5-htd - Page 2

[Ruthla]

5-HTTP makes SSRIs more potent- 5-HTTP helps the body create seratonin and then SSRIs keep the seratonin in circulation longer. Mixing them together can result in an "overdose" or it can result in a smaller dose of the SSRI being effective for you- they shouldn't be combined without caution but it's not accurate to say they should NEVER be combined.

[Gale Force]

That's a good point Ruthla. But I doubt anybody will find a doc who will recommend combining them. A mainstream doc wouldn't do it. An alternative doc using aminos might order bloodwork and then base the aminos on the unique needs of the patient, rather than a combination of meds and aminos.

But for anyone experimenting, crazy stuff can happen in your head with too much of this stuff. Definitely watch for signs very carefully. Tests are a much better approach. Doctor's Data now has a plasma amino test as does Metametrix (which I've posted a lot about). It's not all about serotonin.

[wiccan mom]

Gale and Ruthla: thanks for your obviously informed opinions. I am waiting for my doc's appt (next week) before I do anything with my meds. Btw - I found a stashed-away bottle of Bach's Rescue Remedy (it's homeopathic) and I've been using it, cutting out all caffeine and going to bed early. So far, I'm feeling better than last week - less jumpy and irritable, not so many cryingspells. (crossing fingers)...so I'm waiting to see what the doc says and supplementing with the RescueRemedy.

Thanks again for your help.

[Gale Force]

wiccan mom -- I'm so glad you're getting some relief. Keep us posted.

[xenomama]

From Hale:

Unfortunately, there are no data on the transfer of exogenously supplied LTP or 5-HTP into human milk. For instance, it is not apparently known if high maternal plasma levels would produce high milk levels. While it is true human milk contains higher levels of LTP, presumably to stimulate serotonin levels in the infant's CNS, it is not known if high maternal doses would likewise produce high milk levels. Because the infant's neurologic development is incredibly sensitive to serotonin levels, and because we do not know if supplementation with LTP or 5-HTP could produce high milk levels leading to overdose in the infant, this author does not recommend the use of L-tryptophan or 5-HTP supplementation in breastfeeding mothers until we know corresponding milk levels.

He also states, in another place on his website:

the amino acid content in milk is pretty well controlled by the breast. But this would only be true for a normal doseage, not super high doses.

I don't know what to do - since I was responding well to it. I also found info about other amino acids, but he gives conflicting responses as to safety. Someone help me reason through this! I mean, wouldn't it also be a problem if my amino acids were too low? I know my serotonin isn't high enough, since the 5-HTP provides such ready relief. Where can I get reliable amino acid testing?

Oh, and I also found info online about 5-HTP suppressing prolactin, which obviously would suppress milk supply. Anyone else found this?

[littld62]

5 - HTP
-Hormones
-5-HTP may increase the production of Prolactin

5-HTP and Prolactin (Research)
Peer-Reviewed Professional Journals

·Kato, Y., et al. Effect of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) on plasma prolactin levels in man. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 38(4):695-697, 1974.

Oral administration of 200 mg of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) in 18 of 21 normal subjects significantly increased plasma prolactin levels.

Layperson’s Publications

·Pearson, D., et al. Prolactin: sex and immune activation. The Durk Pearson & Sandy Shaw Life Extension News. 7(2), 2004.

In-Tele-Health © 2005

[xenomama]

Well, now, that makes no sense. Guess it just goes to show that you can find all kinds of inaccurate stuff online. I didn't do the research, so thanks for that reference. That's one less thing to worry about.

I have to admit, I caved today and took a capsule. I literally felt like I was coming apart at the seams. I really need that morning dose. I think I'd do best taking it every 4 hours or so. Unfortunately, I do get a bit of nausea when I take it. The good side is I eat less.

[littld62]

You can also try these Substances may Alleviate Postpartum Depression

Amino Acids

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) may be effective for treating Postpartum Depression.

Fish Oils may help to prevent Postpartum Depression (due to the Superunsaturated (Omega-3) Fatty Acids content of Fish Oils)

Hormones

The female body's decline in Progesterone production is involved in Postpartum Depression and supplemental, natural Progesterone may alleviate Postpartum Depression.

