V2. Old label, original formulation (2 years ago?): Phospholylated Serine on the front
V3. New label, new formulation (5 months ago): Phosphatidylserine on the front
Last month I wrote a blog called Tryptophan and melatonin make a big difference but why do I still wake at 4am? and included a section about high night-time cortisol (measured with an adrenal salivary test) also being a factor with insomnia and waking in the night, often with anxiety. I then shared my top product for lowing high cortisol, Interplexus Seriphos, and had a number of readers (very kindly) inform me that Seriphos has been reformulated. One person shared this:
In your blog you recommend Interplexus Seriphos for those who have a high cortisol problem. What you may not know is that Interplexus changed its proprietary formula sometime March/April 2016 to a form which no longer works for many of us.
This is also true for me as I have been taking the new formula and the sleep issues have returned: waking at 2 am and not being able to go back to sleep. I have asked my functional medicine doctor and called Interplexus but they cannot help. Since you are an expert in such matters, PLEASE, help find another product like the old Seriphos (prior to March 2016) so that all of us who were happy with the old product can get back to the business of sleeping through the night.
Someone else shared this:
I was using the phosphorylated serine found in Interplexus Seriphos from November 2015 until present. For the first 6 months it was like a miracle pill calming me and leaving me feel normal, not like Niagara Falls was rushing through my veins.
Sometime in the spring 2016 I noticed the Seriphos was not working and read the reviews on Amazon that Interplexus had changed the formula.
I was not aware that the formulation had changed
I was not aware that the formulation had changed and love that I get to learn from my community too – thank you for letting me know!
I had not seen any new clients since just before the Anxiety Summit in June and my existing clients who are using the original Seriphos have enough stock to not have noticed the change or brought it to my attention.
It’s such a pity it has been reformulated because it’s been so powerful for lowering high cortisol and quickly when 1-3 x Seriphos (the original) are taken about 2-3 hours before the high cortisol. I first learned about this phosphorylated serine product when working with Julia Ross and continued to use it very successfully in my practice.
As you can see from the feedback above it truly was a lifesaver for these two women and for so many individuals.
I’m going to share what I have discovered thus far
I like to share what I know works but so many of you are desperately seeking a solution right now. I promised to look into what has happened so I’m going to share what I have discovered thus far.
It’s always helpful to learn from feedback from others (both positive and negative) so I read through Steve Gibson’s negative review on Amazon and found the very long thread of comments under this.
I also reached out to my colleagues to ask what they are now using:
- some had not ever used Seriphos
- some were also not aware it had changed (the old and new labels are deceptively similar)
- some had used phosphatidyl serine and found Seriphos to be more effective
- and many have had/do have success with phosphatidyl serine.
I also contacted Interplexus and was told there are no plans to go bring back the original formulation and they very nicely communicated that they’re sorry and feel they’ve done their best in communicating that it’s a new product.
As you can see from the images above the bottles, I tend to disagree and find it confusing:
V1. The very old bottle (many years ago): Phospholylated Serine on the front
V2. Old label, original formulation (2 years ago?): Phospholylated Serine on the front
V3. New label, new formulation (5 months ago): Phosphatidylserine on the front
So what are your options instead of Seriphos?
It’s going to be a good 3 months before I can definitively give you feedback so these are my suggestions right now since it’s too soon to know for sure. These are based on what I already know, some common sense, some of what we know from the research, feedback from colleagues, and feedback from real people who have been searching for alternatives and trying various combinations:
- Enerphos by T.E. Neesby
- It is advertised to be same formula as the original Seriphos
- Julia Ross recommends this as a replacement
- One practitioner shared that she has had similar results with this product.
- I’ve also had feedback from colleagues saying it works half as well. Perhaps doubling the dose would be more effective?
- Swanson 300mg (the oil-based) triple-strength phosphatidyl serine
- Someone on the above Amazon thread shared that this has worked when taken together with ox bile and lipase.
- Cortisol Manager by Integrative Therapeutics (1 capsule contains 50mg phosphatidyl serine, theanine and other ingredients)
- A colleague shared this: “Cortisol Manager can be dosed up to 2-3 tablets per day and used with or without additional phosphatidyl serine which can easily go as high as 600 mg.” He has seen salivary cortisol levels shift with this approach and shared: “Interestingly, I never saw those changes with Seriphos despite being a heavy user between 2009 and 2011 so I thought it was just hype.”
- Feedback from someone on my blog: “Cortisol Manager was too stimulating with the Ashwagandha”
- Feedback from a practitioner who first used Cortisol Manager personally and then switched to Seriphos at my recommendation: “Cortisol Manager did nothing for me. I dosed it high enough and took it for a month – but I felt nothing. Seriphos on the other hand, worked the same night, within an hour or two.”
- Designs for Health PS 150 – Phosphatidylserine 150 mg: non-soy, sunflower sourced phosphatidyl serine with one capsule serving of 150mg
- Someone shared this on Amazon: “We have equally good results with phosphatidyl serine, but the dose usually needs to be in the 300-500mg range, to equate to what 1 or 2 Seriphos capsules could do.” I don’t know which brand they use used.
- Feedback from a colleague: “We started using PS150 from DFH and love it.” He often uses this in conjunction with another Designs for Health product called Catecholacalm.
- Phosphatidyl Serine Powder 50 gms: One quarter teaspoon provides Phosphatidyl Serine 200 mg in a powder form.
- This one is soy-derived (GMO-free) but may be easier to use to get higher doses
- Lactium, also known as hydrolyzed casein
- Biotics Research De-stress is a product I use with clients with good results. It’s calming and based on the research it also lowers high cortisol
- There is very promising research on essential oils lowering cortisol levels – such as bergamot and I wonder if this approach could be incorporated too?
I know the original Seriphos was very affordable and very effective for the cost. Using higher amounts of the above products and various combinations is likely to be much more expensive but at least it’s an option to provide relief until we find a longer term solution or until a Seriphos-type product becomes available.
Address all the possible underlying causes of high cortisol
We also don’t want to lose sight of why long-term use of Seriphos is needed and be sure to also focus on addressing all the possible underlying causes of high cortisol: stress, parasites, infections and inflammation, gluten sensitivity and other food sensitivities, low calorie eating, medication side-effects etc.
Please share what helps
If you’ve used Seriphos in the past and have found a solution please let us know.
If you are looking for an alternative to Seriphos please share this list with your practitioner in case they are not aware the formulation has changed. And have them help you find the right combination for your particular needs. Please come back and share what helps so we can all benefit.
If you are a practitioner and have your favorite product or combination please share what is working for your clients/patients.
