Comment · Mon, November 11, 2013 · Ceretropic
5-HTP and multivitamins
Original post in this thread
dilnn760 · 5 points
So, I've read multiple articles on how taking 5-HTP with B6 metabolizes the 5-HTP too quickly, rendering it useless and potentially damaging the heart. I take multivitamins each morning, so my question is how long should I wait after taking the multivitamin to take 5-HTP to ensure that the B6 is out of my system enough that it doesnt metabolize too fast?
Im afraid that the only real solution is to switch to L-Tryptophan.
Also, very new to nootroopics and brain science, so go easy on me.
What they were answering
Direct reply to the original post — see the thread post above.
u/MisterYouAreSoDumb · Ceretropic
If you do not inhibit aromatic-L-amino-acid decarboxylase in your periphery, much of your 5-HTP will convert to serotonin before it can pass the blood brain barrier. Then it is incapable of reaching the brain. That is why it is suggested that you do not take B6 at the same time as the 5-HTP, and to take an aromatic-L-amino-acid decarboxylase inhibitor like EGCG.
However, why are you supplementing 5-HTP in the first place? It should not be used as a long-term supplement, unless for some reason you have a genetic mutation that lowers your tryptophan hydroxylase levels.