Have you used inositol for anxiety and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) or even obsessive thinking or behaviors? Have you used it alone or with tryptophan or 5-HTP? I’d like to share an interesting discussion on a recent blog I wrote: Amino acids for anxiety – which ones and for how long? to illustrate how we are all unique and how some nutrients work well and some not so well.
I received this question on the blog regarding the use of amino acids tryptophan or 5-HTP and OCD/anxiety:
I was wondering if this will help with OCD? I did not see any mention of OCD in your articles. Do you feel it can be treated the same way you would treat other anxieties? I was told that since I take serotonin medication that I should not take 5-HTP because it may cause too much serotonin. What are your thoughts?
My answer was as follows (I’ve added a few links because I like to share the research):
OCD can often be related to low serotonin so yes tryptophan and/or 5-HTP can help and is often very effective. If you take an SSRI then tryptophan and/or 5-HTP should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision and at least 6 hours from the SSRI. I would suggest working with a practitioner who knows the amino acids too. And talk to your doctor about doing a taper if that’s what you’d like to do
The other nutrient that helps with OCD is inositol and this is fine to take with an SSRI. I start my clients on 2g/day and go up to 18g/day. Here is one of the older papers on inositol, showing benefits for depression, panic attacks and OCD and a more recent paper discussing OCD and inositol and other nutrients such as NAC and glycine.
With OCD I’d always also look into past strep infections and PANDAs as this could be a factor too.
One of my blog readers, Tracy, responded to the question with some encouragement (how lovely!) and gave us a great example of how we are all different and there is no one size fits all:
Chiming in with a bit of encouragement here – a bit late perhaps, but wanted to let you know that my teenage son suffers from OCD and anxiety. A number of years ago I found Trudy’s website while trying to find some natural ways to help him. We tried 5-HTP with good success (it also helped lessen the frequency and intensity of his migraines) but it caused stomach upset with him, even when taken with food, so be aware that it may have this effect on you if you try it. After about 9 months of 5-HTP we kind of “forgot” to give it to him and he continued to feel good.
Once my son started high school he started having more stress in his life and his OCD, anxiety and migraines returned. I started him on inositol about 8 months ago. It has had an even greater effect on the OCD than the 5-HTP (remember everyone is different tho!).
I’d highly recommend you try the inositol since 5HTP/tryptophan is not an option for you at this time. My son has had no side effects from inositol at all. Good luck!!
I was pleased to hear that the 5-HTP helped when Tracy’s son was younger. Some people do have digestive issues with 5-HTP. It’s usually in the first week and then typically resolves. This was obviously not the case with this young man.
I was also thrilled to hear that the inositol is helping so much now and wanted to know how much helps so I asked her. Tracy shared how much her son needs (not much at all) and the symptoms it helps with:
My son takes 500mg (NOW brand) daily in the mornings, usually with breakfast. That amount works well for him most days.
When stress is higher and he starts experiencing “breakthrough anxiety” or obsessions, I have him take another 500mg in the evenings as well, just for a couple days or until the stress has diminished.
I should mention that his OCD tends to be primarily obsessive in nature with very little compulsion. His father was actually diagnosed with mild OCD before I met him and he learned to deal with his through counseling and behavior modification. I read about tryptophan (Julia Ross) and asked him to try it. It works well for him when his anxiety acts up (which interestingly tends to have a seasonal component!) It has been an education living with these two!
You can take up to 18g a day of inositol but I suggest starting with 2g a day and building up as needed. But as you can see above, even 500mg to 1000mg (which is 1 g – I grew up in South Africa and love the metric system!) may be enough.
I happen to use the DFH Inositol powder (pictured above). It has a pleasant slightly sweet taste and is easy to increase the amount based on how much you find helpful. You can find this on the supplements blog here.
As I mentioned above, tryptophan or 5-HTP can help with anxiety, OCD, obsessive thoughts and behaviors (and panic disorders and depression). Adding inositol is an option when the tryptophan/5-HTP isn’t quite enough, or simply use inositol alone.
I also think inositol makes a great addition for mixing into the nasty tasting tryptophan if you find you get better benefits with the tryptophan capsules opened. I suggest starting with 2g inositol per 500mg tryptophan.
I appreciate Tracy giving me permission to share her son’s success with these nutrients. We can all learn so much from stories like this. If you’ve been using any of the amino acids and/or inositol, I hope this has been helpful for you.
Please share how you’re doing in the comments and feel free to ask additional questions.
If this sounds intriguing and you’d like guidance with using the amino acids and other nutrients like inositol, stay tuned for the launch of The Amazing Aminos for Anxiety homestudy group program. This homestudy group program will provide guidance with using each of the targeted individual amino acids, including nutrients like inositol. You can also add your name in the comments if you’d like to be notified when it launches. You’re also welcome to sign up here to be notified when we have more details about the start date.
Hello Trudy. How do I go about potentially arranging a meeting with you (via Skype)? I have a son with ADHD who doesn’t want to take any meds for it. Doesn’t like losing his appetite, and yet they do help him focus. School is much more overwhelming, and am wondering which amino acids might help. Please lmk if we can set up a session/what your fees are, etc. Thank you! Ilisa
Hi Lisa
I’m afraid that due to the high demand, I am in the process of restructuring my packages and services so I can more effectively and efficiently serve more anxious individuals.
For now, I am NOT offering the initial complimentary 15-minute call and NOT taking on new one-on-one clients. Please stay tuned for updates and enter your name and email below if you’d like to be added to the waiting list/notification list https://www.everywomanover29.com/services.html There are some additional resources at the bottom of the above link.
I’ve had success with kids with ADHD with diet changes – protein at breakfast is key! Also gluten-free, sugar-free, additive-free and look into the Feingold diet. Low iron and low zinc can be factors. Tyrosine is often very helpful. Any good nutritionist should be able to assist
I am having terrible insomnia, anxiety, ocd (pure ocd), constant worry, rumination,depression and wondering if you can take NAC, inostiol and CBD oil together? So lost right now 🙁
Adam
Adam
I don’t use much CBD or NAC so can’t comment – it would be a matter of doing a trial and adding one at a time. I do have excellent results with insoitol for OCD and tryptophan for insomnia, anxiety, worry, rumination and depression
Trudy, I have signed up for the Amazing Aminos for Anxiety home study and I can’t wait! In the meantime, I have purchased past anxiety summits and listened to many of the talks as well as read your book. It has been life changing for me to feel confident that my children will not have to suffer life long anxiety and depression as all my siblings, my mother, and I have. I truly believe this will be the future of mental health! Bravo!!
Right now my 10 year old daughter is suffering from anxiety and I have tried to start her on some aminos–I’m afraid to try too much because I’m just not sure of doses for kids (she only weighs 62lbs) and it can be somewhat difficult to assess efficacy as she is not able to articulate all that is going on. (She is now gluten free and I’m doing my best to get her to eat some GF red meat, her diet is pretty good)
That is first and foremost my concern right now but I’m also thrilled to think that I can finally get off the SSRI’s I have been on for 20+ years and Wellbutrin (not sure what class of drugs that is). I never thought it was possible! As I listen to more and more talks though I realize I will really need some guidance and I don’t think there is anyone in this area (NE Indiana) who can help us.
So my question: Will there be any discussion regarding children in the home study?
And I will gladly get on a waiting list to consult with you since you are not taking any new clients (I imagine you have been flooded as the word gets out about you!) You are just so fantastic and inspiring and encouraging; I will wait with patience and anticipation :).
So buried in above comments is my question: Will you be discussing children’s dosing? If not, do you have recommendations for like-minded practitioners that I could consult?
I just adore you! Thank you so much for your kind spirit and desire to help so many in this way!
Hi Ann
Thank you for your lovely comments – you have just made my day! 🙂
Well done for educating yourself and yes this will be the future of mental health and you and your family will not have to suffer life long anxiety and depression.
With kids I like to focus on food first but as far as the supplements go, for someone who is 62 lbs I would start with half an adult dose. The kids I’ve worked with who were not able to articulate how they felt have had their moms do the aminos/supps themselves and then do a one-at-a-time trial with the child and observe changes in behaviors/restlessness/play-time/sleep/distress/focus etc.
As far as the homestudy program goes, I’ve had a number of moms do it and take what they learn back to their families – with great success! And I love this approach of education and empowerment. The first time I did it we had plenty of Q and A calls and a private facebook group and I’ll offer this as an option too
Your family is lucky to have you!
I am also trying to go.meds free
How are you feeling?
Can inositol be taken with GABA Calm? With Theanine? Or only with tryptophan or 5htp?
Sharon
Inositol is fine with all of the above 🙂
Thanks, Trudy!
Trudy,
Did I recall right that you ever mentioned to take tryptophan/5HTP with vitamin B6 ( P-5-P, the active form) for better result ??
Thanks, Peggy
Peggy
B6 is a co-factor for making serotonin so yes it’s helpful to take with tryptophan or 5-HTP
Is the more common form of b6- pyridoxine hcl also good? If so, what dose do you recommend?
Hi Trudy
I’ve just found your page I’m from the UK and trying to find the right supplements for my son who is 23 years old, he has suffered with bpd, anxiety and ocd for a number of years but right now it’s the ocd that’s a worry. He’s started taking 5HTP at 100mg per tablet and on the bottle it says you can take 2 tablets per day but I would like some advice on doseage and your recommendations they are time released tablets . What would you suggest? Could really benefit from a nudge in the right direction
Sharron
I base dosing on symptoms and it can differ from person to person. We start low (50mg 5-HTP is a typical starting dose 2 x day) and we increase based on low serotonin symptom resolution. Here are the symptoms https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/
Also some people do well on 5-HTP and other do better on tryptophan so we switch if needed
When you are new to the amino acids (and other anxiety nutrition solutions like real whole food, quality animal protein, fermented foods, organic produce, health fats, 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/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
It’s a comprehensive approach – amino acids AND diet. What is his diet like right now – gluten-free, sugar-free, caffeine-free, eating protein at breakfast for blood sugar control, real whole foods, grass-fed red meat, wild fish, fermented foods etc?