Update November 18, 2016: I emailed Interplexus asking if they will be bringing back the original Seriphos formula and received this message from them:
Yes, the information is correct we will be returning the previous formula of Seriphos and are expecting to have it late November, unfortunately we do not have a completion date as of yet so the estimated time frame is not a guarantee. It will be the same formula as before and we will also manufacture a Phosphatidylserine standalone product in the future. If you have further questions or concerns feel free to contact, and you’re also welcome to check on the status of Seriphos periodically.
Update January 20, 2017:
The original Seriphos formula is back. This blog post has additional information – Seriphos Original Formula is back: the best product for anxiety and insomnia caused by high cortisol
Trudy, in regard to a replacement for Seriphos, I have been using “Pro Cortisol Balance” by Nutri West for years with good results. Chewable tablets: 1 tablet for mild condition, 2 tablets for higher stress. This can be purchased online with Pure Formulas or Amazon.
Dawn
Thanks so much for sharing about your success with Nutriwest Pro Cortisol Balance. It’s new to me. I’m sharing a link (http://www.nutri-westfl.com/pro-cortisolbalance.aspx) and listing the ingredients for others to read – Phosphatidyl Serine (supplying active phosphatides: Cephalin (Phosphatidylethanolamine) and Phosphoinsitides) 50mg, DMAE Bitartrate 50mg, Phosphatidyl Choline (from 48mg of Lecithin) 22mg. In a base of Beet Root Juice, Stevia, Maltodextrin, natural orange flavor.
I’d love to hear if you’ve had saliva cortisol testing done and seen it shift from high to low using this?
My goal is to help help my clients find the root cause of high cortisol and address this, using the PS to reduce and alleviate symptoms while addressing the reason it’s high to start with. You say you’ve used it for years with good results but I have to wonder why someone would need long-term support for high cortisol: SRRI or benzo use? parasites? ongoing excessive stress? gluten issues? caffeine use?
I do want to just say to be cautious buying this and other products from Amazon and other non-approved sites – Nutriwest has this caution on their site http://www.nutriwest.com/site_warning
Trudy,
I did have saliva testing done prior to using this product and again after 6 months with my cortisol levels dropping. The reason I use this product for so long is because I have not been able to overcome my adrenal fatigue issues. My body does not respond to the bio identical DHEA that my practitioner prescribed, so I am left with glandulars and other supplements. I have been on benzo sleeping pills for 12 years – could that be the cause of my adrenal fatigue? I am weaning off right now and taking the Litdke Tryptophan and GABA to get to sleep. I also have excessive food allergies and my diet is very narrow as a result. Also have sinus infections for the past 2 years, even though I have never had sinus issues during my entire life previously. Any advice you have for me would be appreciated!
Dawn
Thanks for the feedback. It’s possible the benzodiazepines are a factor – here is one paper: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24715565. The food allergies and sinus issues are likely related to the adrenal issues. I like to support the adrenals with a good B complex, extra pantothenic acid, vitamin C and rhodiola
Hi, before I ever started readying Trudy’s Blogs on Stress, I have been using Dr. Daniel Amen’s Formulas for stress, sleep, and focus. I have used the PS formula that he has with great results, No Soy,ect.
The Amen Clinic website uses great formulas, you should check them out.
Cheryl
Thanks for sharing. May I ask what the name of the PS product is? I’d love to hear if you’ve had saliva cortisol testing done and seen it shift from high to low using this product you mention?
Hello
Trudy, thanks for your reply…I would advise anyone who is interested in looking up Dr. Daniel Amen’s Website,
http://www.brainmdhealth.com…I am taking 150mg of the PS (called NeuroPS derived from Sunflower Lecitin. Dr. Amen has other items for stress, Focus, Attention, Mood ect. He has many years of research as a Neurologist and works in tandem with a Clinical Pharm. D. to formulate these working combinations.
No, I have not have any saliva, or serum cortisol testing yet. I kind of know by my body and how I feel. Sometimes when I do get stressed, my whole body aches, and I find it hard to get up out of a chair and walk, it is painful and slow. This happens with stress of a weather change from warm to cold, ect. I have fibromyalgia I think, and arthritis in my hips…One hip was already replaced 3 yrs ago. However, I have had much relief with the suppliments for stress, and sleep, GABA, 5HTP, and Melatonin. I do not know where my mind would be without this combination. I can get 9 hrs. of sleep a night and can titrate the combinations and amounts. I try to take as little as possible. Thanks
Wonderful – thanks for sharing! So glad to hear all this is helping so much
I want to hear what works for people and the most affordable solutions.
Thanks
Relora works for me.
Mary
Thanks for sharing! May I ask how long you’ve been using this and how much helps? Does it help with anxiety as well as lowering high cortisol? And I’d love to hear if you’ve had saliva cortisol testing done and seen it shift from high to in range using this?
Sharing this for other readers: Relora is a proprietray blend of Magnolia (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron (Phellodendron amurense) bark.
Trudy
This is very sad news for us high cort. people! As for Interplexus, they will probably go out of business in the PS area, cuz when the people who have been “duped” into using the new product find out it doesn’t work, people wont rebuy it and will seek other products. Too bad another manufacturer of supplements doesn’t take this on. With all the stress people are having these days, you would think this would be worth the effort to develop a product like original Seriphos. Thank you, girl, for all your concern and thoroughness in this matter and being so kind to share it with us.
Kaye
You’re most welcome. It’s unfortunate that Interplexus has done this but we have other options. What do you think of the options listed in the blog? and the feedback others have posted here – very promising!
I’ll be doing further reading and will do a follow-up blog to gather new info as I learn more.
Please come back and share what you try and if it helps you so we can all benefit
The only substitute is Enerphos by Neesby-I bought it in the US (not sure if it’s available elsewhere) and it works as well as the old Seriphos
Joanna
Thanks for sharing – good to hear you have good results. May I ask – do you use this personally or with clients/patients? I ask because as mentioned above “I’ve also had feedback from colleagues saying it works half as well” as Seriphos
I used it myself to help with more restful sleep and it worked as well as Seriphos for me. But everyone is different and perhaps there are reasons why it may not work as well for others. In some cases it may be psychological perhaps? I.e people are stressed that alternatives won’t work as well as the original Seriphos, they are stressed about having to deal with high cortisol, finding something else to alleviate their suffering and the stress about this in itself adds to the cortisol burden which may necessitate a higher dose?
How do u think the dosing is between Seriphos and Enerphos? I see it takes two pills to get the dose on the label but I can’t tell if they have the same ingredients and I don’t know how may Enerphos it takes to get to one Seriphos.
Jules
I can’t comment on this as I have not had clients use Enerphos. I have had feedback that it doesn’t work as well as Seriphos.
