 100 in the day. Perhaps it is the brand. I just ordered Lidtke, to see if their pure supplement has a different effect.
I am not anxious, but may also have blood sugar problems. Am thinking to try Glutamine next. Do get migraines sometimes, so tryrosine is not good.
Any ideas on why GABA would make me a zombie for so long?
Thanks!
Hallie
We all have unique needs and too much can make someone very “stoned”
I do prefer Lidtke tryptophan over any of the other brands
You mention adrenals – if you have high cortisol and it’s not the neurotransmitters then the aminos won’t work at all. Seriphos does a nice job lowering high cortisol.
Trudy
Hi Trudy,
thank you!!!! thank you!!!! For this amazing summit!!!!!
Do you know any practitioners in Sydney, Australia that practice like you???
Also having pyroluria, mthfr, fatigue, brain fog and leaky gut I’m confused if I should be eating grains or not?
Thanks
Berni
Is there one published study that has looked into either Tryptophan or 5-HTP and has found any toxicity when used with SSRIs? I don’t think there is one. Physicians have passed this idea about serotonin syndrome down from year to year but I have never seen a link to a study that supports it. Since the drug companies themselves admit that SSRIs actually deplete neurotransmitters, it is far more likely that instead of being contraindicated with SSRIs, these nutrients are actually indicated.
What is the best multivitamin you recommend? I just ordered your amazing aminos home study program and ordered your book. Should I wait until I read the book and do the program before I purchase any amino acids or supplements or which amino acids and supplements should I purchase right away. I have high sugar addiction, am very anxious most of my life with depression. I am not currently on any medications.
Hi Mary
You can find all the supplements here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
I do hope you find that the program ends your sugar addiction and anxiety
Hi Trudy,
Thank you for your newsletters and website. I am emailing on behalf of a friend who lives off the mainland. She recently received her blood tests results.
B6: Twice above normal. She is Not taking any B6 supplements, nor any other supplements.
Her provider does not know how that could happen, as B6 is water soluble. Yet my friend is exhibiting almost all of the effects of abnormal high B6. Blood test confirms high level.
Her homocysteine is normal.
Her RBC folate is normal.
Her BUN is twice above normal range though.
Her liver panel shows normal.
GFR normal.
Please, if you would, would you point to a blood test and/or something that she can go to address why she has this high B6 when she takes no supplements, and except for her BUN rate, the rest of her tests are normal (CMP included).
Thanks!
DG
I’m afraid I don’t have an answer for you. I don’t look at serum B6 as a useful marker
Hi Trudy
I have just finished your amazing book Anti Anxiety Food Solutions. I have been on 10 mg Lexapro for 10 years for anxiety and it has worked brilliantly but I do not want to stay on it forever and knowing that there is a natural alternative I want to get off it. Everything I read about the withdrawal symptoms is frightening. Do you have any advice about how to withdraw without the horrible side effects or can you recommend any practitioners in England who is knowledgeable in this field? I have been unable to find anyone.Thanks
Mary
Hi Mary
Many people have side-effects when withdrawing from antidepressants, many do not. I have my clients work with their doctors to get a taper protocol and we work to increase low neurotransmitters before starting any taper of medications (with the doctor’s approval).
Supporting someone nutritionally and addressing other possible concerns (like adrenals, food sensitivities etc) all help too.
I don’t have a UK recommendation but do work long distance if that is an option. You can find details here https://www.everywomanover29.com/services.html
Hi Trudy!
I have been on SSRI and other medication for 10 years, but now only on citalopram 5mg (have decreased the dose from 25mg in the beginning of 2015.
I feel now very depressed but would not like to go the same route with higher dose of medication once again. I would like to try amino acids, is it safe to try because I have so small dose of SSRI? Is there someone expert I can get help from so nothing bad happen. I live in Sweden but doctors here don´t work with amino acid therapy.
/A
Hi Anders
I have my clients work with their doctors to get a taper protocol and we work to increase low neurotransmitters before starting any taper of medications (with the doctor’s approval).
Supporting my client nutritionally and addressing other possible concerns (like adrenals, low GABA, low endorphins, low blood sugar, food sensitivities etc) all help too.
I don’t have a referral for you in Sweden but do work long distance if that is an option. You can find details here https://www.everywomanover29.com/services.html
Hi Trudy, just finished your book and it is wonderful. I just don’t know where to start. Life long fear, anxiety, depression. I also may have leaky gut, I just got parasites 4 months ago which I am treating with Young Living Essential Oils…all organic wild crafted. I must go very slow due to Chronic Fatigue for 16 years. I have adrenal issues. I just don’t know where to start first. My Integrative doctor told me to go get L- Glutamine for my gut. I found some that has no fillers since I am MCS and allergic to almost everything. What do I start first. If I do a phone consultation with you, what would this cost me to get me started. Thank you for writing such a wonderful book. Gloria
Hi Trudy, I have low gaba and low serotonin. I also have a mild case of asthma. Should I try tryptophan and melatonin at low does and see how it effects the asthma? Or is there something else that can be substituted?
Veronica
With mild asthma tryptophan and melatonin are often tolerated and can simply be stopped if there is an issue. I always like to start super low for clients like this. And have vitamin C on hand to negate any bad effects.
There are many approaches to raise serotonin – the aminos are just one. Others include exercise, eating real whole food + grass-fed meat + wild fish etc, figuring out if gluten sensitivity is lowring serotonin, light therapy etc
What is the glutamine/cancer connection? I had never heard this before.
Laura
There is conflicting research about glutamine and cancer – some studies say it’s beneficial, other say to avoid it. If you have cancer I would check with your doctor or err on the side of caution and avoid it.
I have agoraphobia and anxiety my MD suggested GABA for me . I am on 30 mgs of Paxil and on Ativan 1 mg 3 X A day How much GABA would I take to start I am very sensitive which time of day ? which Brand ? I am in Canada but do have some access to the US thanks so much Trudy
Carol
I suggest working with the MD who suggested GABA. I do like to start low with GABA (125mg) and have very sensitive clients open a capsule and just use a dab or 2 to start. You can find some brands here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
Re; Amino Acids Precautions: TRYPTOPHAN
Tryptophan should NOT be taken by those with GI infections and/or inflammation. In an inflammatory state, TRYPTOPHAN will NOT convert to Seratonin, but will go through an alternate pathway resulting in production of QUINOLINIC ACID which produces a far greater anxiety state. Quinolinic Acid iinflammatory to the brain.
Regina
Thanks for sharing. I am aware that some practitioners are not in favor of tryptophan for this reason. Dr Shaw at Great Plains lab is one of them.
If tryptophan (or any supplement) increases anxiety it can simply be stopped. I feel it’s certainly worth a trial to see if there are benefits and a reduction in anxiety.
If there are concerns, testing via an organic acids test/OAT is an option. However I have seen a number of individuals with high quinolinic acid on the OAT and they still do well on tryptophan so I’m not sure how much of an issue this is.
Can you please share what you have seen/experienced personally and/or with clients/patients? And what you use as a marker of inflammation (hsCRP?) and GI infections (stool test: candida/parasites/SIBO/food sensitivities?) – I’m afraid this would rule out the majority of my clients 🙂 many of whom do wonderfully with tryptophan
Dear Trudy,
I am a 30 year old female from Belgium and I suffer from chronic health problems for 10 years now.
I came across your website, looking online for answers. I already spend a lot of money on doctors, therapists, homeopaths, supplements etc without getting any better.
I am stuck and I am desperate. I can’t even go to work because I am so tired.
