Evidence supporting the use of: Tryptophan
For the health condition: Mood Swings

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid used by the body to synthesize serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, sleep, and behavior. Scientific evidence supports the idea that tryptophan supplementation can influence mood, though the strength of the evidence is moderate and effects may vary among individuals. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have shown that tryptophan (and its metabolite 5-HTP) can increase serotonin levels and may have a modest beneficial effect on mood, particularly in cases of mild depression or premenstrual mood disturbances. However, the evidence for its use specifically in "mood swings"—as opposed to clinically diagnosed mood disorders—is less robust. Some studies have demonstrated improvements in mood stability and reduced symptoms of irritability or mood lability, but these findings are not universal and sample sizes are often small.

Major guidelines do not routinely recommend tryptophan as a first-line treatment for mood swings, and there are safety concerns regarding serotonin syndrome, especially if combined with other serotonergic medications. Nonetheless, the scientific rationale for its use is sound, given its role in serotonin biosynthesis and the observed effects on mood parameters in some clinical studies. Overall, tryptophan is supported by moderate scientific evidence for influencing mood, with more research needed to clarify its efficacy and safety specifically for mood swings.

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Products containing Tryptophan

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