Hi Trudy,
I want to start amino acid trials (tyrosine especially, for fatigue, terrible concentration, apathy, etc.) but I have reasons to suspect I may have a thyroid problem. I have a small bump on the left side of my throat where my thyroid is at and I am just always so apathetic and tired. I don’t have a doctor and I want to get my thyroid checked but I also want to start the amino acid trials to see what will help me with my energy and lack of motivation/bad concentration for now, while I get everything diagnosed and certain.
What do you recommend? What thyroid tests? What do you think of the ZRT Labs Thyroid blood spot test?
Thanks,
Judy
Judy
If we were working together, due to the bump I’d recommend seeing a doctor who can do a physical exam and the testing. Otherwise the ZRT test is a good one.
With fatigue, terrible concentration, apathy and lack of motivation I’d consider the thyroid, low catecholamines (and a tyrosine trial assuming precautions are ok), adrenals, low iron, low B12, gut issues and food sensitivities
So should I wait until I see what is up with my thyroid before I try the Tyrosine?
Hi – I’m hoping you can help de-mystify some of this for me! My daughter has MTHFR and anxiety/depression. She has tried many different depression meds but they lose efficacy after awhile.She takes 15 mg Deplin for the MTHFR but it also sounds like you are suggesting that may hurt instead of help. Would Inosotil make sense to try? Could Deplin and SSRIs be a bad combination?
Hi Lisa
I don’t like Deplin due to all the filers/colors. 15 mg is a lot – Dr Lynch says there is no set amount for anyone, and it can vary on a daily basis (plus it may be too much some days and not enough other days) – https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/anxiety-summit-methylfolate-anxiety/
I would suggest talking to the doctor about trying inositol
Thanks for the reply! It’s very difficult to find doctors to treat the MTHFR and anxiety at the same time. Would the inositol replace the deplin or her SSRI? Thank you!
Lisa – I would ask the doctor about L-5-MTHF product in place of Deplin and ask about adding inositol (which can help raise serotonin).
Is Hashimoto’s cureable or just managed?
Janet
I have seen antibodies come down and TSH normalize when factors like gluten sensitivity, dysbiosis etc are addressed
Hi Trudy,
I’d like to be notified when the homestudy course is available.
Can you recommend materials which would be a good starting place for pinpoionting supplements, nutrition …. for the myriad states 🙂 associated with FMS/CFS: anxiety, depression, exhaustion. I have basic Medicare which won’t cover alot but am willing to roll up my sleeves and self educate.
The online summits are grassroots wonderful! <3
All the best,
Nan Wood
Nan
Certainly and glad you enjoy the summits. Did you join in for the recent Abundant Energy Summit? a big focus was CFS.
Many many thanks! I went to the site and purchased CFS homework w/gratitude <3
Nan
I have severe OCD and have managed to just barely get through some days on 100mg of Zoloft. I am still breastfeeding and don’t want to increase the Zoloft (ideally I’d love to replace it all together); can I add inositol while nursing?
Kristin
I am sorry to hear this. I am not aware of any research supporting it’s use when breast-feeding. There is a study on it’s use during pregnancy (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22122627) so I’d share this with your doctor and ask him/her about using it.
Hi im under no meds yet they gave me zoloft but hav not draanked it
Im trying natraul routes im on week one of 5 htp woundering if i can drink inositol at the same time together?
I have postpartum depresstion and anxiety as weellll im not getting a good night sleep
Priscilla
I’m sorry to hear. Neither of these nutrients have been tested in breast-feeding so cannot be recommended. If someone isn’t breastfeeding then I will often use inositol with tryptophan (my first choice) or 5-HTP.
From what I can tell from my lay organic chemistry inositol looks like an oxidizing agent that is also highly carcinogenic. I am going from the Wikipedia article on it. I would not take it as a dietary supplement.
Aaron
I have not found any evidence that inositol is carcinogenic. I did find one paper showing it helps with cancer prevention https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14608114
Feel free to share a link to the study you’re referring to
Its cyclohexane with hydroxyl groups these will be ripped off as an oxidation reaction leaving cyclohexane is a carcinogen :-
http://www.cpchem.com/msds/100000068314_SDS_US_EN.PDF
Aaron
There is no evidence/research that I can find that indicates carcinogenic issues with insoitol. There is much evidence supporting many benefits for OCD, anxiety, panic, agoraphobia and even PCOS. I’m sharing the mainstream webmd link to help address some of your concerns http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-299-INOSITOL.aspx?activeIngredientId=299&activeIngredientName=INOSITOL
As I say please consult a proper biochemist before using such a substance.
I have been using DHEA for anxiety as it counterbalances cortisol. And have found it very effective in conjunction with other supplements. 25mg daily taken in two halves morning and evening.
Aaron
Thanks for sharing – it’s good to hear you have found a solution for your anxiety.
Hi Trudy, I’m a big fan of your work. I’ve been trying to tackle insomnia through the Tryptophan/GABA Mood Relaxer combo, but have had mixed results thus far. I’ve Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and am doing well on synthetic thyroid. Also have made significant headway recently in healing Leaky Gut. Primary issue now is staying asleep at night!
Recent labs showed my magnesium, selenium, zinc and B12 were in normal range, but my B6 was 2x above the high end of the range. I do believe I’ve high blood histamine, so will be exploring that further.
Appreciate your thoughts!
Jill
Please share more on what brands you’ve tried, how much, opened or swallowed, and the specifics of the mixed results and I’ll see if I can help
Thanks for the response! I’ve been taking Source Naturals Tryptophan (500 mgs – mid day and before bed) along with Country Life GABA Relaxer for nearly two months. Started GABA Calm (Source Naturals) midday about a month ago. Definitely feel calmer, but sleep maintenance is still erratic. No problems getting to sleep, but still frequently am awake for 2-3 hours in the middle of the night with ruminating thoughts.
Could the excessive B6 an issue w/ the Trytophan? (I do not supplement B6.)
Wondering if I need to tackle the high blood histamine to make progress on the sleep front?
Jill
GABA does not pass the blood brain barrier, Omega 3 plus B complex supplements are best, for the cells to manufacture GABA for them selves and not bypass the natural process. If GABA supplements do contain GABA then it means you may have a leaky blood brain barrier.
5-HTP converts to both melatonin and serotine preferring to convert to serotonin. It is best taken early in the day and not at night from experimenting over time with it.
Melatonin can back regulate and get converted back to serotonin if light levels are high particularly blue light, green and red lights seem to be better in that order.
Aaron
Thanks for your input. GABA does work extremely well for many people and I don’t believe it only works if you have a leaky blood brain barrier. Please feel free to read this blogpost that addresses some of the thoughts about GABA and the BBB https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/oral-gaba-supplementation/
I agree that a B complex is something most people could do with but not everyone needs omega-3 supplements especially those with pyroluria.
Our serotonin dips later in the day so boosting levels with nutrients tend to be done best later in the day – but we are all unique and 5-HTP may work better earlier for some. 5-HTP can also raise cortisol so if night-time cortisol is high then 5-HTP may make anxiety and the wired-tired feeling worse.
I’m not familiar with the melatonin/serotonin/light statement and am curious to know more
Jill
I find Lidtke tryptophan to be the best and start with 500mg MA and bedtime and increase (to about 2000mg) until my client doesn’t see additional benefits. Aminos need to be taken away from protein to be effective (your midday comment). Then we may add melatonin – either sublingual and/or timed-release (especially for waking in the night). Adding a tryptophan in the night can sometimes help too
We do the same with GABA products (and all aminos) – start low and increase based on results.
And look at other possible causes – parasites, high cortisol, low blood sugar etc
Trudy, what’s your view about some expert said, only small % of tryptophan gets converted into serotonin, the rest is turned into quinolinic acid which implicates as potent neurotoxic compound, major cause of neurological, psychiatric and degeneratic diseases; therefore it is highly recommended to use 5-HTP rather than tryptophan for treatment. Thanks, Peggy
Peggy
This is an area that I’m digging in to and will be blogging about. For now I don’t have enough evidence to be concerned. Can you please share which expert talked about this or provide a link?
Thanks
My MD today said that if GABA works for me then I must have inflammation in my gut. She said since it did work….it crossed my gut brain barrier and that is not good. I am confused. Please give me your thoughts please.
Christine
GABA does work extremely well for many people and I don’t believe it only works if you have a leaky blood brain barrier. Please feel free to read this blog post that addresses some of the theories about GABA and the BBB and share them with your doctor https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/oral-gaba-supplementation/
For me, if GABA works to calm a client (and is not causing any harm) then it’s a good thing!
Trudy,
Thanks for taking time out of your busy day to reply! After further research, I strongly believe that the root cause of my insomnia is related to High Histamine issues. Tryptophan does not appear to be one of the top recommendations for treatment. I’ve a LOT to learn about this inherited disorder. If you’ve any experts to recommend in this area it w/b much appreciated!!
Thank you for your contributions!
Jill
I would not discount tryptophan if it helps, together with my other recommendations. Joan Matthews Larson has a chapter on this in her book “Depression Free Naturally” and Dr William Walsh is another expert. I would discuss this with the practitioner who did the testing
Trudy,
Thanks again for your responses!! Do personally know of any top FM doctors in Minneapolis, MN? I could definitely use a referral if you have one.
Jill
Jill
Joan Mathews Larson is in Minneapolis, MN! http://www.healthrecovery.com/introduction/
Inositol doesn’t seem to work very well for me. Have you had any experience with other natural alternatives, like glycine, NAC, or milk thistle?
Sarah
I’m afraid I can’t help until I know what the issue is that you are trying to address. You say inositol doesn’t work very well – how well? and how much are you taking?
Trudy, here’s the link you asked for, regarding the presentation of Dr Shaw’s talking about tryptophan producing quinolinic acids which is inflammatory and toxic to brain health. Scroll down on Wendy’s website to see the video of “Role of Organic Acids in Human Metabolism”.