These are my main complaints,
Chronic fatigue, depression, (severe) histamine intolerance, gut dysbiosis, low thyroid, adrenal fatigue, pms, hormonal imbalances, etc
Unfortunately I take antidepressants (Paroxetine) 10mg a day. They were prescribed to me at the age of 19 when I suffered from anorexia (now under control). I must say they helped me cope with my eating disorder at that time, but now I can’t seem to stop this medication. I tried it twice already very slow and controlled, but I felt horrible (anxious, depressed, crying all the time, worsening of OCD, BDD, …) so I was forced to restart. The thought of having to take this for the rest of my life, freaks me out because it can’t be healthy!
I tried 5-HTP at the brief moment I stopped with the ssri, but I got major heart palpitations and felt very anxious, so I stopped.
Recently I took an online skype appointment and they highly suspected undermethylation because of all my symptoms and anorexia past plus good tolerance of ssri’s. Plus kryptopyrrole disease (I got tested before and it was slightly elevated, but the night before the test I had to go to the bathroom so it wasn’t my first morning urine + I had been taking zinc for a while).
She recommanded taking 100mg of b6, 50 mg of P5P, 30mg zinc, 2g of l-methionine, calcium/magnesium 500/250 mg a day.
However since I started this treatment, I suffer again from heavy heart palpitations and I feel nervous and anxious and even more exhausted. Is this normal? When I tried to contact the therapist for help, she suggested I booked a new skype consult (I payed 285 dollar!! for the first one and I don’t have the money right now).
I am scared I am doing something wrong.
Could you please give me some advice?
Thank you very much,
Inge
Inge
I’m sorry to hear you’re having problems. I use zinc, vitamin B6/P5P and evening primrose oil for clients with pyroluria and these don’t seem high amounts but we are all unique and some people need very small amounts. Calcium/magnesium doesn’t typical cause increased anxiety. I’ve not had someone take methione so can’t comment on this. When someone has a reaction like this I look at the amounts, the quality of the products (no fillers, no gluten, no soy etc) and recommend doing one at a time so we can figure out if it’s one particular nutrient that is the issue.
Dear Trudy,
I have been told by that I have early onset CRPS in my left hand and wrist.
The consultant I have seen at an acute pain clinic at St.Thomas’ Hospital in London has prescribed Pregabalin in a 75 mg dose to be taken twice a day for two weeks and then increasing to doubling the dose after that.
I will be doing daily exercises at home as well as having physiotherapy.
Having looked at the leaflet that accompanies the Lyrica Pregabalin i’m concerned at the extensive list of potential side effects.
I would like to know if there is a different natural product you could recommend that would not risk the side effects of the prescribed product.
My wife (who subscribes to your site) is also concerned and suggested writing to you to explore the possibility of a Gaba supplement that can be less risky?
Just in case CRPS is Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome
Jeremy
I don’t know much about CRPS (http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/reflex_sympathetic_dystrophy/detail_reflex_sympathetic_dystrophy.htm) but would suggest a functional medicine workup to find the root cause. Some factors to consider: gluten; low B12 (if nerve issues); low GABA/low serotonin/low endorphins and the respective amino acids (do the questionnaire https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/); Lyme or other infections; gut health etc.
Natural anti-inflammatories may also help – a product with turmeric, ginger, boswellia and proteolytic enzymes. I really like DFH Inflammatone https://www.emersonecologics.com/Products/EmersonMain/PID-INF060.aspx
Thank you so much for your time and suggestions.
I think maybe I was not clear in my description of my circumstances.
I sustained a work injury resulting from an accident to my left hand. I have an inflamed/swollen thumb, index and middle finger with vastly restricted movement.
There has not been any significant healing since Nov due to CRPS, from my understanding the nervous system is still activated as if still in danger hence my hand not healing and the brain thinking my hand is still in danger, hence the doctor prescribing me Pregabalin Lyrica to alter the signals from my brain to the hand and vice versa.
Due to your knowledge of GABA and GABA products, I wondered if you have any suggestion of any Gaba safer alternative to the medication above or could you share your knowledge if taking Gaba in general has side effects I need to consider.
I am having cranial sacral treatment as well as looking at my nutrition here in the UK.
Thank you for your consideration and time
Jeremy
Thanks for clarifying Jeremy
Some of my previous comment still apply as low GABA/low serotonin/low endorphins can all affect pain levels and a trial of each of the respective amino acids (GABA, tryptophan and DPA) would be worth doing to see if any help with the pain.
The natural anti-inflammatories I mentioned would be imperative + healing nutrients (zinc, vitamin C etc) + getting enough quality protein and healthy fats in the diet.
One more thing – find an OT or PT who is a certified hand therapist
Do you have any recommendations for online resources/summits/articles/videos in regards to nutritional and supplement information for pregnancy? I am on the pyroluria protocol and would like more information about how to sustain all the health and mental benefits I have received from being on the protocol and would like to be informed as to what practitioners recommend for conception and what is okay to do during pregnancy. Any information you have/recommendation for knowledge resources along those lines would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks and much appreciation for getting this information to people!
Gabriela
I’m afraid none of the aminos or the pyroluria protocol have been tested during pregnancy and breast-feeding. I’d consider exercise, yoga, guided imagery, heartmath, meditation and dietary changes (like no gluten, sugar, caffeine) and improving gut health with sauerkraut and yogurt, controlling blood sugar with a good breakfast that includes protein and eating grass-fed read meat and wild fish like salmon/sardines.
My daughter has anxiety and has for several years now. She is 19 years old, about 5′ 9″ and weighs about 116-120 pds. I was reading about some supplements that may help but it sounds like some of them may also lower blood pressure. My daughter’s blood pressure had been low in the past (not sure if it still is now). I don’t want anything to lower her blood pressure even more. Do
you think any of these supplements would be okay for her to try? I also printed out your Amino Acids Mood Questionnaire and will have her look it over.
Here’s the supplements that looked helpful:
Calms Forte
Theanine – Web MD says it seems to lower blood pressure. I have a product called Suntheanine by Stress-Relax which is L-Theanine 100 mg chewable tablets
Inisitol
B3
Valerian
Yogi Kava Stress Relief Tea
Pharma Gaba
I appreciate any information you could give me.
E.B.
With low blood pressure you want to watch the use of GABA and theanine. I have yet to see it an issue unless too much is used and then I just have my client cut back.
I have normal blood pressure, but in the low range. Would GABA still be an issue? I tried GABA once at 100 mg and had a bad response-increased anxiety. L-theanine seems to work fine, but I need to use it very frequently to sustain the effect. I was thinking of qiving GABA one more try, maybe at 20 mg to see if that helps??
Hi Trudy,
I just ordered some Zinc, B6, and L-Tryptophan for my Pyroluria. Just one question as I am seeing conflicting opinions on the internet.
Should I take the B6 and zinc together or separate? (for best absorption/etc.) Some sites say that the zinc and the B6 would compete for absorption if taken together.
I know I take the L-Tryptophan before bed, but what about the timing for the zinc and the B6?
Thanks for your help.