Enerphos worked for me but I had to take 2 of them to get the effect of 1seriphos. hope this helps.
Thanks for letting us know! Glad it worked for you
I order my Seriphos from Amazon and, as accurate with your report, I have been getting the new stuff since March. This last bottle, however, was in an old bottle, lot # 1573100, Manuf. date 6/15. After reading your blog I suspect it is a fluke, someone found a batch of “old” bottles and I got “lucky”. I was disturbed that they didn’t change the label much. Seems kinda sneaky. Am happy to have the old one, again, but will start checking out some of the recommended brands. I am fairly limited in types because of sensitivities.
Thanks for keeping us posted on stuff like this. I always enjoy reading your blog.
Rita
Rita
Wow you got lucky! And yes on the label confusion.
Thanks for the feedback and please keep us posted
I’ve been trying to come off tricyclics antidepressants for many years. I’ve read your book and have tried gaba but not much success. I bought some Phosphitidyl serine and have taken one capsule in the mornings but I’m feeling very stressed and my pulse has been raised. I’m wondering whether it has nullified my antidepressant? Just thought I’d let folks know what happened to me as a caution and will stop taking it.
Thanks for all your great work
Lesley
Thanks for sharing. Anyone can react to any nutrient and it sounds like that product or the dose was too much for you.
I would love to hear about your results for a seriphos substitute, when they come in.
Beth
These are the Seriphos substitutes – they are listed here as options to try.
Trudy, I hope this doesn’t get posted twice! My computer just played a trick and I lost this page! Urr.. So in case it didn’t get put on here, heres the gist of my new story!
I just recd. an email from Amazon thread on Seriphos. Someone named ASIS called Interplexus (800-875-0511) and the rep. told them they are bringing back the original formula by Dec. 2016! And they have found a better source of phosphlyrated (sp?) serine ( the right stuff not new stuff). The entry was dated 10-11-2016 at around 11oclock.
Hope this happens if so this is a good day!!!! 🙂 Luv, K
Kaye
Thanks for the update – good to know! In the meantime, as you go thru some of the options covered in this blog please let me know if you find something comparable to the Seriphos. I just heard on facebook that a practitioner is seeing more consistent results with Enerphos. The CBD from hemp seems a good option too.
I’m also gathering info on essential oils and curcumin for lowering cortsiol and will share more
My doctor has me taking Calm CP by NeuroScience. It seems to help bring my cortisol levels down. I need 2 or 3 at night depending on how my day went.
Celeste
Thanks for sharing and glad to hear you have something that’s helping. Would you mind sharing if you can actually feel the impacts? Many people report less of an adrenaline surge when using Seriphos.
For other readers: this product contains a proprietary blend of Lagerstroemia speciosa (Banaba) Leaf extract (standardized to 2% corosolic acid), SerinAid 50P (phosphatidylserine enriched soy lecithin), Glycine, and Taurine. It’s interesting to me since Lagerstroemia speciosa (Banaba) Leaf extract is typically used for lowering blood sugar/diabetes/weight-loss https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2176148/
Hi,
Since I have been taking the Calm CP at night, it seems to help me sleep. when I do wake up in the middle of the night, (I usually need to go to the bathroom,) I notice that I can fall back to asleep faster. If I do get a sudden waking moment in the middle of the night, I take one capsule and it does seem to help calm me down so I can get back to sleep. I also have a spoonful of nut butter in the middle of the night to help my low blood sugar when it drops. During my nighttime awakenings, I also take my BP to see where I am. It can spike, or my heart rate is fast. If this is the case, I do EFT, vagus nerve exercises, or right shoulder collar bone massaging and deep breathing to help calm things down. I have issues with my HPA
axis, (adrenal fatigue), CIRS, Lyme with co-infections, osteomyelitis of the jaw, (I recently had 2 surgeries to remove the cavitations and diseased
bone along with a tooth, gut issues, MTHFR, the genetic mold gene which about 1/4 of the population have, and recently expelled several different
parasites. So I do have many issues to cope with at this time. Recover has been very slow. Also, the Fall seems to be the worst time of the year for me due to the change in weather, dying decomposing leaves and damp cooler weather. I live in NorthernVirginia where there is high humidity and the elevation is on 358′. We will be moving South where the elevation is higher (about 965 +) and humidity slightly lower, which should help with my health issues. I hope that this will clarify my issues and usage of the Calm CP.
Hi Trudy, I have Low Cortisol (saliva test and serum) in the morning, afternoon, and Highest level is at night time.
I have found taking Gaba, 5HTP, and Calcium (Algae type) and Magnesium (Nitrite type) along with Melatonin 5 mg work best for me to keep me asleep thru the night and get back to sleep soon after I use the rest room. I am treated for Thyroid issues that are now stabilized after I have reached full Menopause. I take T3 and T4 so as not to have depression, and night sweats. I found out that having a good full nights sleep consistently is the best medicine that one can get. I am also interested in the PS products too. I find that 5 HTP does indeed decrease the frequency and intensity of my Migraine Head aches. I am not really wanting to take Gaba all the time as I find a side effect of constipation. The other day I happened to drink a Hemp drink at Whole Foods, not sweet and delicious passion fruit, I noticed that I did not have any intense joint or arthritis pain that night. So the next day I drank one Hemp drink again, and I had a refreshing sleep, and decreased joint pain. I take a Fish Oil Capsule daily, Can you comment on this Hemp Drink, as it had a lot of vegetarian-type Omega’s in it, that could be what I really need. I notice that I get a “Pain Rebound” in my arthritis and Leg Pains when I do not take Gaba on a regular basis. Any comments. I think I have Fibromyalgia, and I want to know more about what works, any one can comment, or Trudy, you can as well. Thanks CK
I’m not sure about the hemp drink – it’s a source or protein and healthy fats.
Both 5-HTP and tryptophan are often helpful for fibromyalgia
I assume you are gluten-free too?
I have tried taking 500 mg of tryptophan for sleep. If I take it 3 nights in a row, it seems to make me very crabby. Too much or do I need something else. Also have tried 5htp for anxiety, and it made it worse. Any ideas? Thank you for any help.
Hello Trudy,
I have been taking DFH phosphatidyl serine 600 mg and also Cortisol Manager for almost three months and my symptoms remain. I am only getting 2 hrs of sleep at best and some nights I don’t really sleep at all. My saliva cortisol was very high and I have yet to be retested. Just this week one of my doctors ( not the one who has me taking the PS) looked up side effects of PS and said it can cause insomnia. Have you ever heard of this before? I don’t know the website that he read that on. Also, do you think it is worth trying the Enerphos?