BTW, I was looking for Organic Acid Test in Great Plains Lab and ran into the seminar by Dr Bill Shaw mentioning the use of tryptophan/5-HTP etc.
http://store.liveto110.com/functional-medical-tests/organic-acids-test-oat-interpretation/
Thanks Peggy – I’m aware that Dr Shaw is very vocal about this topic. As I mentioned I have not seen tryptophan to be an issue across the board. I will do a blog post on this topic in the near future
I was born at 26 weeks, was incubated, and wasn’t breastfed. After arriving home months later I experienced pyloric stenosis. Is this the sort of history that might point towards pyroluria in people? Would parents want to follow some supplemental guidelines with preemies in the first few years to insure they have access to the ‘missing links’ they didn’t receive the first few months of life to insure a healthier future.
What is your opinion of a free form aminos multiple formula(and should they be taken between meals)
Many thanks,
Nan
Nan
I’m not aware of a connection between pyloric stenosis and pyroluria. And yes there is much that can be done for premies, one of them being supporting the microbiome.
I like free form aminos when someone needs additional support/nourishment, is a vegetarian, is recovering from an injury etc and typically have someone take them with a meal
Hi Trudy,
I want to start taking Inosital for anxiety and slight OCD (more obsessive than compulsive) – I found a few articles on the web that talked about Inositol decreasing testosterone levels and not to be taken if you plan to get pregnant at some point.
Have you heard about Inositol and hormone levels and if so, what are you thoughts on it?
Many thanks,
Michelle
Michelle
I’d need to see the article and research to be able to comment. I can tell you that based on clinical results and the research I’ve seen it’s fabulous for female hormone balance, mood health (serotonin) and even PCOS.
Have you noticed any association between amino acids and urinary tract infection (UTI)?
I was UTI free for 3 years until I started tryptophan (500 mg) and got UTI immediately. Doctor Google told that some people have sensitivities to phenylalanine, tryptophan, tyrosine and tyramine that cause bladder irritations or interstial cystitis.
Noora
Only once in 10 years have I heard something similar and it was with 5-HTP.
Per the amino acid precautions (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acid-precautions/) kidney problems could be a possible factor – “Consult a knowledgeable practitioner before taking any supplemental amino acids if you have severe liver or kidney problems.” The history of UTIs would likely be a clue.
That said I work with many folks with a history of UTIs and they do fine on all the aminos.
It’s not really something you want to repeat to confirm.
I would also look at the brand and make sure it’s clean and pure
Hello,
I have OCD and anxiety, it started at a young age and has gotten worse. I was on Paxil and now on Zoloft I eat a healthy whole food diet, free from sugar, preservatives and processed foods. I hear so many things from counseling with an OCD doctor that uses exposure and response therapy to biofeedback, massage, 5HTP, root canal, ect. I am so confused where to start. I did the questionnaire and with low serotonin and catecholamine are the two areas I rate high. Could you please tell me where to begin, blood test, who to meet with and other material that might be helpful. I would love to set up a consultation with you, but unfortunately, you are not taking new clients. I am so excited to finally find someone who understands this awful torment that people with anxiety/OCD have to deal with.
Hi LisaAnn
There can be many factors that contribute to OCD and anxiety – low serotonin is just one. I have my clients do the questionnaire and then we do a trial of the respective amino acid/s and see how they do. Here is a new blog on doing a trial https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/how-to-do-an-amino-acid-trial-for-anxiety/
The great thing is we often see results right away and then have time to figure out other possible issues
My practice for one-on-one consulting is full right now but I am offering a homestudy Amazing Aminos for Anxiety because I know many people are wanting to learn about how to use the amino acids and need guidance. We have just launched https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-amazing-aminos-for-anxiety-homestudy-program-launch/
Hi Trudy! I was having a daily anxiety for a few months and my phisycal sumptoms (chest pressure, stomack knot..)have gotten so much better since i started treathing a leaky gut (cleansing products and probiotics). However lateley i started having scary, violante thoughts (which scare the hell out of me). I have no idea where they are coming from and why they are there but i have been reading that they might be OCD related. I started KAL brand inositol powder (2g a day and planned on working my way up) but it gave me the worst OCD moments after 30 minutes or so of taking it. I purchased the brand you recommend but I am so afraid of taking it. Have you seen anyone with the same reaction?
Thanks a lot!
Sent from my iPhone
Jenn
I’m afraid I have not but too much of some nutrients can cause a worse effect
Hi! Quick question. Had my daughters serotonin level checked. Range for labcorp showed 0 to 420. It says hers is a 9 but under the normal category. I’m thinking that’s really low and not normal. Read your book! Loved it! She has pandas (OCD anxiety from strep). She also suffers from severe intrusive thoughts/depression I was thinking about doing the tryptophan??? GABA makes her horribly worse as did phosphatidyl as increased depression OCD bad intrusive thoughts. She is undergoing subq Ig plasma also as antibiotics were short term and cured her for a year but then stopped.
Margee
I don’t know how old your daughter is but I like the Lidtke chewable tryptophan 100mg for kids. Inositol may also help with intrusive thoughts
Hello Trudy,
Does the Homestudy Course include information on depression as well as anxiety?
Nan
Nan
The focus of this program is not depression but many of the neurotransmitters can impact depression and mood and we address those areas: low serotonin, low endorphins and low catecholamines. We also discuss healthy eating, removing gluten, hormones etc all of which can affect mood. And we cover SSRIs and the aminos. Many people in the prior program found wonderful mood improvements.
What is the highest mg you can take per dose of inositol, 5htp or tryptophan and how many times a day? I suffer from mental and physical anxiety. I am currently taking 100-150 of 5htp 3-4x a day along with gaba calm or true calm and about 600-1200mgs of inositol. What are the side effects of to much of each or how do you know if you are not taking enough? Sometime a add relora 200mg
I also have thoughts that I just can’t seem to get rid of. Like, you are going to have a panic attact and ruin it for you family. And fear of a panic/anxiety attack or long road trips
Cori
The amount depends on each individual’s unique needs. For mental anxiety Lidtke tryptophan starting at 500mg MA and evening, for physical anxiety GABA starting at 125mg 2-4 x day and inositol starting at 2g 2-3 x day. I have my clients start low and increase based on symptoms. If not added benefits they back down. Too much of these aminos can make you too tired or too relaxed.
For the inositol is that 2g per dose or for the whole day?
I was wondering if you knew about the work of Paul Jaminet who wrote The
Perfect Health Diet. This diet seems to have helped many people with
physical and/or mental issues.
I recently read this blog post:
http://perfecthealthdiet.com/2010/07/eleven-steps-for-overcoming-alzheimer%E2%80%99s-and-other-chronic-infectious-diseases/
And was wondering what you thought about what he has to say about
Tryptophan supplementation:
“Indeed, the body’s primary defense mechanism against *C. pneumoniae* is
tryptophan deprivation. This is why people with chronic brain infections
have symptoms of serotonin deprivation, including depression, anxiety,
insomnia, fatigue, impaired ability to concentrate, and low
self-confidence. It’s important not to relieve this by tryptophan or 5-HTP
supplementation, both of which promote bacterial growth.”
Have you come across C. pneumoniae infections in your clients, or test for them?
I just found it interesting and wanted to share it with you.
Claire
Great question that I do not have an answer for. I know nothing about C. pneumoniae and was not even aware of the mental health and Alzheimer’s connection to this. I cannot find any research that states that tryptophan and 5-HTP promote bacterial growth. I have also not heard anyone speak about this either.
I did find a few studies that discuss tryptophan and other amino acids and C. pneumoniae (here is one http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16772415) but none on supplementation.
I’ve posted a comment on his blog asking if he can share a link to some research on supplementation itself. But it may be that supplementation has not been studied and he’s inferring it from the other research
Thanks for bringing it to my attention. It is interesting and is yet another area for me to explore and learn about!
Hi Trudy,
For the last couple of months I suffer from severe anxiety. Earlier I was on lexapro 10mg and got better after which I tapered the medication off completely. However the anxiety came back a couple of months after the stopping of the medication and I wasn’t keen to start on medications again.
I found your website and decided to take on 5HTP.
I felt better immediately on 5htp (100mg) but then noticed severe dizzy spells when I lay down on my bed or sleeping or turn abruptly.
My question to you is
1. Are dizzy spells a side-effect of 5htp?
2. Does this mean I need to stop taking it completely or take a lower dose of say 50mg?
3. Do you recommend any alternative to 5htp?
4. Could the dizzy spells be symptoms of Low blood sugar or dehydration?
Thanks in advance
Yasmin
Yasmeen
I can’t give you specific advice via the blog. If my clients have adverse effects with 5-HTP I would have them stop and see if the symptoms go away or lower the 5-HTP and see if the symptoms go away or switch to tryptophan (since the 5-HTP did help). Dizziness is not something my clients have reported with 5-HTP but anything is possible. Low blood sugar can cause dizziness, anxiety, irritability, cravings etc.
Hi,
I have been suffering with anxiety, OCD, depression and ptsd ever since I was 12 (I’m 24 now) I have been on so many different meds throughout the years that finally last May with my doctors permission I was taken off all meds except for Xanax as needed. I also suffer from IBS that seems to get worse when driving and having no where to stop and that’s when my anxiety and OCD really goes. I’m at the point where I sometimes can’t drive 10 minutes without having to stop at a store to use the bathroom. I am on loperamide for my stomach and it doesn’t help at all. I am absolutely desperate at this point as I don’t even want to drive anywhere anymore and to top things off my mother recently was diagnosed with sage 4 breast cancer and the facility she is going to is about almost 2 hours away from me and I have yet to go because of my IBS and driving. I have been looking into these supplements : SAM-E, GABA, 5 HTP, INOSITOL, L-THEANINE, and CALM PRT. I am obviously not going to take these all at the same time but was wondering if you can help me figure out which ones would best suit my OCD, anxiety and IBS issues? Thank you so much for taking the time to read.
Hi Trudy,
My 13 years old son has been suffering with anxiety and OCD thoughts for almost a year now. I have tried supplementing him with Omega and multivitamins. I have read a lot about anxiety, listened to you on Womens’ Hormones Summit and wanted to book an appointment with you. I found out that you are not taking new patients. As we live in UK ,I could not find any good naturopath doctors.Can you recommend anyone in UK?