Melissa
Melissa
I haven’t seen issues with B6 and zinc taken together. Could you share a link to where you’ve read this so I can stay informed? Thanks
Below is the link:
http://www.curezone.org/forums/am.asp?i=1255950
Here is the post that concerns me:
“I have pyroluria and got much worse on b6 and zinc taken at the same time. A doctor told me they combine and destroy each other they form a compound and are depleted . Take them at least 10 hours apart. You can confirm this by calling Vitamin diagnostics lab. The doctor there said the same thing . You are making yourself sick. I got hives from the sun when I took the two together. I got depressed, forgot things got carpel tunnel .I told the lab a doctor said there is no information to prove that and The lab said the doctors don’t read the information they are sent. My kryptopyrrole levels were 200. I have been though some bad times with this and I thank God I found a doctor who knew what he was talking about. I see too much of this problem on these blogs and had to write this . I hope people see it and get help. God bless”
Do you think this has any merit? (not taking zinc and B6 together??????) I am also going to start taking magnesium. Does that need to be taken separately from the zinc and the b6? This is all very confusing….Thanks for your help.
Melissa
I thought it was going to be a research link or blog post from another health professional 🙂 I don’t discount feedback from individuals as we all experience things differently but based on my experience taking them together has not been an issue. This approach is also based on Carl Pfeiffer’s original work and Joan Matthews-Larson’s work and colleagues too. I work with Vitamin Diagnostics and have not heard this either.
I typically have my clients take magnesium at night.
Hi Trudy! I just recently discovered your website and am so hopeful that I might be able to find freedom after twelve years of panic attacks! From the Amino Acid Mood Questionnaire, I seem to be low in all areas. This is my question: I have not personally had melanoma, but I have a VERY strong family history of melanoma. My father has had eight malignant melanomas, and half a dozen other family members have had melanoma. Should I follow the melanoma precaution? If so, what can I use instead of GABA Calm? Thank you so much!!
Laurie
I would be cautious and follow the melanoma precaution. There are other great GABA products that I have my clients open and use sublingually. You can find some here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
Keep in mind that low serotonin is also a factor with panic attacks – here is one of many blogs on 5-HTP https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/5-htp-anxiety-depression-insomnia/
Please let us know how you are doing
Hi Trudy-
I bought your book and it has helped me with some issues. I am one of those people that are highly sensitive to meds. Vitamin B stress gives me anxiety and panic attacks. I can’t take vicodine or codeine for pain,etc.
I just was tested for adrenal fatigue and hormones via saliva. My early morning cortisol is through the roof and then I taper off very low for the rest of the day. My estone and progesterone are both high. I have tried gaba a few times in small amounts and tryptophan(the lidke one
you recommend) and it seems to have an adverse effect. I am gluten fee, not a lot of sugar.
I was prescribed Ativan(.50) for sleep when needed and that seems to calm me down. Any advice on what I can try to stop my anxiety and panic attacks? I have anxiety induced higher blood pressure when I am having a panic attack. This has been going on and off with anxiety for the last year and a half. I am desperate for advice and help!
Of course my regular doc wanted to put me on anti-depressants. I tried 1 a few months ago and had a panic attack and knew right away that that wasn’t the right option. I bought your book shortly after. I also tried l-theanine and that causes me to be wired.
Thank you,
Heather
Heather
I am sorry to hear what you are going through. It’s hard to know all the contributing factors but if we were working together I’d focus on 2 things: (1) lowering the high cortisol – I use Interplexus Seriphos 2-3 hours before the high cortisol and (2) helping you to get off the Ativan as this could be your trigger. Here is a blog about benzodiazepines and an attempt to get informed consent https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/benzodiazepine-informed-consent/ There are some links in the blog with more info on benzos and my site has many more (use the search box). Many people on benzos and tapering off them (which must be done really really slowly) can’t tolerate supplements.
I forgot to mention I have trouble falling and staying sleep.
The high cortisol and the benzos could do this – but hopefully the Seriphos will start to lower the high cortisol and help
I have an update. I have been taking Seriphos for about 3 weeks and sleeping better as well no ativan for 2 1/2 weeks.
I am tolerating gaba but have only tried small amounts and am better able to tolerate B6. I forgot to mention I scored high on your pyloria test. I have been taking zinc as well.
I am looking to help with anxiety and stress. How much/when should I take the Gaba? I have been using Enzymatic Therapy and opening the capsule. It seems most of my anxiety is in the morning when I get up through early afternoon. Thank you Trudy!!!
Hi Trudy,
I have to take pretty much all of the amino acids and I am wondering if there is any new information out in regard to taking multiple amino acids and which ones you can and can’t take together. I am aware that the other amino acids compete with Tryptophan. But are there any others I should be aware of??
Thanks
Karen
Karen
They just can’t be taken with a meal that has protein or at the same time as a free form amino acid blend. If you’re doing tryptophan mid-afternoon and evening, and tyrosine morning, mid-morning and mid-afternoon too, I suggest taking the mid-afternoon tyrosine a bit earlier than the tryptophan.
Hi Trudy,
This interests me as well. Just to be clear, it’s okay to take tyrosine with DLPA and with Glutamine upon waking (and I also take this mid morning). Then my amino blend with breakfast and my other supps. As I get anxiety when I head to work my health practisioner also wants me to add in some 5-HTP. Is it okay to take with the DLPA and tyrosine?
Then mid afternoon I should separate tyrosine and tryptophan – but I can have GABA with tryptophan and glutamine mid afternoon and before bed?
So it’s really only tryptophan and tyrosine I need to separate?
Thanks so much.
Sorry to steal the thread.
No problem Cheryl – this all sounds fine. I’d suggest following the recommendations of the practitioner you are working with, log carefully and see how you feel. I also like to make one change at a time so we know the effects – good or bad
Hi Trudy,
Thanks for all you do. Would you be able to provide feedback regarding the mechanism in which glutamine is something to be cautious of in bipolar. Are you inferring to the glutamate theory?
Thanks so much,
Sarah
Forgot to add these showing low glutamine in bipolar:
Unmedicated children with BPD have lower glutamine than HCSs and medicated children with BPD. These results are consistent with there being an abnormality in ACC glia in untreated child and adolescent BPD. These results are important in helping us better understand the pathophysiology of child and adolescent BPD and helping to develop better and more targeted treatments, in particular, those treatments affecting the metabolism of glutamine by the regulation of glutamine synthetase activity. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4090056/
In conclusion, children with mania have lower Glx/Cr levels than children with BPD being stably treated with the atypical antipsychotic risperidone. Mania may be associated with reduced glutamatergic function in the ACC; and those reductions in glutamate may be increased following successful treatment with glutamatergic agents. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1850573/#R13
No differences between the patient and control group in amino acid levels were observed in cerebrospinal fluid. The observed differences in serum amino acid levels may be interpreted as a systemic aberration in amino acid metabolism that affects several amino acids related to glutamate signaling. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4090056/
The results of this meta-analysis suggest that brain Glx levels are elevated in BD patients and support the idea that glutamate might play an important role in the pathophysiology of BD.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22834460
Dr. Sarah
The glutamine-bipolar precaution is based on a letter published in the American Journal of Psychiatary in 1987. Mebane AH. L-Glutamine and mania. You’ll see it referenced in many papers and publications stating that “the supplement glutamine has reportedly triggered episodes of mania in two people not previously known to have bipolar disorder.” This sentence is from Healing and Wholeness: Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Mental Health by Randi Fredricks. It’s also a precaution in Manic-Depressive Illness: Bipolar Disorders and Recurrent Depression By Frederick K. Goodwin, Kay Redfield Jamison and a number of articles.
I don’t work with people with a bipolar diagnosis any more but did work with a few individuals with bipolar disorder when I worked in Julia Ross’ clinic. I didn’t ever see glutamine trigger mania in anyone.
The precaution still sticks because it’s in the medical literature. And quite frankly it’s a crazy reference since they didn’t have bipolar disorder!
