[bat]

i just read a medical question/answer in the guardian weekend mag. someone on effexor asked for an alternative. the answer said that effexor affects seratonin(mood) and noradrenalin(motivation). for seratonin supplement tryptophan by taking 5htp(100mg a day). for noradrenaline take amino acid tyrosine(2000mg a day). omega 3 and b vits may also help. i've never heard of tyrosine

 

[Guest]

have not got round to reading the weekend section of the guardian yet, but sounds interesting. Will have a read tommorrow and add some more comment then. But on a sidenote i have never heard of tyrosine either.

 

[Guest]

tyrosine can be found in protein shakes

 

[dakotajo]

Theres no doubt 5htp works. Its the serotonin precursor and will help build up serotonin concentrations if added to the diet. The problem is I wouldnt rely on it solely because there are too many factors that affect how well it will work. 5htp in the blood has to compete with amino acids to get to the brain. The best way to take it is to use it 45 minutes before or 2 hours after a protein meal. Keep in mind anytime you increase serotonin there may be initial agitation before you recieve any positive effects.

Joe