Posted by Larry Hoover on August 14, 2004, at 15:49:05
In reply to Tryptophan turning into serotonin » Larry Hoover, posted by Marty mc Fly on July 25, 2004, at 19:01:30
> Does it help you to use tryptophan on a non-daily basis ?
I think it does. Most of the serotonin in your brain is stored, anyway. I suspect it increases the stores.
> Cause if the theory is right,
Which theory is that?
> you have to take in for at least 2 weeks in order to desensitize the sensitivity of the serotonin network, like when using an AD.
There is no clear evidence of how antidepressants work. No theory is yet proven.
> To have the number of serotonin receptors decreased by the extra amount of serotonin in your brain (thanks to the tryptophan) takes some time, doesn't it ?
I have no idea. I know that increasing the supply of tryptophan increases brain serotonin levels.
> Sometimes if I use extra orange juice after I have taken the tryptophan the effect becomes greater. That would be logical because when large amounts of carbos are eaten, the body secretes insulin to lower the ensuing high blood sugar. Insulin clears from the blood most of the amino acids that compete with tryptophan. Tryptophan can reach the brain easier and more serotonin is produced.That's correct.
> But If I take an egg or milk after the use of tryptophan, I experience the same: greater effect. Why would this be ? Because eating more proteins only increases the competition for tryptophan to reach the brain.
That doesn't fit with how I understand things, but whatever works, works.
> Or would this be the tryptophan in the egg/milk that is producing the extra effect ? Does anyone have any idea ?
There is really very little tryptophan in eggs, milk, or any other protein.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:366955
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20040718/msgs/377659.html