I’d love to see some new research done. I suspect we may see some people do well and some may have an issue with it – as with everything and all conditions. I’ll ask around in some online practitioner forums and see what others have to say on the matter.
As with any amino acid, if you get an adverse reaction you simply stop it. And start super-low if there are any concerns. 1000mg Vitamin C helps negate some of the adverse effects.
I’d love to know why you ask and if you’ve seen good or bad results with glutamine in individuals with bipolar disorder?
Hi Trudy, I just signed up for a one-on-one consultation on your waiting list. I am so very hopeful that I’m able to get an appointment and some clear directions from you very soon ! 🙂 Quite frankly, I’m desperate for answers. I have tried an amino acid trial the past 10 days and starting two days ago I was worse, including migraine headaches. I have been taking GABA calm and 5-HTP and immediately felt better for a few days. The sleep was not great so I switched to tryptophan two days ago and got a migraine headache in the middle of the night. Last night I switched back to 5-HTP and still got another migraine headache. I’m a bit suspect it may be the tyrosine in the GABA calm? Although it’s such a small amount. But I’ve read that tyrosine is the amino acid that can trigger migraines. At this point I’m throwing my hands up in the air and find myself pretty desperate, overwhelmed and full of panic of how to help myself. I have lived with intense anxiety all my life and major sleep issues all my life. I had high hopes in this and I hope that you can give me some direction on which way to go. As of today, I’m stopping everything and I’m hopeful to get some clear wisdom and insights. Thank you so so so very much in advance! Warmly, Heather
Heather
I’m sorry to hear about the migraines. I don’t ever use tyrosine with someone with a history of migraines and stop it immediately if they get headaches or migraines. I also have them do one amino acid trial (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/how-to-do-an-amino-acid-trial-for-anxiety/) at a time so we can figure out what works and what doesn’t
Trudy, thanks for quick reply about there not being any conflict between Lexapro and GABA and/or glutamine. I can’t find my way back to the correct website where I initiated the question and found this one. I appreciate what you do for us.
You’re welcome – and it was here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/therapeutic-special-diets-webinar/
Hi Trudy,
I’m looking for information about taurine. Backstory: gallbladder removed in 2012 due to blocked cystic duct and no functioning. I find when I add 500 mg of taurine to the designs for health stress adapt my sleep is much better. Im experimenting with adding another 500 mg of taurine to my water bottle during the day. Is taurine under 1,500 mg a day safe to stay on indefinitely. What other supplements should someone without a gall bladder take with regularity? (I’m taking digestive enzymes and oxbile, can’t fake bitters because they trigger my MCAD process). Thanks for your wisdom
Robin
Taurine is great for liver and gallbladder support and long-term use is typically fine. Ox bile is the other supplement I have my clients use.
Hello trudy, I’m a 46 year old male and I’ve suffered from panic attacks for 20yrs, I take paroxotine 20mg daily which controls the panic but I would like to stop the meds, when I do I relapse into panic, I have L tryptophan 200mg in the house but I’m worried about taking them with the anti depressant (serotonin syndrome) should I taper off the meds then take L tryptophan or can I start taking L tryptophan whilst still on the meds then stop the meds.
Thank you.
Luke
I’m sorry to hear this. This is the way I work with clients who are wanting to quit SSRI medications: we work on optimizing their health, gut, sleep, adrenals, stress etc via diet (no gluten, no caffeine, no sugar, eating for blood sugar control) and supplements first. With the doctor’s approval amino acids are typically added – tryptophan or 5-HTP (6 hours from SSRI), GABA, glutamine etc. Once they are doing well, they work with their doctor on the SSRI taper, adjusting amino acids up, if needed, as they go down on the medication. And then they continue with nutritional support once they have stopped the SSRI.
All this mitigates the side-effects of a taper.
GABA and glutamine are fine to use with an SSRI so I would do the amino acid questionnaire (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/) and consider a trial with these to start (if you score in these sections).
All the foundations (food, gut, gluten etc) are covered in great detail in my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution.” Of course there is a whole chapter on the amino acids too.
Trudy,
I have a 16 year old daughter. She started having OCD symptoms about 3 months ago, which have been increasing during the last 2 weeks. She is anxious without any apparent cause and pretty much you describe her symptoms when you speak about GABA.
Since I just found your website, I have bought for her Fish Oil, Omegas and Magnesium as well as she is taking “Anxiety Relief” which is a homeopathic medication from Natural Care.
Would you suggest that she starts taking GABA or would it be better if she takes INOSITOL? I’m a little confused as to what to give her and if she should continue with what I bought for her.
I wish I would have found you earlier. Thank you in advance!
Laura
I’m sorry to hear about your daughter. I can’t consult via the blog but with any issue I have clients do the amino questionnaire and a trial (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/anxiety-amino-acids-overview/)– it’s the best way to find out what will work. With someone with low GABA symptoms I’d do a GABA trial.
OCD is often related to low serotonin so doing this section of the questionnaire will help to figure it out. I typically start with tryptophan (and only the Lidtke brand https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/) and then inositol if it’s not addressing all the symptoms.
Please get my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” so you have a clear picture of how this fits in to diet, real food, no gluten, no caffeine, no sugar, gut health, pyroluria etc. It’s much more than only supplements.
With OCD, strep/PANDAs always needs to be ruled out.
Hi Trudy!
Your blog and research is incredibly fascinating! I have taken the questionnaire for both amino acids and pyluria and have then purchased liedtkes tryptophan, Tyrosine, twice a day multi, magnesium, B6 – all from your approved brand list. I am wondering the timing and dosage on each one of these. I know you recommend starting out with 500mg of tryptophan and am assuming that would be at bedtime but unsure about the others.
Thank you for all the work that you do!
Hey Trudy,
I have anxiety/ panic attacks/ depersonalizations constant.
I started 500 mg tyrosine yesterday. Took it again today and I think it was fine…possibly better..
But tonight I took 500 mg of tryptophan and Its impossible to even close my eyes…and extremely irritated (I’m never angry so it feels very wrong). I’m super anxious and just hoping it will go away soon. Nervous to take the emergency vitamin C because it says it is energizing and I already feel so energized.
Any idea ? Did I take to much? I have almost every symtpom under the low serotonin checklist so I was so sure tryptophan would help me.
Thank you !
Dallis
Sorry to hear this. I have my clients do just one amino acid for at least week and start really low (opening a capsule and using just a pinch if sensitive). I also use tyrosine last for anxious clients but too much of any of the aminos can cause adverse effects, even tryptophan. Also some do better on 5-HTP. I always have a client use vitamin C when they have an adverse reaction to an amino acid – it’s actually calming.
I also do trials to start so we know what the ideal amount is https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/anxiety-amino-acids-overview/
I was wondering if there were any issues with taking essential amino acids and lithium orotate (5mg) together, or within an hour of each other.
Hi
I have just started taking 5-HPT for insomnia and weight loss and pain but I have been unable to find out if it is safe with asthma. My medical problems are asthma, adrenal insufficiency, high blood pressure, hiatus hernia, alerigic rhinitis, osteoporosis and allodynia.
Can you please advise safety and doseage
Thank you
hello, please if you can help me, I have many years depression that is like 80% better with homeopathy but it left behind some things like I am unable to concentrate, I feel tired most of the time and I have to try hard my best to do simple things for others, like trying to study or trying to do some sport.
At the same time I get some days with very big anxiety.