Margaret
Oh dear -2 hours of sleep! sorry to hear! A few people find PS too stimulating and stop if sleep is worse after starting it (or anything for that matter). Some people find Cortisol Manager stimulating due to the ashwagandha. Doing a higher amount of DFH PS and/or Enerphos would be my choice.
I’d also want to deal with the high cortisol – stress, gluten, SIBO, parasites etc
Hello,
I am also a regular user of Seriphos for high cortisol levels. It has gone off the shelves again and when I called Interplexus they informed me that they are going back to the original formula! They said should be back in about 4-6 weeks, which was about two weeks ago.
I am glad to hear about other options though to tide me over, as I ran out of my Seriphos. Thanks for this blog.
Yes I have confirmed this with them
Hell0, I just started taking Curcurmin formula one capsule per day, daily for about 5 days now for help with my arthritis, and I am pleased…It is working and seems to be alleviating my pain and the stiffness in my legs.
It is from the Amen Clinic, there was 30% off the new formulated brand, so I gave it a shot. I am very impressed that I do not have to take any type of NSAID every 2 to 3 days, as It was bothering my stomach a great deal. I take one Fish Oil (Organic Merc. Free from New Chapter) and a Probiotics as well with great results.
2 Fish Oil caps are too much for my digestive system and did not relieve the pain as much as adding the Curcurmin to my daily diet.
I also take Time released Melatonin that works for me as well. I take the HTP Occassionally. The HTP really works for me when I feel a Migraine Headache starting, or I am really tired and have had or will have a stress filled day.
I in the past tend to have Low Cortisol (saliva test and blood) in the morning and day time, at 11PM it rises…So if I stay up watching TV, I love the night time comedy shows,PBS I can not over do it. I take the Melatonin, and no problem…I have not has a New Check on my AM/PM/ Late Night Cortisol in a while, but I think , and feel it has improved, along with more thyroid Balancing and not that I have been in Menopause for over 2 yrs. My Thyroid Medications are a dose of T3 and T4 in the Morning.
I have noticed less afternoon fatigue (I have adrneal fatigue).
I feel it is the sleep Regulation that I have when I take the Melatonin, HTP Ca/Mg. and sometimes gabba, .
Cheers! Happy Autumn, Early dark, Late Morning Dark.
Just sharing this blog update in case you missed it
Update November 18, 2017: I emailed Interplexus asking if they will be bringing back the original Seriphos formula and received this message from them:
“Yes, the information is correct we will be returning the previous formula of Seriphos and are expecting to have it late November, unfortunately we do not have a completion date as of yet so the estimated time frame is not a guarantee. It will be the same formula as before and we will also manufacture a Phosphatidylserine standalone product in the future. If you have further questions or concerns feel free to contact, and you’re also welcome to check on the status of Seriphos periodically.”
I have been using Seriphos (old formula) and new formula now for several years. My cortisol levels of bottom of range AM, normal, slightly high late afternoon, and over range nighttime haven’t ever changed. I just can’t seem to figure this out. No doctor can help regardless of the amount I pay. I’ve tried all the normally recommended herbs: licorice in morning, dr Wilsons rebuilder in AM, calming herbs in afternoon and evening. Herbatonin a bioidentical melatonin. All of this and I can’t sleep thru the night. I only get a few hours sleep. Snack before bed etc. everything anyone has ever recommended, I do it! I’m glad they are going back to old formula, but honestly it doesn’t seem to make a difference. Currently, I take 2 around 3 pm and then 1 around 8 pm to try and stop me from waking at 1-3 in the morning. I’ve tried different amounts of Seriphos and can’t seem to come up with the right amount at the right time. I’m so frustrated! Anyone have any ideas of what I’m doing wrong. Interplexis said Seriphos won’t overly lower cortisol and can even raise it in the morning. I’ve never tried this in the morning because I thought this was to lower cortisol only. I’ve never heard anyone say they use this to raise cortisol.
Jules
If sleep issues are not due to high cortisol (although that does seem to be a factor and the root cause should be found and addressed) then I’d investigate low serotonin (https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/tryptophan-melatonin-work-but-still-wake-up-at-4am/) and low GABA, parasites and SIBO. Also EMFs may be a factor.
Of course the caffeine, sugar and gluten has to go too.
Current or prior use of benzodiazepines or SSRIs may play a role too. Also fluoroquinolone antibiotics may be a factor.
I had read The Mood Cure several years ago and tried Tryptophan but was not using the Lidtke brand. It can’t be any of the other issues you mentioned(gluten, sugar, parasites etc). So, I ordered it and tried the complete formula last night when I woke at 3 am. It gave me the oddest sensation in my head/brain and I can’t describe it. Needless to say, I was awake the rest of the night. This sensation turned into a killer headache around 5 am. Does this mean it is too strong for me? Or other? I was thinking I needed to try their regular Tryptophan instead. One of the reviews on Amazon for the Complete version said they had this same issue but were fine with the regular Lidtke Tryptophan. What do you think?
Hi Jules, interesting you should say that. I can’t take tryptophan at all, it makes me angry and aggressive – I’ve experimented with it extensively using both Lidtke’s ‘Complete’ and ‘Sleep & Mood’ products. Even if I take just one capsule of the Lidtke ‘Sleep & Mood’ when waking in the early hours of the morning, it doesn’t help me get back to sleep and leaves me enraged and irritable for most of the day ahead… I think it has something to do with my COMT & MAOA SNP’s where I don’t break down serotonin very well and hence there’s a build up of too much serotonin as a result of taking the tryptophan. We are all uniquely different and respond as such. N = 1 and all that jazz… 🙂
Drew
I have clients with COMT and MOAO SNPs do fine on tryptophan (and I do personally too). I wonder if just a dab/pinch may help – what you describe sounds like too much and a reverse effect. I can’t recall if you ever did this
Jules
This blog covers this – be sure to read the comments too https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/tryptophan-500mg-or-tryptophan-complete-lidtke/
I always start with tryptophan only product from Lidtke and always do a trial to find the right dose. Some people need less. How much did you use?
Thanks for this, perhaps I’m a ‘pixie duster’ Trudy? 🙂 I should try this, I haven’t ever before, the minimum I took was one cap… 🙂
Drew
Some people are pixie dusters for some nutrients and not others – always worth doing a trial.
Kaye just posted on another thread about progesterone and mentioned you by name (isn’t she so sweet!?) so sharing this discussion here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/hormone-secret-progesterone-for-anxiety/ Men often need progesterone which is closely connected to GABA.