I have looked at the symptoms questionairie and can see that my son is serotonin and catecholamine deficient. Where do I start?Inositol or tryptophan? I strongly believe in using natural supplements rather than meds,but not sure about aminos as I have never used them before.We hardly use even the paracetamol ,treating colds with essential oils…any help and suggestions appreciated as we are desperate for help-talking therapy seems no use for my son and he finds himself struggling immensely everyday (when I mentioned that he can get better with supplements I could see disbelief on his face).
Hello Trudy,
It is me again. My son used to be a funny,happy boy. Used to like playing basketball.But I can see his behaviors changing so quick-he started avoiding people,asking always for re-assurance.And I know that this is all due to his OCD,but during the last three weeks it became so upsetting for him that towards the evening he cries out of desperation ….
I am waiting for inositol to arrive as well as B6. I would love to have any advice on this.His father is serotonin defficient as well as his grandmother from father’s side.They have been on ADs for many years.I am willing to try any supplements for my son…
Diana
Sorry to hear this. The inositol often works really well for OCD. I’d also have him do the amino acid questionnaire and if low serotonin do a trial of tryptophan too, and look into a full spectrum lamp. Also consider strep and PANDAs. And of course address diet – protein at breakfast, no gluten, no caffeine, no sugar.
I have an 8 year old grandson who has developed some anger issues & has been acting on them physically. Because GABA is calming, I suggested he start on it. He still experiences anger but not as intense & rarely has outbursts. He is also less argumentative. What is your take on this and do you think there is a better option?
Lisa
I’m glad to hear the GABA helped (may I ask what product and how much?) Low serotonin can also cause anger I would suggest looking at the the amino acid questionnaire and possibly considering an amino acid trial with tryptophan (Lidtke makes a nice chewable https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/).
Here is the questionnaire https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/ and info on doing a trial https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/how-to-do-an-amino-acid-trial-for-anxiety/
Food is the foundation and no amino acids or other supps will fix things unless there is no gluten, sugar, caffeine in the picture and he’s eating real whole foods and eating protein at breakfast (to help with blood sugar balance and mood swings).
Hi Trudy. Thank you so much for what you do!
I have suffered from low grade anxiety most of my life (it gets better and worse), have leaky gut (digestive problems, bloating, acne) and an autoimmune disease (osteoarthritis, history of eye inflammation/uveitis).
I believe i have parasites (i had them in the past) and candida, too.
Could you please advice me on what to do first (in which order to do the following) :
– cleanse of parasites/candida/SIBO,
– heal the leaky gut,
– treat pyroluria (my urine test came negative but i still suspect i might have it due to scoring very high in the questionnaire/especially the physical aspects part eg.crowded front teeth etc)
– supplementing digestive enzymes/HCL (my blood type is A, so i have low stomac acid, and digestive problems eg.constant bloating etc)
– general supplementation (i’m low on D3, and have a history of taking steroids so probably have many deficiences).
Please help.
Thank you in advance!
Maria
I’m sorry to hear this but can’t consult via the blog. Overall, all of this is important and I address all these factors when working with a client as they are all so inter-connected eg. low stomach acid can contribute to dysbiosis/candida and good stomach acid is needed for zinc absorption. In general you can’t go wrong focusing on gut health.
I came across your website after Googling “Inisitol and OCD” and wanted to find out of you can offer me any advice/guidance please…. I am desperate.
We live in Johannesburg, South Africa, and there are not many specialists in this field who can assist with natural alternatives. I have found a Dr in Pretoria who is helping but I am questioning his methods hence my internet searches.
My 15 year old son developed OCD about a year ago and was put onto Zoloft 50mg which seemed to help him cope but after 5 months the wheels fell off in Dec 2015. He was hospitalised for a few days in Jan 2016 for the child psychiatrist to monitor him and adjust the meds. He was put onto 100mg Zoloft and 0.25g Risperdal (antipsychotic) / day.
Together with CBT he made an amazing recovery within a few weeks and remained so until mid April when once again the OCD returned .. and got worse than before. After a few weeks we decided to look at alternatives because we felt that the drugs were obviously not working and could not be a long term solution. In 2009, when he was 8 years old, we had done a QEEG on him and I remembered then that he have very high Beta brain waves (spindles) and Delta waves. His Theta and Alpha waves were very low. I investigated the Neurotheraphy as an option and he has been doing this now for about 3 weeks. The therapist recommended a general practitioner who cold assist with amino acids etc and weaning him off the strong drugs.
The Dr gave us:
1 Ultra Flora Probiotic (early morning on empty stomach)
100mg HTP5 (increased to 150mg and now 200mg in last week)
2 capsules/twice a day – Metagenics Trancor (morning and night)
2 capsules at night – Metagenics Benesom (night)
I have also always given him Omega Oils, Zinc and B Complex vitamins.
Blood tests showed he is very healthy in every aspect except he had practically no serotonin in his system and his iron was very low so I have started him on a supplement for that.
After 5 weeks we are not seeing much of a difference to be honest and the OCD intrusive thoughts are getting worse. My son also shows Aspergers tendencies but through lots of therapies etc… when he was younger, he has managed to mainstream school in Gr 5 and is currently in Gr 9.
Would you recommend Inisitol added together with the HTP5? Is the HTP5 dose correct because I have read numerous blogs that use up 300mg doses for severe OCD?
If you are able to offer any advice it would be greatly appreciated…. our family is not coping at the moment and I’m beyond exhausted. I am being pressured to take him back to Psychiatrist but I am very hesitant considering he developed the OCD for the second time while still on all the traditional drugs. I simply can not live like this if it comes back every 4/5 months. Please can you help.
Thanking you in advance,
Megan
Megan
I’m afraid I can’t give you specific advice but with OCD I think gluten-free first and assume you have addressed this and all the basics (like real whole food, animal protein at breakfast for blood sugar control, no caffeine, no sugar, healthy fats etc). Then I look at low serotonin. I use tryptophan but some people do well with 5-HTP and/or tryptophan. We increase until we don’t see additional benefits (eg 50mg 5-HTP OCD = 9/10, 100mg OCD = 8/10, 150mg OCD = 7/10 and so on) and then I add inositol up to 18g /day. Another thing to consider with OCD is past strep infections and PANDAs, and also Lyme disease and other infections.
Here is the gluten OCD case study https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/integrative-medicine-approach-pediatric-ocd-anxiety/
Hi Trudy,
Thank you for your reply.
Yes, he is on a gluten free diet and 95% sugar free… not always easy with teenagers.
I am not 100% sure but other blogs I have read seem to indicate a difference between myo-Inositol and Inositol hexaphosphate(phytic acid) with regards to OCD treatment… indicating that I should use myo-Inositol. The only powder I could find in RSA is called Panaxea Inositol. There is no indication on label as to which one it is and their website seems to only be for practitioners. Can you advise if there is a difference in efficacy for OCD treatment? Thanks, again!
Megan
You’d have to check with the company as I can’t even see what’s in the product. I have used inositol with great success. My supps are listed here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
Hi everyone here’s my experience with inositol supplementation. I use it for mental OCD (rumiating thoughts negative thought etc) as well and GAD after a strong episode of psychosis which lasted about 5 months and left me feeling unsure of myself and with some level of claustrophobia. I read about inositol and thought to myself I had nothing to lose. I took citalopram about three years ago when the crisis happened (the lowest dose) but even then when I went of the pills it was hard withdrawal symptoms like electricity currents on my head and feeling ” off”. I never went back to celexa again. So I started the inositol 1/8 tsp as directed ( I used Kal brand) and almost immediately I felt jittery and restless with dizzyness for like 30 minutes which I breathed it out and tried to think positive thoughts. After the feeling subsided I felt a a little drowsy and on the same day the rummiating thoughts stopped completely. I did not repeat the second and third doses of the day as the bottle said because of my original reaction, but I didn’t needed to after three days my anxiety and rumiating thoughts did not return I could easily relax and be in the moment all the time being able to feel my mind quiet and feeling like myself in three years. I also slept so much better and woke up rested. After the three days i was worried about the effect going off that I just sprinkled a pinch into my food the fourth and fifth and so far it has lasted me two days more. I tend to be sensitive with blood thinners as I cannot take acetaminophen i get horrible passing out like feelings with just 325 mgs so I probably am sensitive to the 1/8 dose of inositol as well thats why i only add a pinch. But for me so far as Im writting this the inositol was a true Godsend Im able to feel calm and not overly sensitive to sounds and situations as I was without the off feeling of regular antianxiety meds. I can think ( with celexa I could not focus or think deep thoughts ,could not create, I would feel in a sense “numbed down” blocked Unnemotional . I wouldn’t be affective to my husband or family I was there but not really in the moment. It seems I only need a small amount for it to work on me and that gives me hope I wasn’t so deficient I has turned off the fight or flight I was in 24/7 and It helps me to sleep and actually feel rested the next day,my muscle tension is virtually gone as I was finally able to relax (not having to fight your own mind 24/7 is awesome ) I thank God every single morning I can be myself again I haven’t tried 5htp yet but I think I will stay with the inositol pinches for now . Thank you for the wonderful insight I found in this forum as I was able to relate to many of the comments I found. Thank you for the amazing hope we can find here and to be able to find ways to take our lives back. I hope with all my heart that everyone can find some natural way of dealing with our situations and being healthy and happy. Blessings from Puerto Rico
Bonnie
Thanks for sharing your good experience and thanks for the encouragement for others here 🙂
Hi, I was wondering if you could help me. My daughter is 11 and she has intrusive thoughts that cause her to confess everything to me. I have had OCD in the past and recognize her symptoms. She is 5’4 and weighs 145. Can you tell me how much Inositol to give her and anything else that you can recommend. I have ordered a high potency multivitamin but it only has 10mg of Inositol in it. I am trying to keep her away from sugar although she likes to have a treat on Saturdays. She has been tested about 3-4 months ago for Celiac Disease and it came back negative. She was having stomach problems and diarrhea at the time. That has subsided but it seems that OCD has taken it’s place. Please help us. It seems to be getting worse.
Thank You.
Julie
The adult dose (120lbs) is up to 18g of inositol a day but I start with 2g and go up slowly. I actually start with tryptophan (helps with sugar cravings too) and then add inositol if needed.