I have very low pressure always and I have a very high frequency tinnitus in my right ear for 1 year and my glands are hard in general.
red bull helps me to concentrate when I drink some before the class but still I do not feel that I have energy for exercise.
I recently started tryptophan and I want to see if some other Amino Acid could help me.
Melina
If we were working together I’d look into diet (Red Bull is a big no-no with all the caffeine) and blood sugar control. With the fatigue I’d look into adrenal issues, food sensitivies, low catecholamines, low iron/ferritin, thyroid issues. A thorough functional nutrition work-up will likely find root cause/s.
I encourage you to read my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” so you have a good handle on the comprehensive approach I use with my clients, have reviewed the precautions with using the amino acids and are well-informed (on Amazon here http://amzn.to/2kptFWm)
Hi, suffered major anxiety for a few years, tried all self help etc. Did go citalopram 40mg after initially 20mg doing some good. Went on 40mg.. amazing no anxiety life was great. Decided to stop 8 months later and bad anxiety again. After a few years of complete suffer I went back on citalopram and it was the best decision. After 1 tablet I basically felt my brain and body feel normal and had 6 years of freedom. Recently I relapsed back hard and now I’m on venlafaxine (effexor) I had a few ok days last week but it’s hell. Side effects r killing me too. I’ve only just found out about amino acids etc. Could any body please help. I would love to eliminate this horrible condition naturally but scared being on and off the tablets. Any advice. I use tumeric and magnesium and pro biotic supplements. I have to take my AD’S morning and night 2 doses etc.
Hello Trudy,
I have been researching PMDD for many years because after the birth of my second child, I developed, what I called at the time, “PMS from hell.” After seeing a commercial for YAZ birth control and deciding that I indeed had all the symptoms they described for PMDD, I did consult with my OB/GYN about it. He suggested Zoloft but at the time, I really didn’t want to start taking prescription drugs. I had hoped to find a “natural remedy.” So, I began researching and found that some women find relief with Calcium. I gave it a try but with no relief for me. I went back to my OB/GYN and he suggested I give YAZ (birth control) a try. Reluctantly, I tried it and was only able to tolerate it for 13 days. I had to stop because it made my symptoms worse, not better. So I went back to the internet and found 5-HTP. I started out with the smallest dose and increased until I found relief and I stuck with it (100-150 mg daily)…until I became pregnant again. I’m no longer pregnant but still nursing, though she nurses once or twice a day. I’m finding that 5-HTP is NOT recommended for nursing mothers but my symptoms for PMDD are really bad. It’s affecting me, my relationship with my husband, with my 4 children. I’m wondering what your thoughts are on starting 5-HTP again with me nursing 1-2 times a day.
Tina
There is no research but with physician’s ok some mom’s will nurse and then take the amino acid and not nurse for another 4 hours
Is it better to take amino acids before, with or after a meal?
Mimi
It’s spelled out in great deal in the amino acid chapter in my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” (here on Amazon http://amzn.to/2kptFWm) – away from meals. I recommend everyone read this chapter carefully BEFORE starting on any amino acids.
Do you have any knowledge on whether the same contradictions you mention also apply to taking a triptan medication when you are also taking neurotransmitter supplements like gaba, dl- phenylalanine, l glutamine, and 5 htp? The same warning you mention for SSRI use is also applicable for those taking triptans (for migraine).
Hi Trudy,
I apolgize if this is a repeat question. I have been reading about the wonders of glutamine for improving mood and reducing junk-food cravings. But in the past I was given an l-glutamine supplement and it made me anxious and jittery. Is there another amino you would suggest to replace glutamine with?
Alyeska
Glutamine can be too stimulating for some people. This blog discusses some of the possible causes of cravings related to brain chemicals https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/glutamine-calming-intense-sugar-cravings-gut-healing-low-blood-sugar/
Hello Trudy! I just ordered the L – Tryptophan you recommend for my anxiety and sleep issues. Based on your article, it seems I have low serotonin. High anxiety and insomnia are my main issues. Depression and low self esteem has set in after dealing with my two main issues for so long. I hated antidepressants, but needed something for sleep. Would go DAYS sometimes due to racing thoughts and high cortisol levels (been tested). My dr prescribed my 50 mg of Trazadone 3 months ago, which helps for the most part for sleep, but I really want to get off of it and sleep naturally again. I know it is an antidepressant, but only at high doses like 200mg from what I read. My question is, would it be safe to take L – Tryptophan while weaning off of Trazadone? Or do you have any other suggestions for me? I tried gaba and didn’t seem to help much. Was on 5 -htp last year and seemed to help for a few months then stopped. Thank You!
Hi, I’ve been put back on meds fluoxetine 20mg for panic syndrome/ Generalised anxiety disorder. Reluctant to increase dosage cause I’ve been on stronger meds in the past and we’re a horrible nightmare to ween off.
The GAD is bad I feel paranoid about everything and have a lot of the physical symptoms, the worse is nausea and digestive problems. Which amino acids can I take that will definitely be safe? This has been going on for 3 months, Please help! I’m desperate.
Hi Trudy, I am menopausal and suffering from morning anxiety and mood swings. I take HRT ( estrogel, testosterone,and serenity pro cream) which take care of the vasomotor symptoms, but the anxiety is stubborn.
After a serious bout of anxiety attacks, due to trying to reduce things too quickly and some bad advice my anti depressant duloxetine was upped to 90 mg ( I know!) I have since managed to get it down to 60mg without too many problems.
However the morning anxiety remains and dreadful rumination. I take zinc, magnesium, krill oil , D3 regularly in the morning and have 2weekly injections of B12. I eat healthily, no caffeine, wine and almost no sugar. I can’t tolerate any stress and cry at the drop of a hat. I am now trying 5htp, while watching out for symptoms of serotonin syndrome.100mg a day. Nothing seems to work . Would love to be myself again. I also have been diagnosed with low risk ET and take aspirin 80mg daily for that. Any ideas on the morning jitters. Sometimes I take a small amount of diazapam which works wonders but I don’t want to get hooked. Any ideas?
Many thanks
Maggie
Maggie
I prefer tryptophan to 5-HTP (and only use the Lidtke brand) and make sure my clients have their prescribing doctor on board to watch for serotonin syndrome, taking the SSRI in the morning and tryptophan at night.
With morning anxiety I also like to check for high cortisol with a saliva adrenal test and address it if it is high.
DPA/endorphigen helps with crying/emotional pain https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/dpa-weepiness-pain-comfort-reward-eating/
Whenever someone is using a benzo such as diazepam I will always suspect that this could be a contributing factor when the amino acids aren’t working as expected – even a small amount.
And gluten has to be removed too plus watching for accidental exposures
Hi, i have read the Mood Cure, and nowhere in the book does Ross cite references to support the warning against Tyrosine for those with history of Melanoma (i had melanoma diagnosis several years ago). Do you know of published science that supports this warning? I would not take 5htp or Tryptophan without Tyrosine, and so if Tyrosine is out, then one of the main tools of her approach — 5htp or Tryptophan — is dead in the water.
Doug
I encourage you to reach out to Julia Ross to get her citations. In the meantime here is a statement from NDHealthFacts “tyrosine and phenylalanine should be avoided in cancer (especially pigmented melanoma)” http://www.ndhealthfacts.org/wiki/Tyrosine. And this paper, Dietary Influence of Tyrosine and Phenylalanine on the Response of B16 Melanoma to Carbidopa-Levodopa Methyl Ester Chemotherapy, concludes that “concomitant dietary tyrosine-phenylalanine restriction enhances the antitumor activity of carbidopa-levodopa methyl ester against B16 melanoma.” http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/42/8/3056.long
I have many clients use tryptophan and/or 5-HTP without tyrosine with no issues – many don’t need tyrosine, some don’t tolerate it and some can’t use it based on current or prior history of melanoma.