Thanks Trudy for letting me know about Kaye’s comment, yes how very sweet of her, that means a lot. I will explore the progesterone angle… Better night last night, still off the NADH + CoQ10, too early to draw any conclusions but will keep you posted. It’s hit and miss, some nights good, some not. Did a full on gym workout yesterday morning so that may have helped the better sleep. 🙂
I tried the tryptophan again just to see if I had the same sensation since I do have several low serotonin symptoms. I did not have the same funny feeling in my head, so I used a higher dose (1000mg) the next night when I woke up at 1-3 am. 1000mg did nothing. Don’t know if I should go to 1500mg at this time or just try moving the dose to 4 pm in afternoon or both. I think I’m gonna dump the bioidentical melatonin as it is so expensive and try a time release one and see if that helps me.
Jules
I like to have my clients use tryptophan MA and evening and then at night if needed.
Jules,
Have you ever looked at a Chinese Body Clock “map”? It could be that the coordinating organ is not functioning properly. Check the time you usually wake up and make the connection with the organ. Maybe supporting that organ can help.
Good luck!
Yeah, I’ve tried taking it MA and evening and I don’t get that funny feeling in my head any more but I get a killer headache. I be tried Lidtke complete 500 mg and the regular 250 mg capsules but it always causes a headache. I guess I just can’t take it.
Enerphos ISNT the same formulation as old seriphos. Old serriphos had PHOSPHORYLATED serine in it. Enerphos just hs some minerals in it. The new seriphos has phosphatidyl serine in it.
Israel
Correct – they are all very different but some report that Enerphos helps, some say it doesn’t.
Israel
Just making sure you have seen the updates on the Original Forumula Seriphos – it’s back and there is new blog post here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/seriphos-original-formula-anxiety-insomnia-cortisol/ (it went out via my weekly newsletter today too)
I was taking Cortisol manager which helped somewhat. My Natuopath changed me to Seriphos recently and that helped much more. However, now i read that the formula has been very recently changed and does not help anymore, or at least as much as before. Please keep me updated?
Thank you.
Cher
We hear the original formula is coming back – I’ll update this blog and announce it in my newsletter when I know more
(be sure to sign up for the newsletter if you’re not already getting it)
Cher
Just making sure you have seen the updates on the Original Forumula Seriphos – new blog post here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/seriphos-original-formula-anxiety-insomnia-cortisol/ (it went out via my weekly newsletter today too)
I received some of the old formula that Interplexus brought back from http://www.naturalhealthyconcepts.com over a week ago. I thought I could go back to my old pattern of using it, but no luck. Something with me must have changed or it’s still not the original. Trying it at different times and doses to see if I can make it work.
Jules
Thanks for the update. You are now the second person to say the old formula isn’t working for them. I do hope it’s the real deal i.e. really the old formula. According to their the company website it’s not yet available. I’ve emailed to find out the status but it could be that the site is out of date?
Does the bottle you have indicate anything about it being NEW or the Original or old formula? and what are the ingredients? Phosphorylated serine should be the main one.
Please do keep us updated as to how it goes. I know many here in the community (and elsewhere) are super excited but I don’t want to announce it until I’ve heard back from enough people about it working as before.
The bottle as a new label. Well, a small red triangle on the upper left of the label that says original formula. Also, there was a huge label attached around the neck of the bottle with a rubber band that indicates it’s the original. Ive stopped taking it. It’s just isn’t working and I bought 2 bottles. I’m very disappointed.
Jules
Thanks for the bottle details. I am sorry to hear it’s not working and will keep you and everyone posted as I learn more. Have you considered trying some of the alternatives like lactium or Relora?
The original formulation is now available here in the UK – it has a red section on the label saying ‘ORIGINAL FORMULA’ and the ingredients are: Phosphorylated Serine/Ethanolamine 1000 mg. I presume this is the real deal?! Here is the link:
http://www.detoxpeople.eu/index.php?l=product_detail&p=3046
Thanks Drew – I’m not yet sure if the Original Formula is the same as the old formula. I’m waiting to hear back from Interplexus and have heard 2 reports that it doesn’t seem to work the same as before.
Many thanks Trudy – look fwd to hearing what Interplexus have to say. I won’t start mine until I hear from you. I’ve called the supplier here twice (http://www.detoxpeople.eu/index.php?l=product_detail&p=3046) and they reassure me that this is the new version of the original formula which was released at the end of December 2016. Who knows!?
Hi,
I bought some just over a week ago and it certainly states on the bottle and on an additional label its the ‘original formula’ that they are using. After seeing your blog and reading forums about it, I was somewhat excited to get hold of this product as it sounded great so have been wiating some time to buy the ‘original formula’ but obviously cant comment on how it compares to the original old formula. I am still not exactly sure what quantities to take and when – I suffer from moderate ME and adrenal issues with too much cortisol production reeking havoc especially at night when I tend to be woken up betwen 4-5.30 am feeling really wired but tired at the same time…. so unable to get back to sleep. The first few night of taking it seemed to help but last night wasnt so great but I am not sure whether it is normal to still have your off days/nights and if it takes a while to really settle and see the results? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you
Amanda
I’m not yet sure if the Seriphos Original Formula is the same as the old formula. I’m waiting to hear back from Interplexus and have heard 2 reports that it doesn’t seem to work the same as before.
I have had clients use it 1-2 hours before the high cortisol and they have noticed a difference right away (within a few days) and it tends to be consistent. It’s more challenging when it’s 4-5:30am – I would have them use it then and also consider lactium as it works right away
Amanda
Just making sure you have seen the updates on the Original Forumula Seriphos – new blog post here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/seriphos-original-formula-anxiety-insomnia-cortisol/
Trudy
I posted a response on here earlier but it doesnt seem to be appearig – did you get it or was it lost in cyberspace? thanks
Amanda
Amanda
All comments are moderated and approved so there may be a delay 🙂
Thanks Trudy…
If you are able to respond or give me an advice about quantities or how best to take them (as per my email), then I would be really very grateful.
thanks
Amanda
Thanks Trudy…
If you are able to respond to my email I would be so grateful. thanks
Amanda
Please see my comment above – I think you’re referring to this. I also reply to comment as time permits so sometimes you may have to wait awhile 🙂
Hi Trudy,
Thank you so much for the wonderful information you give us!!
I’m still searching solutions for my unpleasant symptoms. After reading the last discussions I was wondering about the Cortisol being a factor. I copy here only the Cortisol results of my Dutch dry urine tests I did half a year ago. Do you think the high parameters which are moderate can be a factor? Is it worth trying to reduce it?
