Optimized Tryptophan Plus
Life Extension
Optimized Tryptophan Plus
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(1307 ratings)
Lysine 250 mg
Niacin 66 mg
Tryptophan 1000 mg
Score 75.0
This product offers a convenient blend of L-Tryptophan, Niacinamide, and L-Lysine, highly effective for mood, stress, and sleep support, with secondary benefits for energy metabolism, skin, and immunity. Its main strength lies in the high L-Tryptophan dose.
Quantity: 90 Capsule(s)Servings size: 1 Vegetarian Capsule(s) (30 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Immunity
Skin Health
Hair Health
Heart Health
Energy
leaderboard Score 75.0
This product offers a convenient blend of L-Tryptophan, Niacinamide, and L-Lysine, highly effective for mood, stress, and sleep support, with secondary benefits for energy metabolism, skin, and immunity. Its main strength lies in the high L-Tryptophan dose.
insights Analysis
Life Extension's Optimized Tryptophan Plus is formulated with a synergistic blend of L-Tryptophan, Niacinamide, and L-Lysine, aiming to support a broad spectrum of health goals. The high dose of L-Tryptophan (1000mg) is a key feature, making it particularly effective for enhancing mood, reducing stress, and improving sleep quality by supporting serotonin and melatonin production. Niacinamide, an essential B vitamin, contributes to metabolic processes and nervous system health, while L-Lysine, an essential amino acid, plays a role in protein synthesis and immune function. Online reviews generally reflect user satisfaction, particularly regarding its calming and sleep-enhancing effects. However, while comprehensive, the dosages of Niacinamide and L-Lysine are moderate, meaning for specific needs in those areas, standalone supplements might be more targeted.
- Provides a high and effective dose of L-Tryptophan, strongly supporting mood, stress relief, and sleep.
- Includes Niacinamide and L-Lysine, offering synergistic benefits and convenience in a single supplement.
- Generally positive online reviews indicate user satisfaction with its primary effects.
- The dosages of L-Lysine are relatively modest compared to standalone L-Lysine supplements, potentially not sufficient for higher therapeutic needs.
- Some of the broader health goals, such as Heart Health and Hair Health, are not as robustly addressed by the specific ingredients and their forms in this product.
$24.00($0.80 per serving)
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bolt Effectiveness for goals
L-Tryptophan is an essential amino acid and a precursor to serotonin, a key neurotransmitter associated with mood. It is converted to 5-HTP, which then becomes serotonin in the brain. Adequate serotonin levels are important for maintaining a balanced mood.
L-Tryptophan serves as a precursor to melatonin, a hormone critical for regulating sleep-wake cycles. By supporting serotonin production, which can then be converted to melatonin, it helps facilitate the body's natural sleep processes. This pathway helps signal to the body when it's time to rest.
Niacin (as Niacinamide) is a B vitamin that plays a role in numerous metabolic reactions. While L-Tryptophan can be diverted by the body to produce its own niacin, providing supplemental niacinamide may help ensure more L-Tryptophan is available for serotonin synthesis. This interaction helps optimize the body's use of L-Tryptophan for its intended benefits.
L-Lysine and L-Tryptophan are both large neutral amino acids (LNAAs) and can potentially compete for transport across the blood-brain barrier. However, studies suggest that with typical supplement dosages, any competition may be minimal or complex. L-Lysine's primary role is generally not directly antagonistic to L-Tryptophan's function in serotonin synthesis.
Niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, is crucial for various metabolic processes, including energy production and DNA repair. It supports the nervous system and overall cellular health. Unlike nicotinic acid, niacinamide typically does not cause the common 'niacin flush.'
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
L-Tryptophan supplements are typically taken once or twice daily, often before bedtime or with meals, depending on individual needs. It is generally advised to follow the suggested serving information on the product label for specific guidance.
For support related to sleep, L-Tryptophan is often suggested to be taken approximately 30-60 minutes before bedtime. If taken for other purposes, it might be consumed earlier in the day, potentially with a small, protein-poor meal.
Some L-Tryptophan supplements are recommended on an empty stomach to enhance absorption, especially when targeting specific pathways in the brain. However, taking it with a small, carbohydrate-rich meal might also be suggested by some to aid transport.
Common dosages for L-Tryptophan in dietary supplements range from 500 mg to 1500 mg per day, with individual needs varying. The specific amount in a single serving should be considered in relation to total daily intake.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) can be synthesized in the body from L-Tryptophan. Including Niacinamide in a tryptophan supplement ensures adequate B3 levels, which is a precursor for serotonin and melatonin synthesis, supporting overall metabolic pathways.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
It is generally not recommended to combine L-tryptophan with antidepressant medications, particularly SSRIs or MAOIs, due to the potential risk of serotonin syndrome. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining these substances.
Potential side effects of L-tryptophan may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. Some individuals might also experience stomach upset.
L-tryptophan may enhance the sedative effects of alcohol and certain medications, such as benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants. This can lead to increased drowsiness and impaired coordination.
Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated and less likely to cause the skin flushing associated with nicotinic acid. However, high doses of niacin, including niacinamide, could potentially affect liver function in susceptible individuals, so caution is advised for those with liver conditions.
L-lysine is generally considered safe, but it may theoretically interact with calcium supplements by increasing calcium absorption. Individuals with kidney conditions should consult a healthcare provider before taking L-lysine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Niacin | 66 mg |
L-Tryptophan | 1000 mg |
L-Lysine | 250 mg |
Proprietary Tryptophan Plus Blend | 285 mg |
Categories
Tryptophan 90.0
The 1000mg dose of L-Tryptophan is substantial and effective, making it a core strength of this product for supporting mood, relaxation, and sleep.
Niacin 70.0
Provides a good supporting dose of Niacinamide, which is well-tolerated and useful for various metabolic processes and nervous system support. However, it's not a high dose for specific Niacin deficiencies.
Lysine 50.0
The 250mg dose of L-Lysine is relatively low compared to typical standalone supplements (500-1000mg) for specific uses like cold sore prevention. It offers some foundational support but not a potent therapeutic dose.
Goals
Mood Support 90.0
The 1000mg L-Tryptophan dose is highly effective as a precursor to serotonin, a key neurotransmitter for mood regulation. Niacinamide also plays a supportive role in neurological function.
Stress Relief 90.0
L-Tryptophan aids in the production of serotonin and melatonin, which are crucial for promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of stress. Its calming effects contribute significantly to stress alleviation.
Sleep Support 90.0
L-Tryptophan is a direct precursor to melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, making this product highly effective for improving sleep quality and onset.
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