Hi Trudy just read your book in german. Just been Released.
In your Expertise, aren’n the brain Active Form of amino acids better?ich
I mean acetyl l carnitin or n acetyl tyrosin.
They are Higher in cost but are supposed to get through the Blood Brain Barrier
Thanks for your work
Andreas
Andreas
Glad to hear you have the German copy! I have not actually looked into seeing if the acetylated forms like Acetyl-L-Tyrosine work better but you have me curious. I’ll add it to my list of things to dig into and will ask my community for their feedback. Have you trialed both and noticed a difference?
Thanks for asking and enjoy the book! If you feel so inclined I’d appreciate an honest review on the site where you purchased your copy.
Hi Trudy,
I see the precautions on taking 5-HTP or trytophan if you are taking an SSRI, but is it okay to take Gaba Calm while taking an SSRI?
Megan
There are no known issues with taking GABA while on an SSRI but I have my clients always discuss with the prescribing doctor.
I take 75-100 mg of Trazadone for post menopausal insomnia. i usually get about 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep which is great. For the last 2 years i’ve been asking Curamin turmeric supplement for knee pain which has DLPA in it for pain. Is there anything I should know about taking the 2 of them together long term?
Dona
I’m not aware of long-term issues with turmeric or DLPA. But I do have concerns with long-term Trazadone and prefer my clients to find the root cause of sleep issues. When Trazadone helps it’s a clue low serotonin may be a factor so we investigate and address this.
I’ve been taking Ashwagandha to help with some anxiety and severe insomnia that I’ve been battling for almost 2 years. I do feel more relaxed taking it, but it has not helped my sleep problems. I’d like to try the Tryptophan but want to make sure I can take both (or maybe I would not need to take the Ashw.?. My brain races at night but I also think my body has gotten use to the lack of sleep because on nights when I do feel relaxed, I often find that I do not feel sleepy. I need help quieting my brain at night, but also need to retrain my body to sleep.
Monika
I have clients use both herbal adaptogens such as Ashwagandha and rhodiola together with the amino acids and I’m not away of any issues taking both
Hello,
I am a 57-year old woman with serotonin related insomnia… I have taken SSRIs in the past (a long time ago) with excellent results, but hated the side effects. I have started supplementing with a low dose of 5-htp, theanine and melatonin (Natural Factors Tranquil sleep), and I also try to boost my serotonin with exercise (when I’ve slept enough to be able to exercise), and sun.
The amount of 5-htp I am taking is very low, 30 mg, so I was wondering about either increasing the dose of 5-htp or adding gaba – since I am still only getting about 5 hr sleep. But I have naturally low blood pressure that runs in my family. So I am wondering if it safe.
I also have Hashimotos and take LDN and a thyroid hormone to help with that.
Thank you for your blog, it’s very helpful.
Hello,
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am on Amiltriptyline to help with insomnia and Visual Snow Syndrome (including tinnitus). Do you think I can supplement with Taurine to assist with helping with anxiety and healing the brain.
Rosie
Best is to discuss with the prescribing doctor
Dear Trudy
Thank you very much for your so and important blog.
How can I get your questionaire?
I have great troubles to sleep and I wake up a lot of times during the night.
Warm regards
Helena
Helena
Here are the symptoms https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/
If you are new to the amino acids (and other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc) my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” is a great place to start. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/store/aafsbook.html
Hi Trudy, I just wanted to know which amino acids (particularly GABA, 5-HTP and Tryptophan) may be combined together and which should not? I have crippling anxiety (I am ‘stuck’ in ‘fight or flight’ mode from a year’s high prednisone for a period of hospitalisation with Susac Syndrome), but I don’t want to use Zoloft so am trying the natural amino route. Thanks!
Charles
They can all be used and many are often needed. I just have clients trial one at a time so they what is working for them
Apologies for the delay in your comment approval and my response. We had a computer glitch where a large number of comments were hidden from view in a spam folder. It mostly affected new folks who were commenting for the first time but it’s hopefully resolved now.
Hello Trudy,
I was diagnosed with OCD when I was 19. I’m currently taking 300 mg / day of 5-HTP separated into 100 mg capsules with one capsule taken in the morning, one mid afternoon, and one in the evening. It does seem to be helping and actually has caused me to start dreaming more, or at least remembering my dreams. I’m wondering if it is safe for me to remain on this dose indefinitely? I am also taking 3 grams of NAC along with 18 grams of Inositol each day. I also take 600 mg of Magnesium. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge on amino-acids for treating disorders like OCD!!
Michael
It’s wonderful to hear you are getting relief! I have many clients using these and other combinations of nutrients but ideally we want to look for root causes and address those too, in addition to making dietary changes. My book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” is a great place to start. It has info on the amino acids and other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/store/aafsbook.html
Thanks Trudy. My wife has already ordered the book.
I have been reading about tryptophan for worry and fear which I have way to much of. My husband says I’m a hypochondriac because I worry so much, but I can’t get it out of my head. It keeps popping up even though I reason it away and tell myself everything’s ok.
I sleep great though. It’s actually the only time I don’t worry. My worry does lead to anxiety and I’ve had mild panic attacks. I’d like to try tryptophan. It says to take tryptophan in the afternoon or evening and I’m assuming that’s to help you sleep, but since I don’t need help sleeping but to stop ruminating all day long could I take it in the morning?
Wendy
Daytime use of tryptophan can be used for day-time worry. Night time use can also be used to carry over to the next day or we also use 5-HTP earlier in the day if needed.
When you are new to the amino acids I really do recommend my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” so you understand exactly how to use them. There is an entire chapter on the amino acids and how to use them.
It also covers other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc and is a great foundation. Remember, it’s the amino acids and diet. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
You give a warning to people about using amino acids that have a serious physical illness, such as cancer. Why is that, do the amino acids drive the illness or contribute to it in any way?
Kim
It’s because they have not been studied in cancer patients although some may be beneficial. Glutamine is one that may be beneficial in certain cancers but not others. I always have my clients work with their oncologist.
I would like to connect with you for your free consultation.
I have ibs , leaky gut, autoimmune phemphigoid which the following are triggers thiols, isothlocyanates, phenols, tannins ,
I take l Glutamine, and seem to tolerate it very well . I also take B minus from seeking plus b12 and folate as I have MTHFR , can I take DPA and GABA ? I notice the lidtke brand has Vit b2 and Vit b6 as well and I already take B vitamins.
I been weeping a lot lately and I do have rectal very painful spammers !
I gave your book and read it twice and still have to reread some areas .
Diana
I no longer offer free consults but invite you to join us on The Anxiety Summit: Gut-Brain Axis, Nov 8-14, 2021. Register here https://anxietysummit5.byhealthmeans.com/?idev_id=739
We cover much that has direct relevance for you – IBS/SIBO (Dr. Siebecker’s interview), leaky gut (many interviews), autoimmunity (Dr/ Tom’s interview), the amino acids (my 2 interviews), being overly weepy (my interview “Glutamine, DPA and Tyrosine for Anxiety and Sugar Cravings”) and even rectal spasms (my interview “GABA & Tryptophan: Gut-Anxiety Connections”
I’m really pleased you have read my book. It will be a great foundation as you attend the summit
I am one who is very leery to try amino acids or any other type of medication, even! I am on no medication, except natural supplements, like magnesium, B-complex and a fish oil a day.
