Tryptophan supplementation and serotonin synthesis: a systematic review of human studies
Kikuchi AM, Tanabe A, Iwahori Y
Published in Journal of Dietary Supplements
Methodology
Systematic review of randomised human trials of L-tryptophan supplementation on mood, sleep and serotonergic outcomes.
Key Findings
Tryptophan supplementation improved mood and sleep measures consistent with increased central serotonin synthesis, with effects clearest in vulnerable groups.
Conclusions
Tryptophan reliably raises serotonin precursor availability with modest mood effect.
Limitations
Heterogeneous doses; short-term outcomes.
Supplements Studied
Tryptophan supplementation improved mood and sleep measures consistent with increased central serotonin synthesis
Outcomes Measured
Tryptophan supplementation improved mood and sleep measures consistent with increased central serotonin synthesis
Study Details
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