Is L Tryptophan a good supplement to take?

L-Tryptophan can be a beneficial supplement for boosting serotonin levels, which in turn, can enhance overall mood and well-being. Foods rich in tryptophan such as turkey, milk, oats, cheese, nuts, seeds, and chocolate, can naturally increase serotonin availability in the brain and body 1. However, Andrew Huberman also describes personal experiences with the use of L-Tryptophan and its precursor, 5-HTP, for improving sleep. He mentions that although these can lead to a quick onset of sleep, they may disrupt sleep architecture, causing issues like waking up in the middle of the night and experiencing difficulties in returning to sleep 2 3.

While the intention behind using L-Tryptophan is to increase serotonin for better mood and sleep, the effects can vary greatly among individuals. It's important to approach it with caution and potentially discuss it with a healthcare provider, especially concerning its impact on sleep patterns and overall neurochemical balance 4.