But, I have been going through a huge amount of stress lately. We moved to Florida and a lot of not-so-good events occurred, my loving pooch died of cancer very unexpectedly and I have also been caring for my elderly brother who had a quite a few problems himself, so I took him into our home and cared for him for the past 3 years. He died suddenly. We found him on the bathroom floor, dead! It was quite devastating. Plus I’m looking for a new job, plus financial problems…
So I started to clinch… this is a habit of mine when things get very, very tense and I feel not in control. It became so bad my entire sides hurt, my back hurt, I became extremely fatigued. Long story short, I finally tried a GABA Calm by Source Naturals, actually just before I wrote this. I only took 1/4 of a tablet and I felt the difference in about 5-10 minutes. I was shocked. I felt less pain and stopped clinching but I am still so tried from doing the clinching for about the last 3 months. I must be an extreme pixie-duster for this small amount to make a difference.
I also have trouble sleeping at night at times and now I am convinced that I try tryptophan, because I wake up and get a thought in my head and ruminate about it and it will keep me up for about 2 hours or more. I am also a worrier, worrying about things in the future type of thing…
But I had to post this because I was just shocked that I felt some difference in the way I felt just after 1/4 of a GABA Calm… Thank you, Trudy, for the wonderful work you do!
Cindy
Sorry to hear all you have been through and thanks for taking the time to come and share your wonderful results with GABA. I’m so happy for you! The cinching you describe is very common with physical tension (caused by low GABA) and it’s exhausting.
Please let me know how you do with tryptophan. Keep in mind GABA at night can also help with sleep issues especially if there is tension.
It sounds like you are new to the amino acids (and possibly other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc), I recommend my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” as a great place to start. It has an entire chapter on the amino acids with dosing and timing information. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
Hi – I was wondering if it is safe to take gaba and l- theanine with Benadryl. My son is a college student and been taking gaba and l-theanine for about a year snd a half. He has recently found out that he has allergies- if he needs to take Benadryl is that ok if needed? Thank you.
Susie
There are no documented issues with the amino acids and benedryl but always best to discuss with the prescribing doctor or pharmacist. And next step is to address the allergies so benadryl is not needed and/or consider natural approaches.
I see that the Lidtke tryptophan that you recommend is made using a natural fermentation process. PharmaGABA is, I understand, also made this way. Pharma GABA gave me a migraine and I assume that was to do with histamines. So I am concerned that I might have the same reaction with the tryptophan. Would you please comment on this? I want to try tryptophan but it is going to take several weeks to get to me once I order it if I purchase the Lidtke brand so would like some advice before going ahead with it. Also do you know whether other brands, such as Source Naturals, also use fermentation in the productiin? Thank you.
Brenda
I have not had anyone report a histamine reaction to Lidtke tryptophan and I don’t know for sure if other products also use fermentation but I’d suspect so. Please do let me know your experience if you decide to trial the Lidtke tryptophan.
Just so you know I have had a few people report a histamine reaction to pharmaGABA – migraines, hives, agitation, anger, anxiety etc.
Hello Trudy, thank you for the wealth of information. I have purchased GABA Calm after doing your questionnaire. I found myself little bit in several groups but each group also had symptoms I didn’t experience at all so hard to tell. My main symptoms are anxiety, body/muscle tension, heart palpitations, worries and fears (not phobia, more like worries over taking medication or eating wrong foods etc) and irritation especially PMS associated. I thought I’d start with GABA trial but then realised it has other ingredients associated with precautions (which again triggers my worries). I didn’t tick any warning boxes but do you think it is better to trial pure GABA first? I’m clear on diet and drink decaf coffee, but there are many areas I need to improve eg adding exercise or cutting sugar out more successfully. Any ideas would be welcome.
Andrea
It’s common to have symptoms in all areas and need to address each area – one by one. I have many clients do very well with GABA Calm. If they have issues we may switch to a GABA only product or use a GABA/theanine product.
With excessive worries we also consider low serotonin and do a trial of tryptophan and/or 5-HTP.
Addressing low GABA helps with stress eating and low serotonin helps stop afternoon/evening cravings, low endorpins helps when eating sugar is comforting/a reward.
My book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” is a great place for the foundations/dietary changes and it has a chapter on the amino acids with dosing/timing information. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
My online GABA Quickstart group program is helpful when you have questions related to GABA and need guidance (and moral support/encouragement). More here about the program and purchase info https://www.anxietynutritioninstitute.com/gabaquickstart/
Hi Trudy,
I have been taking Gaba on and off for several years which has been very helpful for my anxiety. I have also tried L theanine and tryptophan but Gaba is my go to for heart racing and nervousness. I was going over your book as I do now and then and noticed the paragraph not to take amino acids if you have liver or kidney problems and wondered why. I have not been diagnosed with either but am having some kidney tests because of some red blood cells in my urine, hoping maybe it’s just stones which run in my family. When I read that paragraph I stopped taking any amino acids in case they might be responsible but am quite nervous. I can’t seem to find anything online on whether you can take Gaba with kidney problems so thought I’d ask you.
Thank you,
Diane Martinson
Diane
Glad to hear GABA has been very helpful for your anxiety, heart racing and nervousness!
Great question but new research actually overrides this for GABA – An Updated Review on Pharmaceutical Properties of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31344785/ GABA has been show to have these properties: “anti-hypertension, anti-diabetes, anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anti-microbial, anti-allergy, hepato-protection, reno-protection, and intestinal protection”
With kidney issues I always suspect dietary oxalate issues. More on oxalates here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/oxalate-crystal-disease-dietary-oxalates-and-pain-the-research-questions/
Hi Trudy,
I deeply appreciate all your work in this area. My son who has been diagnosed with ASD (he’s 9 years old) has been helped greatly using Gaba Calm and 5-HTP 50mg/tryptophan 95mg (5-HTP is a little easier as he likes the taste). Tryptophan has also been wonderful for me in helping me sleep deeply for the first time in years and feeling calm and content. Im wondering about Glutamine- I’ve read some research that head banging in autism can be due to excess glutamate. Do you know anything about this and would this be one amino acid to steer clear of? My son doesn’t bang his head anymore but has aggressive outbursts. We have a lot of bone broth in winter and I’ve just starting putting bone broth collagen power in smoothies again (aggression can be present when we are not doing these things however). We eat a whole food diet- no gluten or cows products but do have sheep yoghurt and GF oats and use buckwheat kernels to make bread. Thanks so much for your help. warm regards, Lou
Lou
Wonderful to hear your son has been greatly helped by Gaba Calm and 5-HTP 50mg/tryptophan 95mg. I’m curious which 5-HTP/tryptophan products and why these doses. With aggressive outbursts I look into low serotonin first (and increase 5-HTP and/or tryptophan), and low blood sugar (where glutamine and diet helps – I’ve not seen head banging with glutamine but it’s possible), lithium orotate (more on that here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/low-lithium-questionnaire-and-how-we-use-lithium-orotate-with-the-amino-acids/), dietary oxalates and salicylates/phenols.
With low serotonin symptoms we always watch the use of collagen powder https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/collagen-gelatin-lower-serotonin-increase-anxiety-depression/
And with ASD we also consider pyroluria as it’s really common
It’s wonderful to hear that tryptophan has also been wonderful for you too – helping you sleep deeply for the first time in years and feeling calm and content. How much are you using and which product?