I would not rely on celiac disease testing unless it was done by Cyrex labs (Dr. Tom covers this here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/gluten-anxiety-testing-conundrum/). Here is a gluten-OCD case study https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/integrative-medicine-approach-pediatric-ocd-anxiety/
I would also look into PANDAs and past strep infections
Eat all at once, don’t care about it? inositol 18 g
I’m not sure about your question but if you’re asking about taking 18g of inositol at once here is my answer: 18g is the max per the research, I start my clients on 2 g twice a day and build up to 18g (over about a week or 2) if needed
Hi Trudy!
A couple of months ago I ended up with a very stubborn bladder infection. I was working with a Naturopath to treat it without antibiotics but it took so much longer than I expected. Somehow this bladder infection triggered really bad anxiety/depression and messed up my sleep. I have PCOS, and have always been prone to depression/anxiety but I had managed to keep it under control with diet and lifestyle up until the bladder infection happened. I just started taking the Inositol today (6g) and so far I haven’t noticed any difference. :'( It’s so hard to be patient because am so desperate to feel normal again. How long does it take to know if it is helping? What is a safe amount to increase daily? Thank you!
Cheryl
With the correct amount relief is immediate, that is assuming this is what is causing the anxiety/depression/insomnia. I have gone up to 18g/day with clients with good results.
If that doesn’t help I’d look at overall gut health as even natural antibiotics can disrupt gut flora (and thereby affect serotonin and GABA levels). Looking at GABA or tryptophan trials would be my next step, plus ways to reduce any inflammatory markers caused by the infection.
Hi Trudy, great article.
I was planning to start inositol to try to control my ocd but i got very worried after i read someone commenting about it´s relation to cancer.
Is there any evidence that it can cause cancer? Did you find anything since this comment i mention was posted?
Please, let me know if it´s something to worry about or if just another internet nonsense.
Thanks a lot!
Paulo
I have not found anything else that concerns me
Thanks. I will give it a try. It’s funny how a comment with no evidence (i mean the one about cancer risk on inositol) scares who have ocd.
Hi Trudy,
I’ve been suffering from depression/anxiety/ocd and is currently on zyprexa, lexapro & luvox. Please advice if its ok to take isositol along with these medications.
Thanks
Asif
Asif
Both Lexapro and Luvox are SSRIs and there are a number of studies showing that augmentation of an SSRI with inositol is beneficial for some individuals with OCD. Some individuals don’t see any benefits. Here is one example – Inositol augmentation of serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder: an open trial. (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10565802)
I have worked with a number of clients on a single SSRI who have successfully added inositol (with their doctor’s approval).
Zyprexa is an antipsychotic and I have no experience with this medication and don’t see any studies on augmentation with inositol.
I would suggest sharing the above with your prescribing doctor and getting their approval before making any changes.
Hi Trudy,
I suffer from OCD and intrusive thoughts, mostly with only mental compulsions. I have read this post and was wondering which supplement I should start with? inositol, tyrptophan, or 5htp? I am not currently on any medications but am suffering a great deal. I’d appreciate any advice you can give. Thanks in advance,
megan
Megan
I typically start my clients on tryptophan as low serotonin can cause OCD and intrusive thoughts. If the tryptophan doesn’t work then we try 5-HTP (some people do better on once vs the other)
Once we find the ideal amount of tryptophan or 5-HTP for all the low serotonin symptoms (worry, anxiety, insomnia, PMS etc), including the OCD, we may then add in inositol to get additional OCD benefits.
I have clients do the amino acid questionnire, review the precautions and do a trial https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/anxiety-amino-acids-overview/
With OCD we must also consider gluten issues and strep/PANDAs
Thanks for your reply! How much tryptophan should i start with? I also take a Vitamin B Complex and Fish Oil Omega-3 daily now. Also, could you give me more info on gluten in relation to OCD?
Megan
The starting dose of tryptophan is 500mg, less for sensitive folks.
Gluten sensitivity can be a factor with any mental health disorder, one of them being OCD. Here is a pediatric case study https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/integrative-medicine-approach-pediatric-ocd-anxiety/. It’s likely due to leaky gut/malabsorption, gluteomorphins, depleted serotonin and depleted zinc and iron.
Hey Trudy! Thanks for this article. I bought your book a few years back and just now came across this. I was researching inositol for ocd/panic attacks from a recent blog that Dr. Mercola posted on Fb . Many people responded to my comment and it was suggested to try inositol amongst other things that I need to get tested for and to take. I already eat a whole foods, no gluten, no processed diet. So, my search continues. Thanks for writing the book. You have suggestions on supplement’s to take in your book and I researched what I needed from your suggestion and didn’t feel comfortable with any of the suggestions due to the possible side effects. Not saying anything bad. To each its own and everyone is different. That is why my search continues. lol Thanks again..
Audrey
I hope this has helped you so you are more willing to try inositol for your OCD?
Thanks for the book feedback – I would love to hear which supplements you had concerns about due to possible side effects so I can try and allay those concerns?
If you could share how you score on the low serotonin section of the amino acid questionnaire (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/) too that would help me help you. I’m guessing you have low serotonin symptoms because you mention OCD. Many of my clients with low serotonin are fearful of using certain supplements simply because they have low serotonin – so I encourage you to consider that aspect too 🙂
Hi Trudy
I understand at the present time you aren’t taking on any new patients, and restructuring your packages.
So in the meantime I’d like to ask you a question about my anxiety/panic/OCD.
I’ve tried many things through years to improve/overcome my mental health struggles using mostly conventional psychotherapy (CBT) with little to moderate success. So I decided to look into alternative ways to better or beat my condition.
This has led me to listen to tons of podcasts, mostly from the US, of doctors, nutritionists, and those in the health/wellness industry spruiking about their common theories to how one develops a mental health condition.
The hypothesis range from: dietary or methylation problems, nutritional deficiencies, to epigentics/mutations, food intolerances, poor gut-health, leaky-gut, histamine levels, etc, all mostly claiming that disease comes from these issues, and anxiety/OCD being one of them.
I’m a big sceptic, been tested for things like MTHFR mutation, leaky-gut and stool sampled. Results came back with a mutation, ‘slight’ leaky-gut, and high strep, low e-coli for the stool.
The doctor got me on supplements that I tried for almost two months, with no improvement at all.
I’ve always been a positive person, but have been ripped off by ‘snake-oil’ salesman in the past, who claimed they could cure anxiety. Only out of desperation did I decide to give it a try, and again had no luck.
I even have developed a mistrust of the supplement industry, and feel that we should be able to get all our nutrients from good whole food. I think that this industry is set-up to sell products that offer nothing but a possible placebo effect; and this might sound over the top, but the industry has indirectly created professions such as naturopaths and nutritionists to sell these company’s products!?
I don’t want to sound disrespectful, but I have yet to have any success with supps, and my frustration with being in this position has made me question everything and a little jaded.
I am still open-minded, and these days take every new technique or theory with a pinch of salt, and are mindful not to get my hopes up.
So, I came across your work listening to a podcast you were on only last week, which was not indifferent to the views on health/bio-hacking by the likes of Dave Asprey, Dr Rhonda Patrick, and Dr Perlmutter, etc.
I decided what the hell, and I bought your book even though I believe it will be full of the stuff I already know about, but who knows, there might be a tiny bit of information in there that might help a little!?
I’ve digressed. When I listen to the above mentioned podcasts, all somewhat claiming that anxiety isn’t a disease you get, it is a result of, for example a poor gut or diet, I get the same burning question.
I’m 36, and I’ve been anxious since early childhood, so how would that explain the claims that anxiety is the result of poor gut health, and I couldn’t have been around long enough to negatively affect my gut!?
I hope that made sense, and I’d be interested to hear your thoughts and reply.
I’m on your waiting list, and look forward to having a further discussion at some stage soon.
Regards
Troy Cummings
Hey there! Thanks so much for your work and all the information you provide here and other places. Im just stumbling onto your site for the first time and am SO thankful for what Ive found here.
I run a few support groups, one for folks with OCD, and a few others which focus on women who suffer with a postpartum mood disorder. I have OCD, purely obsessive rather than performing outward compulsions (I worry about unrealistic fears) and I haven’t depended on any meds to help me along in my own recovery. I tried Lexapro once after my psychiatrist strongly encouraged it, but after two days and constant panic attacks, I stopped.
Basically since I started treatment in November of 2015, Ive been largely symptom free, but thats been solely because of CBT and ERP therapy. During ovulation and menstruation I notice my symptoms return, and intrusive thoughts are much more difficult to just shrug off as silly or inanimate.
Id love to sit and just pick your brain and perhaps interview you. If thats possible, and if we could chat more, please let me know! If not, because Im sure you are massively busy being amazing, could you direct me to some of the resources you recommend, per the tiny bit of background Ive shared here with you?
Id like to pass information on to the many people who reach out to me for support and information, so anything you can offer is much appreciated!
Blessings!
Alex
Alex
How wonderful that you’re helping others and have found that therapy helps. I’d suggest looking into tryptophan, 5-HTP and inositol as serotonin is closely tied to hormonal health. Intrusive thoughts are never silly and can be eliminated completely when you balance brain chemistry.
Some resources: this blog is a wealth of information (use the search area), my book The Antianxiety Food Solution (http://amzn.to/2cJHSGH), The Anxiety Summit now in it’s 4th season (http://www.theanxietysummit.com/)
Hi Trudy!
I’m currently 10 weeks post partum and have been diagnosed with OCD (intrusive thoughts) mental compulsions. I am currently having thoughts/feelings that I’m not in love w my SO. I really hope it is just OCD but it feels so real and it’s so upsetting. I was put on Zoloft 4 weeks ago but have discontinued that due to being scared of th emotional numbing side effects. I have been looking into trying inositol as I have read many good things about it for OCD. Are there any other supplements you can recommend to try with this? Or should I try it alone? I also haven’t really been eating bc I’ve been so worried about all of my thoughts. I also saw where you tell pool to get tested to th strep thing. I used to get strep throat ALL the time when I was younger. A lot of people do in my family. Is this what you are referring to and could it have an effect on me just now? Should I look into this?