Lipids

Postpartum Depression may occur as a result of Superunsaturated Fatty Acids deficiency:
-Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) may be the most effective of the Superunsaturated Fatty Acids for the treatment of Postpartum Depression.

Vitamins

Vitamin B6 (25 - 50 mg per day) may alleviate some cases of Postpartum Depression


These Substances may Inhibit the Endogenous Production of Prolactin

Amino Acids

L-Dopa may inhibit the release of Prolactin from the Pituitary Gland.

Minerals

Nickel may help to lower elevated Prolactin levels.
Zinc (50 mg per day) may lower elevated Prolactin levels.

Neurotransmitters

Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) may inhibit the production of Prolactin.

Pharmaceutical Drugs

Bromocriptine may inhibit the release of Prolactin from the Pituitary Gland.

Polyphenols

Gamma Oryzanol may inhibit the release of Prolactin from the Pituitary Gland.

Vitamins

Vitamin B6 may help to lower elevated Prolactin levels.
Vitamin C may lower elevated Prolactin levels.

These Herbs may Inhibit the Endogenous Production of Prolactin

Bugleweed may lower the body’s levels of Prolactin.

Chaste Berry may normalize the body’s production and secretion of Prolactin (it is believed to lower elevated Prolactin levels while increasing sub-optimal Prolactin levels).

Korean Ginseng may lower elevated Prolactin levels in males.

Pygeum may reduce elevated Prolactin levels (due to the Docosenol and Tetracosanol content of Pygeum).
Saint John’s Wort may lower serum Prolactin levels.

[Gale Force]

xenomama:

Reliable amino acids test

Here are two:

Metametrix blood spot

Doctor's Data

I've gotten the Metametrix test a number of times. It's about $125 and your doctor will have to order it. Alternatively, www.directlabs.com would order the test for you through their doc and you would pay a premium (not sure how much).

I plan to get a follow-up test in the next month or so and will try the Doctor's Data. Their sample report shows that they provide an analysis of mineral and B vitamin deficiencies based on the amino profile. Basically, how well you are converting proteins to aminos tells them what other issues you may have.

Amanda

[yogachick79]

I second OPs post about Progesterone being an option to help with PPD. I felt SO much more balanced when taking my Progesterone and actually started back on it when my PPD kicked in but our financial situation has taken a serious dip and so I am doing good just to get in my suppliments. I got it from a doc that I used to work for and got to see first hand the good effects that it had for many women with PPD, depression, anxiety and other hormonal/emotional problems.

I should note that the progesterone that I am talking about is a natural compound, not the synthetic stuff that your typical doc will write for.

[xenomama]

I spoke with Julia Ross' office yesterday (author of The Mood Cure), and I was told to have my serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine levels tested. Any idea what test that would be?

[Gale Force]

Originally Posted by xenomama

I spoke with Julia Ross' office yesterday (author of The Mood Cure), and I was told to have my serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine levels tested. Any idea what test that would be?

The amino profile is one step removed from these. Call her office back and ask where to get this test done.

[Hmark]

The role of 5 htp supplements in pregnancy has not been studied so it is really not known the safety of 5 htp in woman who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Therefore it is highly recommended not to take 5 htp. More information can be found at http://www.raysahelian.com/5htp.html

Hope this information helps.

[Blancanieves]

The thyroid is very important too...

Hi!

I am still taking my nutrients: 5htp, True Focus, Omega 3, Gingko, Vitamins, Minerals and bioidentical Progesteron! I feel good with them..

But, yes but... my doctor detected 2 knots in my thyroid last week..(1cm) My TSH was by 2,13 and that is a little high..I have an subfunction and muss take L-Thyroxin 75 every day for 3 months..Iodine, Selenium, Folic acid as well.

So please check you thyroid, estrogen, progesterone and antibodies as well. My doctor detected the knots with ultraschall..when the thyroid levels (TSH, FT3 and FT4) are normal, it does not mean that your thyroid is ok.. Only a specialist can help.

Here some links about it:

http://www.thyroidfoundation.com.au/..._disorders.htm

http://thyroid.about.com/od/hormonep...se_Thyroid.htm

http://www.mentalhealth.com/mag1/p51-thyr.html

Bye, Blanca