Hi Trudy,
Thanks for your advice! I have just watched your talk on collagen and anxiety at the osteoporosis summit just now so have switched now to a pea / hemp protein for now. I do think collagen might have caused increased anxiety for me. And I recall that when I made grass fed gelatin gummies for my son a few years back, I suspected they had a negative effect but didn’t know why! I’ll also cut back on the spinach and oxalte foods and test that.
The tryptophan we have is Vitafit L-typtophan. I got it as I took Jess Shermans (nutritionist) amino acid course and she advised 100mg as a starting dose for a child (or 50mg 5-HTP). At 95mg tryptophan per tablet, it was the only one I could find close to that dose (I was nervous about dividing a 500mg capsule and not being sure of the dose for my son). I couldn’t access the Lidtke brand from Australia. The 5-HTP is from bio-balance New Zealand.
For my son- He was tested for pyroluria a few years back and was on the upper limit on normal (9.3 Ug/dL) so we haven’t done anything further there. However, he is on a good muliV designed for ASD population (simple spectrum from the USA).
I had actually reduced his 5HTP to 25mg twice daily just to be as low as possible to start and we were doing great on that (first 3-4 days were 50mg once daily). Yesterday I titrated back up to 50mg 5HTP for him first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. 10 minutes later he had punched his sister and we had a tough day of high anxiety/ aggression and oppositional behaviour. Could it have been the 5-HTP? (However, these kind of days do happen for us esp towards the end of school term when he’s tired). He’s been back on 25mg twice daily the past few days and is good again. I do wonder if he is just super senstive and doesn’t need alot? He’s also got the full MAO-A gene mutation which would make me think he needs a higher dose. I will also try the glutamine as i think he does crave sugar in the form of frozen mango every day.
Do you think it’s worth trialing tyrosine because of the MAO-A gene mutation? (affects dopamine as well i think?). He’s not hyperactive (mostly). I’ll also investigate lithium as he does have some symptoms. we are now off the Gaba calm since doing 5-HTP.
For me- I have only been using about 300mg trytophan for me each night (same brand as above) and sometimes in the morning if I feel anxious- I did take 500mg the first night but got such a strong effect (feeling sleepy and heavy but also tingling lips and slight asthma symptoms) that I felt the dose might be too much and pulled back. I have still been waking in the night (on occasion) with the 300mg but still feel more relaxed and like I’ve slept well. I’ll swap to the thorne or source naturals brand soon though. I have also realised that the thyroid support supp from my holistic GP has tyrosine in it so I’ve been on 500mg twice a day the past 6 weeks. It has been helpful as I’m way more alert and motivated. However I have had some mild headaches (and history of migraines). Im going to get tyrosine seperate from the multivitamin to work out the right dose and get the best effects. A concern though- I had a very early melanoma 15 years ago and family history of this- therefore should i do something else for dopamine support? I’ve had depression/ anxiety on/off for the past few years which I thought was mostly driven by high stress levels caring for a child with ASD but realising now my cathecholamines were low for sure- with tyrosine, im back exercising , able to study and enoying it!
thank you trudy!
Lou
Good to hear your son does well with 5-HTP and you do well with tryptophan
Too much 5-HTP can be too much for anyone leading to rage but keeping a careful log and trying a few times is what confirms things. And don’t forget having the full MAO-A gene mutation does not mean it’s expressing and more is needed. It simply means there is the potential.
I don’t have clients with active or prior melanoma use tyrosine, even when it does help so much as in your case. We look at omega-3s, adaptogenic herbs and other ways to support the adrenals and thyroid
HI Trudy, thanks so much. I’ll go back to Ashwaghanda, it’s been good for me in the past 🙂 and will re-try with my son 🙂
Hi Trudy,
First thank you so much for sharing all your knowledge. Today I received a GAMA injection to help with stress as recommended at an IV clinic.
I went home and starting researching more and stumbled on your page discussing ADHD, and also tantrums. My oldest has ADHD and is on adderall and although it’s helpful he still struggles and I’m hesitant to increase medication because his difficulty eating. He is 12.
My other kiddo 5 suffers with terrible meltdowns and very light sleep. His iron is on the lower end and at times has dipped below normal if he’s not on a vitamin with an iron supplement. I always wondered if his temperament was due to low iron and then I was reading where you said that low iron also contributes to low GAMA! I just find that so interesting!
My question is what dosage is safe to give kids in these age ranges…and is it safe to give with adderall? Also are there any blood tests you would recommend they get done??? I feel like their primary care will only look into these type of issues to a very limited extent…where/who should I take them to??? Sorry for the load of questions, I am so very thankful for any insight or advice.
Mariah
Are you referring to the calming amino acid GABA? and if yes can you share more about the injection/who did it etc as this is new to me
I’ll address your questions once I know we’re on the same page
Yes GABA the amino acid….you can get it at IV clinics….I got mine at the hydration room (https://www.hydrationroom.com/vitamin-injection/how-to-relieve-stress-quickly). It’s a part of their stress treatment. Not gabapentin.
Although for my kids I wouldn’t do an injection I would do an oral supplement….but that’s just the situation that started my research that led to your blogs.
Mariah
How did you feel after the IV GABA and how long did the benefits last? Was it a once off shot or did you sit there for 30 mins with an IV? Do you know if there was anything else in it other than GABA?
I’m curious how it compares to using GABA as a supplement used sublingually or opened or liposomal? And why you opted for IV?
Hi Trudy! Sorry I thought I responded to this but must’ve not posted it. Yes I’m referring to the amino acid GABA. I had it at the hydration room. It’s part of the stress relief injection they offer. Although for my kids I would be looking at oral supplements not injections.
Mariah
Thanks for letting me know – you did post it but it needed approving.
As you may have read on the blogs GABA can be very helpful for ADHD and meltdowns, In case you missed some of the blogs here are a few:
– GABA for children: ADHD, focus issues, irritability, anxiety and tantrums https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/gaba-children-adhd-focus-issues-irritability-anxiety-tantrums/
– My 12 year old son has ADHD, is impulsive, is a loner, craves carbs, and doesn’t do well or care about school – should he be on GABA? https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/my-12-year-old-son-has-adhd-is-impulsive-is-a-loner-craves-carbs-and-doesnt-do-well-or-care-about-school-should-he-be-on-gaba/
– My 6 year old was having panic attacks getting out of the car for Kindergarten: GABA has completely relieved him of his fears https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/my-6-year-old-was-having-panic-attacks-getting-out-of-the-car-for-kindergarten-gaba-has-completely-relieved-him-of-his-fears/
Dosing is unique to each person and based on symptoms i.e. GABA will only work if GABA is low. I start super low with kids – like 25mg and increase from there.
Optimal iron levels are key for neurotransmitter production and so much more.
Diet is key too – all explained in my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” – real food, no gluten/sugar/caffeine, quality animal protein esp at breakfast for blood sugar control etc https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
If you need guidance my GABA group programs offer much support – sign up here to get notified about the next launch https://www.anxietynutritioninstitute.com/gabaquickstart/
Hi Trudy! Sorry I just saw this. I felt good after the shot. I did an injection but you get a choice of IV versus injection. This was my very first one though so I’m not sure I can speak yet Of the effectiveness. I wasn’t planning on getting it ….was a last minute add on to an injection I get for the immune system (basically a bunch of antioxidants). Anyways I’ll let you know as I go on with it. Thank you so much for all of the information and links!
Mariah
Thanks for the update – when you say good I assume you mean calmer? If you do trial GABA sublingually one day in the future please share how it compares with the GABA injection.