Thanks Rachel
Daily Free Cortisol and Cortisone
Collection Times:
2016-06-04 05:20PM
2016-06-04 10:50PM
2016-06-05 03:20AM
2016-06-05 06:00AM
2016-06-05 08:00AM
Dutch – Dry Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones
Sex Hormones and Metabolites
Cortisol A (Waking) Above range 59.8 ng/mg 12 – 40
Cortisol B (Morning) Above range 124.8 ng/mg 38 – 120
Cortisol C (Afternoon) Low end of range 8.0 ng/mg 7.3 – 21
Cortisol D (Night) Within range 4.5 ng/mg 0 – 10
Cortisone A (Waking) Within range 78.4 ng/mg 40 – 100
Cortisone B (Morning) Within range 164.6 ng/mg 90 – 200
Cortisone C (Afternoon) Within range 42.0 ng/mg 32 – 80
Cortisone D (Night) Within range 17.5 ng/mg 0 – 42
24hr Free Cortisol Above range 197.0 ug 80 – 185
24hr Free Cortisone Within range 302.0 ug 220 – 400
Cortisol Metabolites and DHEAS
a-Tetrahydrocortisol (a-THF) Within range 225.0 ng/mg 75 – 265
b-Tetrahydrocortisol (b-THF) Within range 1611.0 ng/mg 1050 – 2070
b-Tetrahydrocortisone (b-THE) Within range 2327.0 ng/mg 1550 – 3150
Metabolized Cortisol (THF+THE) Within range 4162.0 ng/mg 2750 – 5400
DHEAS Low end of range 58.0 ng/mg 23 – 350
Melatonin (*measured as 6-OH-Melatonin-Sulfate)
Melatonin* (Waking) Within range 27.6 ng/mg 10 – 50
I
Hi Rachel
My recommendation would be to check with the ordering doctor. This is not a test I currently use so it’s hard for me to know if the above range waking and morning cortisol and 24hr Free Cortisol is problematic. I would suspect so especially if there symptoms of anxiety
Thanks a lot Trudy!
My question is about Seriphos. i read an excerpt from The Mood Cure book and it said to only take Seriphos for three months. I have been taking it for three years. I now prefer to take Enerphos. Both Seriphos and Enerphos have helped me to sleep better than any other product I have ever taken. Why does The Mood Cure book instructions/directions tell you to stop taking it after three months.
Hi Kathleen, I have used seriphos in the past with good results and I have the Mood Cure book too. Its a reference book I keep on hand!! I have read that she recommends only 3 months too, but I think she also says to take breaks. My guess would be that its does such a good job of reducing cortisol that it could cause complications as cortisol going too low and that’s not a good thing either. I think Diagnostech (the saliva test people) say taking a break is a good thing too. It might also depend on how much you are taking. hope this helps.
Kaye and Kathleen
Cortisol production can shift in 3 months which is when retesting with saliva is recommended so it makes sense to stop for a short time while waiting for the results. And yes you don’t want cortisol to go too low.
Hello, Trudy, would you be able to provide a list of foods, protein sources, fruits, grains, calcium and magnesium foods that Should be eaten to promote a Low Oxylate, or a reduced Oxylate diet, but still offer herbs, foods, vegetables, fruits that are good for woman to help with this condition.
Thanks Cheryl Ku
Hello, Trudy, I would like to know how and if I could get a saliva testing kit to test for MFTHR gene. My half sister told me that she has had a blood test for the gene marker, and it was revealed that she has the 2 types of genes for it, so apparently one came from my mother (our Birth Mum) and one came from her father, possibly. My half-sister’s daughter is being treated for the symptoms of MfTHR, by giving her the correct B12, Magnesium, but the daughter is on the Birth Control Pill as to regulate her period and also Antidepressants too. My half-sister complains that she really did not get any formal “education by her Medical Doctor” about what to do with the Gene Information of the MFTHR gene result (Positive Test). My sister is also on Antidepressants for her issues as well, and is going thru Menopause as we speak. I have never been tested, and either has my Mum….Me my sister, and my mom are all treated for thyroid issues, Hypo thyroidism, and on medication. Please let me know about the gene blood test and or the saliva kit test if you know anything about this. Thank You, Cheryl
Trudy Scott: i still feel wired and Very awake at night due to a flipped Cortisol so I think that would mean that it would be a good idea to continue taking the Enerphos until I normalize. I had no problem sleeping until i took bad advice from a friend in 2012 when I went Off my Armor Thyroid that I has been on for ten years and switched to another product-homeopathic- -for a couple of months. THat was a major mistake. That is what caused the flipped Cortisol and the sleepless nights for two years until I starting using Enerphos and Seriphos.
Hello Trudy,
Thank you for this informative post- I just started Seriphos after taking Phosphatidyl Serine for 2 weeks for sleep-maintenance insomnia. The PS hasn’t done anything for the insomnia but it has helped with the cognitive impairment(excessive daytime sleepiness, confusion, memory/recall being affected) I have.
I sleep 3-4 hours after which I wake up and am unable to fall asleep again. It is truly debilitating and has been going on for a good 9 years now. My midnight cortisol is 12 (normal being 1-4) and the rest of the day the levels are normal.
My question is what time and dose should i be taking the Seriphos given that it is my night time cortisol that’s high? I tried Seriphos for the first time ever in the afternoon yesterday and still slept my regular 3 hours. Don’t know if I should keep taking it at the same dose regardless or up the dose? This morning took 1 capsule- will see how tonight goes.
Please help!
In addition, I take B-complex, vit D and C.
Neha
I have my clients take 3 Seriphos a few hours before the high cortisol. A few clients find 3 capsules is too much and then we reduce to 1 or 2.
Hi Trudy,
I want to share with you that I had trouble sleeping for YEARS, and I took many different supplements that didn’t work for me. My Naturopath noticed that I was low in Magnesium and suggested I start on, Mag w/srt, and It has worked wonders. I still take melatonin with it, but that is nothing compared to the cocktail of supps I used to take.
Now to find a place to purchase these supplements. Emerson Ecologics, a place where I usually bought good quality supps, has changed hands and became Wellevate. It appears that they are not carrying a good selection since the takeover. Any suggestions?
Hi Maureen
Glad to hear magnesium has helped your sleep! I’d love to know what Mag w/srt is?
I’d love to hear which products they no longer carry so I can find a good source for professional grade products. By the way, Wellevate is still part of Emerson – it’s just the new online platform
Life Extentions has great products you can trust. I yes this company. How much magnesium
Hi there,
It looks as though the original formula has returned (Seriphos). I read that one should take 100 mg a day and work up to 300 mg a day. Am I missing something? These capsules have 1000 mg. I’m almost nuts with adrenal issues. I wake up at night and am wired, don’t sleep properly, and drag around all day. Do you have any thoughts?