Thank you!
Brittani
I’m sorry to hear this. I would have a functional medicine doctor check for strep titers via Great Plains lab.
I’d also work with someone on introducing insositol and possibly tryptophan too. I have all my clients do the amino acid questionnaire and do amino acid trials based on those results i.e. GABA may be needed too.
Here is some additional information on other possible causes of postpartum mood issues https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/nutritional-interventions-postpartum-depression-and-anxiety/
And don’t forget the basics like good nourishment, healthy fats, eating for blood sugar control (animal protein in the morning) and skipping coffee/sugar/gluten, gut health (eating fermented foods), nourishing broths, getting enough sleep (often challenging but look for help if it’s not happening)
Hello
From reading through the various replies I see you recommend for several people to look into PANDAS and past strep infections as possible causes for their OCD and anxiety disorder.
What’s the reasoning for this? If in fact it is surmised that an anxiety disorder is caused by past strep infections, is there a different treatment approach? Or is it just pinpointing the most likely cause of the disorder?
I ask because my mother mentioned I was constantly sick with strep throat when I was younger. I was probably about one infection away from just getting my tonsils yanked. I don’t know if this is the same type of bacteria in which you are referring to.
I’m curious as to if I get tested and find the strep titers of which you refer, will that or could that change my treatment options?
Thanks.
J
If PANDAS and past strep infections are the cause of the OCD and anxiety then it has to be addressed by removing the infection. A PANDAs doctor would be able to help and do the strep titer testing. Great Plains offers this testing.
In the meantime, GABA, tryptophan and inositol may provide some relief
Hi Trudy, I just purchased L-Tryptophan powder from Micro Ingredients on Amazon. However, I am scared to take it now after reading about EMS-related deaths in 1989 tied to contaminated tryptophan from a Japanese company. Apparently, absolutely pure tryptophan should be safe, but because it is considered a supplement, it is not regulated by the FDA for purity. As a result, it feels very risky leaving it up to the manufacturer to regulate themselves. Is there a particular brand you trust has the most stringent filtering prices to eliminate potential for EMS RISK? Thanks so much!
Brigs
Yes I only ever recommend Lidtke Tryptophan. I have not even heard of this brand and would not use it.
Here is some info https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/tryptophan-500mg-or-tryptophan-complete-lidtke/ and my online store link https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
Trudy,
I came across your website as I am doing a supplements project for my boss. In researching inositol, I was pleasantly supersized to read it’s benefits for OCD. Do practitioners do a test for serotonin levels (blood work?). I have never been clinically diagnosed with OCD but I am positive I have a chemical imbalance. Typical scenario — I take 2 hours to grocery shop, put things in and out of my cart, it’s like decision anxiety, what if I can get it cheaper somewhere else. I second guess EVERY decision for everything. Last week it took me 3 times to the store to buy a can opener. That’s just one of many, many examples…I drive myself and everyone else mad.
I’ve read the studies you’ve provided and made note of the recommended dosages. I’d like to just purchase a product that you recommend, don’t really want to open pandoras medical box unless absolutely necessary.
Would be grateful for any advice and guidance you can give.
Thanks
Katie
Katie
I use the amino acid questionnaire and response to supplement trials. With symptoms like this I start with tryptophan and then add inositol if additional support is needed. GABA may help too.
Hi Trudy, just re-posting this as it was the only one on the thread that didn’t receive a reply.
I understand at the present time you aren’t taking on any new patients, and restructuring your packages.
So in the meantime I’d like to ask you a question about my anxiety/panic/OCD.
I’ve tried many things through years to improve/overcome my mental health struggles using mostly conventional psychotherapy (CBT) with little to moderate success. So I decided to look into alternative ways to better or beat my condition.
This has led me to listen to tons of podcasts, mostly from the US, of doctors, nutritionists, and those in the health/wellness industry spruiking about their common theories to how one develops a mental health condition.
The hypothesis range from: dietary or methylation problems, nutritional deficiencies, to epigentics/mutations, food intolerances, poor gut-health, leaky-gut, histamine levels, etc, all mostly claiming that disease comes from these issues, and anxiety/OCD being one of them.
I’m a big sceptic, been tested for things like MTHFR mutation, leaky-gut and stool sampled. Results came back with a mutation, ‘slight’ leaky-gut, and high strep, low e-coli for the stool.
The doctor got me on supplements that I tried for almost two months, with no improvement at all.
I’ve always been a positive person, but have been ripped off by ‘snake-oil’ salesman in the past, who claimed they could cure anxiety. Only out of desperation did I decide to give it a try, and again had no luck.
I even have developed a mistrust of the supplement industry, and feel that we should be able to get all our nutrients from good whole food. I think that this industry is set-up to sell products that offer nothing but a possible placebo effect; and this might sound over the top, but the industry has indirectly created professions such as naturopaths and nutritionists to sell these company’s products!?
I don’t want to sound disrespectful, but I have yet to have any success with supps, and my frustration with being in this position has made me question everything and a little jaded.
I am still open-minded, and these days take every new technique or theory with a pinch of salt, and are mindful not to get my hopes up.
So, I came across your work listening to a podcast you were on only last week, which was not indifferent to the views on health/bio-hacking by the likes of Dave Asprey, Dr Rhonda Patrick, and Dr Perlmutter, etc.
I decided what the hell, and I bought your book even though I believe it will be full of the stuff I already know about, but who knows, there might be a tiny bit of information in there that might help a little!?
I’ve digressed. When I listen to the above mentioned podcasts, all somewhat claiming that anxiety isn’t a disease you get, it is a result of, for example a poor gut or diet, I get the same burning question.
I’m 36, and I’ve been anxious since early childhood, so how would that explain the claims that anxiety is the result of poor gut health, and I couldn’t have been around long enough to negatively affect my gut!?
I hope that made sense, and I’d be interested to hear your thoughts and reply.
I’m on your waiting list, and look forward to having a further discussion at some stage soon.
Regards
Troy Cummings
Hi Trudy, regarding anxiety and compulsive thinking/OCD counting behaviors in a 12 year old, have you experienced (or heard through client sharing) a correlation with certain foods or inflammatory compounds? In a younger person, I am trying figure out the triggers if there is low production of certain neurotransmitters driving the symptoms. This child in particular has had a long history of allergies and terrible asthma (requiring nebulizer treatments) so I’ve long suspected food sensitivities as a driver for systemic inflammation but am trying o connect the dots for her parent. The counting seems to be a distraction of sorts for her I assume following a triggering thought. This parent is very new to integrative therapies so treating with an amino acid is going to *feel* like she’s not doing enough as parent. Standard talk therapy has not helped.
Sarah
I always consider gluten and even dairy and other food intolerances. Here is a wonderful paper on this very topic https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/integrative-medicine-approach-pediatric-ocd-anxiety/. Re neurotransmitters, OCD is classic low serotonin so I’d have them do the amino acid questionnaire and a trial of tryptophan and then 5-HTP if that doesn’t help. And then I’d add in inositol if additional support is needed.
This is an unusual comment from a parent who is very new to integrative therapies: “treating with an amino acid is going to *feel* like she’s not doing enough as parent.” The parents I work with are thrilled to discover how powerful the amino acids are and how quickly they provide amazing results.
I would recommend carefully reviewing the precautions as with asthma you do have to watch tryptophan/5-HTP use.
Side effects of Inosital.
I have strange form of OCD ..looking for people names…neighbors, cashiers, bank tellers, old classmates ,tv shows…this started about 2 yrs ago, now getting worst, can’t use pharma drugs ..no tolerance,can not watch tv for almost 2yrs..names that appear, I have to write it down ,if I don’t ,I will wake up in middle of night and mind com pulses to recall it..if don’t remember, Panic attack,high blood pressure, pulse goes to 120 and can not sleep…I am 81 yr old…Iinsomnia is also an issue…SOS….thanx
Ghulam
I would look into low serotonin (tryptophan or 5-HTP and possibly inositol too) and possibly low GABA (GABA) and address these. High cortisol may also need to be considered.
Any supplement you recommed for anxiety and panic attacks,That have no side effects
Kim
There are many supplements and dietary approaches (don’t forget these: real food, quality animal protein, no gluten, no caffeine etc). I do a trial of GABA or tryptophan with everyone to start. We review the precautions of course https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/how-to-do-an-amino-acid-trial-for-anxiety/
It’s all very individualized of course.
Here is a link to my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution”- please be an informed user http://amzn.to/2jka4F1
I got sick recently with sore throat and stuffyness and anxiety came back strong. It is definitely ocd like anxiety. Any recommendations? I had a lot of sore throats growing up.
Caerllion
I’d look into strep/PANDAs, suspect effects of antibiotics or medications if any were used, and do a trial of tryptophan, GABA and possibly inositol. I do a trial with everyone and review the precautions https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/how-to-do-an-amino-acid-trial-for-anxiety/
Here is a link to my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution”- please be an informed user 🙂 http://amzn.to/2jka4F1
I was on 30 mg of Prozac for the last 20 years. I weaned down to 10mg very slowly over the last two years but when I lowered it under 10 mg I became extremely depressed so I reluctantly increased my dosage back to 10 mg. I am desperate to get off the prozac. I have been researching saint john’s wort, 5htp, rhodiola rosea and sam e, but everything I read says you can’t take these supplements while on SRI’s. Is there anything I can take while I’m still on 10mg of prozac to help me successfully withdraw from the prozac completely?
Mary
I find my clients do better when tapering off an antidepressant (which is often prescribed for anxiety and panic attacks) when their nutritional status is solid. Incorporating diet changes and adding amino acids and other nutrients first can result in a more successful taper with less side-effects. This would mean starting with the basics – eating real whole food, incorporating quality animal protein, eating to balance blood sugar, and removing gluten, caffeine and sugar. I write about my approach here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/taper-from-antidepressant-tryptophan-amino-acids/
The doctor is always kept informed and monitors for the possibility of serotonin syndrome.
Be sure to read my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” so you are an informed consumer (here it is on Amazon http://amzn.to/2kptFWm)
ps! I just posted a question to this blog.. a correction. The natural GP said that the tests were not reliable! cheers
Help! No one is listening!! I am writing to ask if you know of any “scholarly articles” about the link between Obsessive Compulsive Behaviour/ Autism and food sensitivities/ GI disturbances? Also if you know of any medical doctors in the UK who could help me advocate my sister’s case? (No one is listening to me and they won’t listen to a nutritionist either. Only a GP will be able to help prescribe what my sister needs.) My sister is a 52 year old with Down’s Syndrome. She moved out of our Mother’s home in the UK and into care 1 year ago. Since then she has deteriorated greatly and is now refusing to get out of bed or eat a balanced meal. Three years ago, we did the Biotek IGG IGA test on her and a CDSA Stool test. She had the highest intolerances for dairy, eggs, soya and gluten I have ever seen (I am a homeopath and natural therapist) (dairy was the worst one). She also had elevated Eosinophil X readings and a high growth of Ecoli (at the potentially pathinogenic level). Since moving, she has gone over to a high dairy based diet of yoghurt, icecream and strawberry mousse ( of her own demand). While at the same time she has run out of the supplements we had her on – probiotic, digestive enzyme, calming herbs, homeopathy and a multivitamin. She has become much more obsessive compulsive (a tendency she always had), violent when crossed, hysterical and inconsiderate of others needs. The care home put her on Zoloft without including us. They won’t listen to me when I say she needs digestive support and she needs to get off the dairy products. They even prescribed her with a fortifying protein shake based on dairy! I’ve tried appealing to two gastroenterologists with no support or avail. I involved one “natural GP” but he managed to give her social worker the impression that she could eat whatever she wanted and that the tests were not that reliable. ( we saw very good effect on her via diet and supplements).
I am now writing a letter to the care home, her GP (who doesn’t want to understand) and the involved psychiatrist asking for a best interests meeting but I need articles written by medical doctors and preferably a live Doctor to support and advocate this case. Otherwise I have no chance. Do you know of any good medical papers discussing the link between diet, food sensitivities, GI disturbances and OCD /autistic behaviour? Do you know of any GPs in the UK who would help? Do you know of any care homes for the learning disabled in the UK who advocates integrative diet based medicine? (I have been googling alot to try to find them myself without much luck or response.)
If the meeting doesn’t work we will have to take the case to the Court of Protection in the UK. I am Canadian living in Norway, by the way! Such a hassle for some diet changes and supplements!
In gratitude, Dale Ann Huxtable
Dale Ann
I’m sorry to hear what you are going through – it’s just awful! I don’t know of any GPs who can help or any care homes that advocate integrative diet based medicine in the UK but will reach out to colleagues to see if we can find someone.
I encourage you to search my blog as my articles are all referenced – here are a few on gluten:
Integrative Medicine Approach to Pediatric Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Anxiety (and the effects of gluten) https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/integrative-medicine-approach-pediatric-ocd-anxiety/
The Anxiety Summit – Gluten’s impact on the inflamed brain: reducing anxiety and depression https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/anxiety-summit-glutens-impact-inflamed-brain-reducing-anxiety-depression/ (any work by Dr. Tom O’Bryan is excellent)
My most recent one on diet – Paleo and grain free diets: anxiety and depression success stories https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/paleo-grain-free-anxiety-depression/
My book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” (here on Amazon http://amzn.to/2kptFWm) is heavily referenced
For autism resources I recommend Julie Matthews and her book “Nourishing Hope” and blog. There are some links to useful research in this blog https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/addressing-anxiety-autism/
Dale Ann
These doctors have been recommended to me: Dr.Anu Arasu, Dr. Seneviratne and Michael Ash
I don’t know any of them so do your due diligence to find out if they are the right choice for you and your sister. I wish you all the best and please do let us know the outcome and how she is doing
Dear Trudy
My three and half granddaughter started washing her hands compulsively. This is very recent. She is also more anxious now. Up to now she was very happy easy going child. I am very worried as we have OCD in the family.
Do you have any advice for me?
Dee
I’m sorry to hear about your granddaughter. I have had excellent results with tryptophan and inositol. I also look at gluten issues (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/integrative-medicine-approach-pediatric-ocd-anxiety/) and all the other possible biochemical factors that can cause anxiety and OCD (diet, low blood sugar, gut health, sugar, additives, low GABA, pyroluria etc). My book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” addresses it all (on Amazon here http://amzn.to/2kptFWm)
I noticed a comment earlier that there is danger in taking inositol if you plan to get pregnant in the future. Is there any danger for future pregnancies and if so, what danger?
Also, I went through a terrible post-partum period 3 years ago when I was in the third trimester of pregnancy and then after my daughter was born. I was incredibly anxious and developed OCD symptoms (intrusive thoughts, mainly). Through dietary changes and counseling I improved greatly after about a year. But for some reason that I can’t figure out, over the last few months, I’ve had a serious flair up of OCD and anxiety. Any ideas or advice would be greatly appreciated. I eat an organic, whole food diet. Gluten free.
One last thing – I tried taking an omega 3 fish oil (from a good brand) and it caused me to be super exhausted and sleepy. Have you ever heard of this side effect?
Thank you,
Sara
I found outdated link to your 2015 event, but I would like to stay in touch for any future events or consultation opps you are presenting.
Hi Trudy, I just finished watching the better belly seminar, with you and Summer Bock.
You were awesome. You mentioned nut flour and how it has copper in it. Is that only the flour, or nuts in general, as well as nut spread. I love almonds, and it is supposed to be so good for us. I always soak the nuts overnight, and rinse them well, before I dehydrate them. About gaba, the one that come in capsule form, 150 mg. and only gaba, what brand do you recommend? You to amazing work. SHINE ON,
Else
All nuts and nut spread too. The problem with nut flour is that a high amount is consumed at once when eating baked goods. Small amounts of soaked nuts are well tolerated by many and yes they have many health benefits (unless copper is really high or oxalates are an issue or there is a nut allergy).
Here are some of the GABA products I use with clients https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
Thanks for your kind words – glad you enjoyed my interview!
Dear Trudy,
I am a 34 year old woman – suffering from what most psychiatrists believe is severe Anxiety mixed with some OCD, ie thoughts of existence. Been suffering from this since 10 years old. I had an extreme rough childhood and there is mixed believes on wether my “imbalance” is due to childhood traumas or a genetic/physical condition. Long story short: I’ve been to 8 different authorised doctors in Denmark – all of them sweet and helpful but unfortunately with different answers. Been on everything from SSRI’s, Benzo’s to moodstabalizers and antipsychotics. Getting older and becoming a mother as well as moving to Dubai where the sun is shining has helped a lot and I am at a point where I manage most of the time on a very small dose of SSRI. However this is the time where I decided to not spend the rest of my life on medication and compromising with side effects that are harmful for my marriage and children. I am very firm on not suffering from my parents mistakes and live my life to the fullest and be happy with my amazing husband and kids – I have absolutely no reason to not be happy and enjoy life:) However the brain doesn’t always want the same as the heart. I’ve been looking into so many articles and researches about inositol, 5htp etc – only after discovering you and your blog I feel that there is someone knowledgeable and qualified to guide in terms of the right supplements. I took some of your questionnaires and found to be low in serotonin (which I already knew since SSRI is helping) However also low in Catecholamine – which I have no clue how to address. On top of that I very rare find any people with existence anxiety. I was hoping you had the time to take in new patients? And or could point me in the right direction to someone else or where to start. As mentioned I am living in Dubai and there is almost nothing or no one here of any help.
I really look forward to hearing from you and apologize in advance for a extremely long message.
Regards Linda
Hello, excuse my English. I’m braisliero and I’m using google translate. I looked at your blog and I really enjoyed your work. I’ve been playing since I was a kid. I used fluoxetine and sertaline. But I had many collateral effects in both. I was looking for natural alternatives and saw inositol on his blog. My toc is obessessive. And I also have tdha.
And I’ve been talking about tyrosine for tdha. Can I use inositol with Tyrosine? Thank you very much
Marcos
Glad you’re enjoying my work and we welcome our brasileiro /Brazilian (I think) reader! Since you mention tyrosine I think TDHA is ADHD (focus/attention/fatigue). I have used tyrosine together with inositol with clients. Keep in mind with obsessiveness, as well as inositol we also always look at low serotonin (and tryptophan and/or 5-HTP) and gluten issues (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/integrative-medicine-approach-pediatric-ocd-anxiety/). We must also consider infections like Lyme or the autoimmune condition called PANDAs (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/kid-not-crazy-panspandas-awareness-day-2017/) if symptoms persist.
DEar Trudy,
I have severe ocd, anxiety, depression, insomnia, ugh, can i take inostiol and 5 htp together?
Adam
Adam
I have many clients take both
Hi Trudy! I have been suffering with severe anxiety since May. When the symptoms appeared I immediately went to the doctor and she put me on Lexapro 0.5 mg and Lexapro 10 mg. After taking it for 10 days, I had symptoms which mimicked reactive hypoglycemia. I halted the meds. After doing research on taking a more natural approach for treating my anxiety, I identified with both low GABA and low Serotonin on your amino acid questionnaire. I will be seeing a functional medicine doctor in October. I had some tests ran on me so I can bring the results to my visit in October (such as the OATS test, etc.). Trying to be prepared and more educated on what’s going on with me. The question I have is in regards to L-Tryptophan. I have been taking 700 mg of Inositol with my 500 mg L-Tryptophan every morning. Then I follow with 4ml of Pure Tranquility (GABA drops). I noticed that my head starts feeling heavy for a bit once I take mainly the L-Tryptophan and Inositol. Then the heaviness subsides. Have any of your other patients experienced this feeling? And if so, what do you recommend?
Thank you SO much for your website info. I am so thankful, and will start applying what you suggest.
I am also buying your book for sure. May God abundantly bless you and your family for all you have done for others.
Hi Trudy! It has been a journey for myself and two daughters, who seem to have both contracted hashimoto’s with anxiety, and for one daughter, she has OCD, excessive hand washing with hot water and cheap tooth paste. Three to four years ago, I convinced the girls to clean up diet, to eliminate all grains, sugar and unhealthy fats, and to nourish gut flora. We supplemented with vitamin D, magnesium, high dose fish oil (EPA DHA = 5g) and high dose Vit. K complex.