Here’s the link.
https://naturalbiohealth.com/2015/10/02/feed-your-brain-reduce-stress-damage/
Please see my other response about the Seriphos and keep in mind this can also be due to gluten, SIBO, low blood sugar, parasites, too late on the computer/iphone, low serotonin, low melatonin
Hi there,
Thanks for the input. I definitely can’t eat gluten. I haven’t in years. I eliminated many things. I had stool analysis, and one thing I noticed is the absence of flora, like E. Coli. I have Lyme and co-infections. I’m treating with Chinese herbs and bee sting therapy. I’m sure I have low blood sugar at times and other issues with different hormones.
I’ve had issues sleeping for years due to my infections, but this is different. I can’t stay awake during the day. I’m dragging. I might try this, but I’ve seen varying responses from people that bother me. Some said it made them not be able to sleep at all.
For anyone watching, I wrote the manufacturer and they said that there is only 90 mg. of the phosphorylated serine in each capsule. So the rest is a blend of other ingredients.
Thanks for the response.
Hi Cheryl, Ive been reading your excerpts here and was a tad bit confused! (At times that’s not hard for me!! LOL) In your 1st note you said that Seriphos had come back in the original form (also as Trudy had said in this article) but then you said you understood that u were to take 100-300mg. a day (of what?) and on the Seriphos bottle is says 1000mg. So, I went to the article you cited about Seriphos and could find no reference to dosage. So not sure where you got info on dosage. Then in your second note you said you contacted the manufacturer and I’m assuming you mean Interplexus and they said there is only 90mg. of phosphorylated serine in each cap. U don’t say if you have tried Seriphos yet. I have! I have a bottle of Seriphos here and heres what it says on the ingredients. Phosphorylated serine/ Ethanolamine in proprietary blend of 1000 mg. comes in a cellulose vegie cap and there is nothing else in it. But phosphorylated serine is different than phosphlatidyl serine. What I have found for me. I have done Seriphos (original formula) over the years. Depending on how my health was going, it helped a lot and sometimes didn’t. I have found it kind of difficult to time the dosage so it works consistently. Esp. during the day. So recently, I am on a schedule of 2 Seriophos before bed and if I have had an episode of trauma or stress I will take one at about 3 or 4 in morning. It has really helped with waking to anxiety. The original formula Seriphos has been a tried and true product for how many years???? don’t know. love….
Hi guys
What you think about situation like mine?…I have low daytime cortisol(ATF stage 3),and feels like at night my cortisol is higher than should be:after 2am I feel wired and anxious sometimes..Can`t fall back to sleep.So will product like Seriphos do the job for managing high nighttime cortisol and wont mess with my already low daytime cortisol?
Regards to all
Tom
Tom
Seriphos, when used a few hours before high cortisol, typically lowers it. I also use adrenal nutritional support like Bs, vitamin C, extra pantothenic acid, rhodiola.
Hi Tom, I’m beginning to think that high cortisol just doesn’t have a permanent fix!!! Ive been at this for years and still it seems its a matter of managing it. I am right now using 3 seriphos as Trudy recommends. I was taking 2 at night but it didn’t help. I take it before bed and am not having the wake up at 2-3 with angst symptoms and rarely having angst in the morning. I have “faithfully” been taking it for 2 months and am sleeping better than I have in years. I’m not sure how long seriphos stays in the body to have an affect on your daytime cortisol levels. But it does seem that once the cortisol is down, it stays that way for hours at least for me. So, like I take it at night (around 9-10pm) then usually if I get hyper it will start around 2-3 in afternoon next day. hope this helps. K
I had Severe Insomnia for Three Years due to flipped Cortisol and hyper thyroid and Adrenal Exhaustion.
I used Seriphos And Enerphos. Both worked and Both are Excellent. One takes Less pills than the other. read the label.
I took Nine Seriphos pills a night. The formula is basically the Same. It is just the one of the Brands you need to take twice as much because of Dosage. Read the Label. I tried seven plus different Sleeping Pills . Had Terrible reactions. Tried all kinds of sleep Aids. Seriphos and Enerphos are the only Pills that worked with Zero side effects. i took nine a night of Seiphos at night a couple of hours before I wanted to sleep for aprox 3 years. As of now I am sleeping with No pills. Only Chamomile tea.
Kathleen
Thanks for sharing your experiences with Seriphos and Enerphos. Glad to hear you’re now sleeping.
It’s interesting to hear your results since 9 Seriphos is a lot when the typical recommendation is 3 per day. Also it’s not clear if you used less of the Enerphos or more?
Oh ooops to Trudy, do you have any helps for palpitations? I’m using mag. gly. 400mg. potassium 99mg. and taurine. but they don’t seem to want to go away. I have had heart testing and no problems. hmmm thought you might have something that I haven’t researched… love. K
Kaye
I’d look at diet and see if there is a correlation – something new added? like collagen or gelatin https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/collagen-gelatin-lower-serotonin-increase-anxiety-depression/. A new supplement? Too much of a supplement? Medications? Hashimoto’s?
I thought the dose was 1 seriphos? possibly 2 if needed? now its 3?
Hi Cher…. well its always been my understanding that going from the saliva test, u take 1 a few hours before the high cortisol on the test. But I have been doing better just using 3 at night to hammer down the high cortisol in the morning. Kind of hard to take in middle of night. Consistency being the problem for me. and 1 just didn’t do it. But to answer your question, yes Trudy says to take 3 but I don’t think its supposed to be for long term use that much, and it looks like Kathleen is taking 9. So if the three doesn’t work than Im comfortable increasing. hope this helps. 🙂 Kaye
Thank you.
Cher
The recommended dose of Seriphos is 1-3 a few hours before the high cortisol. Most of my clients do well with 3 and a few need to back down to 1 or 2.
Thank you .
Thank you.
Hi Trudy,Kaye,Kathleen,thank you for your response and for sharing!
Bought Seriphos already and hope I`ll sleep better;-).I heard that they are back to original formula.
Anyway,just recently learned about adrenals..That`s my story-no matter how hard you will try to stay on diet,live stress free live ,exercise,great supplements..but if you have toxins,infection or inflammation in your body you`ll never gonna get better.It`s a big extra load to your adrenals..
I had stressful life ,but that was in my past.For last 2 years I have almost stress free life.I do exercise when I have energy.I always had healthy diet,but I started sugar,gluten free diet months ago…I was using great supplements,minerals…And anyway was feeling like a crap.I felt this for years…Insomnia,fatigue,brain fog,depression-those are just few to mention.Had all possible tests done-Yeah,it shows cortisol is low..All neurotransmitters are low..Otherwise my blood results are outstanding!
And finally it happened few months ago.I started to have big digestion problems and was diagnosed positive to H pylori bacteria.I never had big issues with my digestion, but right now I`m recalling some weird episodes years and years ago.It`s possible that I had this for decades.Plus I have big issues lately and infection with my teeth,unfortunately. And signs of Candida.Working on this too!..;-).Hopefully I found the root of all my problems.
So,there always has to be a cause why we feel low..
Thanks again for your replies and have a blessed day!
This is an answer to Carolyn about Tryptophan.
Enerphos- is what I take -also Seriphos-original Formula.
I had a really bad experience with Tryptophan. Have you tried Enerphos or Seriphos. that is the only product that really worked for me.
Kathleen
Thanks for sharing about Enerphos – glad to hear some people find it helps. May I ask what happened with tryptophan and which brand you used?
I have read from various sources online that Seriphos can be used to “train” the nervous system to permanently decrease cortisol secretion. However, when I look at reviews, blogs, etc. I see a lot of people claim to have been using it for years. If they are then is there no truth to that? I’m looking to start supplementing with Seriphos and hoping I could get my cortisol permanently sorted out in 90 days.
Hi RFranco, I have been on and off seriphos for years. I have never read anywhere that it is a permanent fix. BUT I cannot at this point live without it. It does an amazing job of lowering cortisol and fairly quickly. Once I found my dose. Im sure this doesn’t help and I can hear your disappointment. Unless you find the cause of your high cortisol, Im not sure there is anything that will lower it permanently. I have tried everything on the market. and zip…… Kaye and I have not found the cause of mine……
Hi Kaye, as a matter of fact I do know the cause of my high cortisol. It was a stressful event in my life 2 years ago that kicked my HPA into high gear and left it there permanently. Perhaps your high cortisol is caused by a medical condition so in that case you may have to take Seriphos for the rest of your life, I know everyone is different. But to me, finding the cause seems irrelevant, since that cause is already gone from my life and in it’s wake it left my HPA permanently dysregulated. And that is why I have high hopes that Seriphos will bring my HPA back down and rebalance itself, because from all the literature I read, it seems to work upstream on the pituitary to gently teach it to not produce too much ACTH. If a stressful event managed to push the baseline up, Seriphos may be the key to push it back down again.
There are various literature written by functional doctors about this permanent effect. Some examples are:
https://www.juliarosscures.com/identifying-and-correcting-elevated-cortisol-levels/
http://www.youralternativedoctor.com/what-to-do-if-you-cant-sleep/
Hi RFranco! Yes, I think Seriphos is the key to bringing down your cortisol levels. My HPA is dyregulated too. But I cant pinpoint exact cause. Mine is probably constant stress and how my mind deals with it. I do have Julias book. Years ago, I read all her stuff and wished she lived near me. Trudy worked with her. Shes how I learned how to use Seriphos. Your explanation sounds valid for you. So give Seriphos a shot. I usually take mine before bed (I take 3). After reading another blogger on here who used 9 a day, I figured I would up mine and thankfully it worked. Another thing I found recently, is a doc named Dr. Michael Platt, who coined the phrase Adrenaline Dominance. Its caused by low progesterone. So I have increased my progesterone and it has really helped a lot!!! He has two books out and they are fascinating to read about his theories. If you go to his website, he has a quiz then he actually calls you. Shocked me cuz it doesn’t say he will call you. LOL. Just an FYI Adrenaline dominance can be present in both men and women. Glad you text back..
Thanks for the great article, Trudy.
InterPlexus has gone back to the original formula (like Coca Cola did).
It appears that many people may not have responded to the revised formula because it contained phosphatidylserine in place of the more active phosphorylated serine.
All the best,
Your functional medicine fan,
David.
David
You’re very welcome. You are correct – it’s the phosphorylated serine that is so effective. I did actually blog about being back January 20, 2017 – Seriphos Original Formula is back: the best product for anxiety and insomnia caused by high cortisol https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/seriphos-original-formula-anxiety-insomnia-cortisol/
I omitted to update the blog and have now done so
Hey Trudy, I have severe insomnia, waking up every night around 2-4am and can’t go back to sleep. I am pretty sure it is from high cortisol spikes at night. I am waiting for a saliva cortisol test to confirm. I feel like I have tried everything. What confuses me is that when I use products with Phosphatidyl Serine (like Seriphos and ProCortisol Balance) it actually makes my sleep worse, and makes me more agitated.. I am SO confused by this. Any suggestions on what to do or ideas on why this is?
Heather
I only use Seriphos if cortisol is high. There are a few clients who don’t tolerate it and we use less or something else.
If cortisol is not high and there is still early waking we look into gluten issues, SIBO, parasites, poor bile production/oxalates, liver issues etc. And we always address the basics of diet, blood sugar, low GABA, low serotonin, dark cool room, no EMFs etc.
This may be helpful – Waking in the night due to environmental toxins: impacts on the liver, gallbladder and fat digestion (making oxalate issues worse) https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/waking-in-the-night-due-to-environmental-toxins-impacts-on-the-liver-gallbladder-and-fat-digestion-making-oxalate-issues-worse/
Hi Trudy,
My 7 year old daughter has inattentive ADD. We have seen tremendous improvement with her supplement regimen. She takes GABA (with inositol and taurine), L-theanine, l-tyrosine, b6, d3/k2, high quality EPA and DHA, magnesium and another very high quality probiotic. I also have her on a pretty strict diet. Gluten free (for the most part), low sugar (as much as a seven year old can be hahah), organic fruits and veggies and grass fed meat and heirloom chicken. High quality fats, etc. She is also in CBT.
SO…… While she has no problem falling asleep. We have one missing puzzle piece. She wakes up between 2 and 3am every night. Sometimes she can fall back asleep pretty easily but other times she’s up and can’t fall back asleep for sometimes 2 hours. I have taught her different modalities like somatic movements, butterfly taps, hip-rocking, deep breaths, etc per our CBT. So I am wondering what I should do… Is it behavioral (anxiety) or a spike in cortisol? Should I try 5 htp or Seriphos?
Many thanks. This has been quite the journey.
Kindly,
Danielle
Danielle
It’s wonderful she has seen such an improvement.
I only use Seriphos when I have seen labs indicating elevated night time cortisol. In a situation like this I’d explore low blood sugar, low serotonin/tryptophan, timed-release melatonin, GABA/more GABA at night, watch the timing of tyrosine and fish oils (they are stimulating), EMFs/light and look into the possibility of parasites (worms often wake children).
I love the dietary changes you have made!
Hi Trudy,
I have used Seriphos to help lower my cortisol in order to help me fall and stay asleep, it helped me for the first 3 months. now it’s not working anymore. my sleep become awful, i struggle falling asleep and I’m waking up really early again and can’t fall back asleep. I’ve been using it for 3 months with 24 hrs break each month. Is it possible to build tolerance on Seriphos? I tried increasing the dosage, but i still struggle to sleep. Thank you for your answer