Last year, we started 5 HTP, PS, and melatonin, GABA, and a few months ago, we adjusted out 5 HTP, PS and GABA, and take L-Tryptophan by Lidtke 1000mg (although not consistently). In the mornings, they are taking Inositol 75omg, L-selenomethionine (100 mcg), molybdenum, and then, with breakfast we still do the Mag, D, FO, K, and added L.G.S. by Priority One (beta carotene tested low) and Zinz w/Copper by BulletProof. The LDN was added a few months ago, and Nature-Throid for hormone treatment for autoimmune hypothyroidism (diagnosed over 10 years ago). The youngest daughter has reoccurring rectal bleeding and we are seeking another low dose iron IV for lower ferritin levels with our functional doctor. All of us are taking LDN, and I think that has started to lower antibodies in both daughters!
The zinc is problematic as it continues to cause nausea for both daughters with lower tested levels. I wish there was a zinc that would work for them, very problematic.
I am wondering if I should increase the dose of Inositol for the OCD although she seems stable and that includes body washing excessively and insomnia. She seem to have a bad reaction to turmeric, so I quickly discontinued, although she has random intolerance’s to dairy, and other foods eaten along with that trial of turmeric that are causing painful cramping so she eliminated those foods too, on a trial basis.
She feels like a victim, and is sometimes very determined and difficult to convince as she has quite a mine of her own. On another note, we are taking Lomatium (Barlow herbals) and some other tinctures in the last few months, and may continue with these for a few more months, it is just that there wasn’t any infection or virus or genetic (via 23andme) that has expressed itself in their histories, just common colds, sinus, flu’s etc. not really anything other than whatever the Smith’s or Jones had so to speak. I can’t explain how they contracted Hashimoto’s, but I am not going to be satisfied until those antibodies are well managed, and hopefully her OCD will subside, and we can get down to determining how best to address the bleeding root cause(s). I am thankful for all of your continued efforts in working with the amino acids, and to getting the word out on how to live and stay healthy.
Dawn
Congrats on all the dietary changes! I encourage you to check our Izabella’s book and work on Hashmimoto’s as there are other aspects other than diet to consider https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/hashimotos-protocol-izabella-wentz/
For OCD I’ll increase tryptophan until we don’t see any added benefits and will use up to 18g of inositol (starting low and increasing slowly). With OCD we also need to consider PANDAs/PANS and infections like strep and others (which may also be driving autoimmunity)
I’ve just tapered off Effexor, and SNRI. I tapered very slowly (8 months) but I’m still experiencing withdrawal effects (nausea and dizziness). I’m wondering if you’ve had any luck using these supplements to treat SNRI withdrawals?
SD
Yes I’ve had success with these nutrients and others, plus using my nutritional support plan as it’s always more than only the supplements
My dr wants to put me in Wellbutrin for anxiety what do you think of this?
Jean
I encourage my clients to look for nutritional solutions for their anxiety and address the root cause rather then medicate. I encourage you to read my book The Antiaxiety Food Solution” and articles here on the blog ” and implement what you learn!
Hi Trudy!
Thanks for your amazing help… I have been suffering with severe intrusive thoughts/OCD for 9 months now. Thoughts about my relationship, religion, and sexual identity constantly pop in my head. They give me extreme anxiety, fear, and panic. It’s hard to function this way. Unfortunately, I was misdiagnosed and was given bipolar medication for most of this time. It did not work for obvious reasons. But I’ve decided to take matters into my own hands and beat this without meds.
I quit dairy, gluten, and sugar about 2 months ago. I do still eat other grains and carbs like rice, quinoa, and sweet potato. I also eat lots of fruit. Should I quit the other grains and fruit? Here is my current supplement regiment
Moringa – 2x daily (supplies serotonin) – 1 month
5 HTP – I have worked my way up to 150 mg in just 1.5 weeks.
B6 – 50mg 2x daily (I am on day one)
Fish Oil – 1,000 mg 1x daily (I am on day one)
Magnesium and Zinc supplements
Probiotics – 50 billion
l-Glutamine – 2g 2x daily
Lions Mane Mushroom – 2g 1x daily
Essentail Oils like Frankincense and Geranium
Vitamin D
I did not take a serotonin test, amino acid test, or a test to see what vitamins I’m lacking before I started this. It was all based on research, such as yours, across the net. Is this okay?
How long should I give the 5-HTP to know if it’s helping? What is the max dose to stop at, 300mg? I have worked my way up to 150mg in about a week and a half. I feel the same at the moment. But It takes how long to see improvement? Is this okay to take with Moringa?
Once I figure out how well 5HTP is helping, I saw I can add inositol with 2g 2x daily. How fast can I titrate up to 18g? And how long should it take to see effects if it’s helping?
Other supplements I’ve read that can help OCD are Taurine, L-theanine, GABA, Ashwaganda, and N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Are these okay to add or try if the above does not work or only partially works? Should I add them one at a time? If so for how long? Any other supplements? Thanks!
Andy
Good for you for quitting dairy, gluten and sugar! I can’t provide specifics via the blog but can share this – for some people all grains are an issue, a lot of fruit = a lot of sugar, I do one new supplement at a time with my clients, I use the trial and titration method with the amino acids, my clients notice an improvement with the amino acids on day 1 if it’s the right one and correct amount, some people do better on tryptophan vs 5-HTP and I titrate inositol over a few weeks.
Thank you so much Trudy! You Rock!! Last question, 5-HTP increases serotnin, but does it lower dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine? Should something else be taken with 5-HTP to combat this? Thanks!
Hey, I just started taking moringa and im yet to see the benefits however I have to recommend NAC. I’ve been taking it for a week and a half and I’ve noticed some great results with my OCD. I think it helps get rid of oxidative stress from the brain that may have been caused by OCD and the constant stress. However you are taking quite a lot of supplements so i don’t know if it’s safe to mix NAC with all of that. Maybe speak to a doctor about it or naturopath. You don’t want to put too much strain on your liver or cause some accidental damage. I read natural supplement can cause this. Wish you all the best on your healing journey. May God Almighty help you
Hi, trudy i suffer from anxiety depression and ocd i had some test done plasma zinc 80 ug/dl whole blood histamine 73 ng/ml cerulosplasmin 26.4 mg/dl cooper,serum 118 ug/dl and kryptopyrrole14.44 mcg/dl what supplements would you recommend should i take.
David
I suggest working with the doctor who ordered the tests as I can offer specific advice via my blog. I also use the amino acid questionnaire and do trials of the amino acids
I used inositol for my son who had OCD. It was one of the first things I tried and I didn’t yet know that some things can make things worse. He was terribly angry and irritable very often which was quite uncharacteristic off him. I didn’t realized what might have caused it but after stopping the inositol things improved greatly. I also discovered things to make me believe he has high serotonin. As a result, things that are calming to others irritate him. I’ve had bad results with l-theanine and 5-HTP as well. In fact, the 5-HTP discovery was an accident. He was no longer on the inositol. He was getting very irritated and I tried to figure out what could be different. I finally realized I changed brands I’d melatonin and this one included 5-HTP.
It’s frustrating that it’s easier to find things that make it worse than make it better.
Just wanted to post my results for your research.
Scott
Thanks for posting here too and the trial and error approach which is often how things go. I’m sharing the link to the collagen blog for folks to see our discussion there https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/collagen-gelatin-lower-serotonin-increase-anxiety-depression/
Saffron oil and cbd oil combo worked for me!
Adam
What is saffron oil? Where do you get that? I know the herb saffron has been mentioned in studies regarding OCD but I never heard of saffron oil.
Hi Adam, my brother and I seem to have the same symptoms that you mentioned (rumination, Pure OCD, insomnia, depression, high anxiety). Can you please elaborate on which brand of saffron oil and CBD that you are taking as well as the doses? I found it interesting that we both share the same symptoms.
Congratulations Adam! I know from your previous posts things were pretty bad for you. Can you give me details about how much CBD and from you took and how often? Any particular brands? Was the CBD a tincture or capsule is something? How long did you take it before you started to notice a difference? Are you still taking it? And do you know if your serotonin was high or low?
Don’t mean to bombard you with questions. Just so glad to see info from someone who found positive results.
Thank you fire sharing!
Does the brand of inositol matter? I’m ordering online and just wanted to know if brands really matters or not. Homeschooling mom of five who had been diagnosed with postpartum OCD and I’ve been having a few more downs than ups lately. Doing well though, just want to get ahead of anything before it gets unmanageable. Love this site and am so thankful it’s still here after visiting it almost exactly 5 years ago! ♥️
Alex
Thanks for the kind words! I always recommend professional grade inositol and I really like the DFH Inositol powder because it’s easy to use higher doses if needed (rather than swallowing a bunch of capsules). This can be purchased from my online supplement store – https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
I typically have clients support serotonin with tryptophan or 5-HTP first and then we add inositol. Also with postpartum OCD/anxiety/depression we always need to consider the zinc/copper balance. Dr William Walsh writes about this and we discussed it in our interview on one of the anxiety summits https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/anxiety-depression-methylation-pyrrole-copper-zinc-imbalance/
Hi Trudy,
I’ve had incredible results with Inositol for managing anxiety and sleep. I was really quite blown away. But then I read that inositol can lower testosterone levels. I am approaching menopause with low testosterone levels already. Wondering if this might be a problem for me? Would you recommend I experiment with Glycine as an alternative to Inositol to avoid possible dips in testosterone?
Marni
So glad to hear about your wonderful results with inositol for managing anxiety and sleep. Research with PCOS patients who have very high testosterone levels does show this testosterone lowering effect. I am not aware of issue outside of PCOS and have yet to see it be an issue. But if someone knows for sure they have low testosterone levels best would be to monitor levels with testing (when other hormone testing is being done). Experimentation with tryptophan or 5-HTP would be an option, also GABA and glycine.
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.
Hi Trudy,
Just a quick message to say a very big thank you for all the advice and time that you give to help people from all over the world.
Elle
Thanks for the lovely message!