When you have anxiety it can be confusing trying to figure out the root cause. I like to start by assessing for low GABA and low serotonin because when you address these with targeted individual amino acids you typically see results right away and feel hopeful (and now have time to look for other root causes like gluten issues, high cortisol, gut issues, dietary changes etc).
But there may still be some confusion about when to use GABA and when to use tryptophan and how much of each of these amino acids to use.
I’d like to share a question I received on this blog: I am on 5-HTP for anxiety and I am wondering about trying tryptophan instead and my response so you have a clearer understanding of this:
I have started with Source Naturals GABA Calm 125 mg, 2 on awakening and two in mid-afternoon, and 2 GABA Relaxer at bedtime. It has taken some anxiety edge away from me, but I still feel some anxiety on and off, not so severe as before. I used to feel very anxious on awakening. I want to improve more.
Today, I ordered Lidtke L-trytophan 500mg and am expecting to receive it in a week. I plan to take 2 Gaba Calm on awakening and 2 in mid-afternoon, then add one 500mg Trytophan mid-afternoon and one 500 mg trytophan at bed time.
Is this a good plan? Or shall I have 2 GABA Calm on awakening, 2 trytophan mid-afternoon and 2 trytophan at bedtime.
It’s an excellent question and this is my feedback (with some additional information here for this blog post)
Firstly I’m so pleased to hear the GABA products has taken some of the anxiety edge away.
I would expect this when someone has the low GABA type of anxiety and hear this all the time despite the fact I continue to be asked the blood brain barrier question and does GABA really work as a supplement.
There is also no specific formula to be followed because each person is different and when I’m working with someone we’re figuring out what is working and why and adjusting accordingly. If something is working we continue with that until no additional benefits are seen.
Ask yourself what low GABA anxiety symptoms (this is the physical anxiety) have improved with the GABA and how much (rate each one before – out of 10; and what are they now – out of 10).
From your question it sounds like they could improve more – so if we were working together I’d continue to increase GABA before adding something new. I’d do this until the low GABA symptoms are resolved or until no additional benefits are observed.
Remember when it comes to brain chemical imbalances and anxiety we have 3 anxiety types
- Low GABA anxiety type (physical anxiety, more stiff and tense muscles)
- Low serotonin anxiety type (mental anxiety, ruminations, negative self-talk, worry)
- Low blood sugar anxiety type (physical anxiety, but more shaky)
You need to figure out which type of anxiety you are experiencing and address that. It can be different for each person but it’s not uncommon to experience all of the above.
Once that has been done and we have the ideal amount of GABA and no more low GABA anxiety symptoms I’d then check what low serotonin symptoms my client has (these are the busy mind, ruminations type or worry anxiety).
If she does have some of these symptoms, we pick one or two symptoms and do a trial with 1 x 500mg tryptophan opened on to the tongue (or less if she’s super sensitive). She rates the symptoms out of 10 before the tryptophan trial and then after the trial. Depending on how she responds on the trial, we’ll decide if she needs 1 or 2 x 500mg mid-afternoon and evening. The bedtime dose also depends on how bad the insomnia is. We continue to increase as needed based on symptoms until she has no more low serotonin type symptoms or until no additional benefits are observed.
All the while we are starting to make other changes – like diet, eating for blood sugar balance (this and using glutamine helps with the low blood sugar anxiety type), no caffeine, no sugar, looking for high cortisol, no gluten, looking at gut health and for other nutritional deficiencies.
Here are some links to additional resources related to the above:
- The amino acid questionnaire to help you figure out which anxiety type you have: low GABA or low serotonin
- How to do an amino acid trial
- Targeted individual amino acids: what do we really mean?
- Anxiety and the amino acids: an overview
- In this blog I make the following recommendation: if you do not have my book The Antianxiety Food Solution, I highly recommend getting it and reading it before jumping in to taking amino acids
- Here are the supplements I use with my clients
I’d love to hear your feedback – do you/did you have the low GABA type of anxiety or the low serotonin type of anxiety or the low blood sugar type of anxiety or all three?
And feel free to share the before rating (from 1 to 10) and the after rating (from 1 to 10) once you’re taking the corresponding amino acid.
Trudy, do you always suggest that tryptophan be opened and taken on the tongue, or just for the initial trial dose?
Abby
Always for the trial and then it depends on each person and how they respond to swallowed to opened. With some people with digestive issues swallowing is not as effective or they need more for same effects. GABA does always seem to be best opened all the time.
Trudy, do you prefer Tryophan over 5-HPT and you tell us why.
Also if one is on a low dose antidepressant and it trying to reduce it is it okay to add Tryophan, I know one should work with a dr my Doctor prefers 5-HPT but I do not feel it is working correctly for me as I am experiencing mood swings for the first time since I went from 50 to 100 and wanted to push to try Tryophan.
L love your knowledge and information, please consider taking me as a patient even if it is via Skype, please please
Hi Trudy
Thanks so much for all your info and research. I commented on one of your other blog posts that GABA doesn’t seem to work for me (I have tried up to 1200mg under the tongue) and I’m wondering why as I definitely have the low GABA anxiety symptoms.
You’ve mentioned on other blog posts that GABA (amino acids in general?) doesn’t work well if your thyroid is not working well. Why is that?
I have a thyroid that doesn’t work well and I take 40mg of Armour thyroid as prescribed by my health practitioner.
Should that help to make the GABA work or would my suboptimal thyroid still be interfering with the GABA?
I have read replies on your other blog posts from some other people that say GABA doesn’t seem to work for them either. It would be very interesting to try to find a common thread for the people that don’t respond to GABA.
I’ve had my genome sequenced at 23andme so I know my genetics if that helps at all (I do have a compromised Methylation pathway).
Thanks
Natalie
When this happens it could be that a person doesn’t need it or it could be due to thyroid health. It may also be genetics or gut health/dysbiosis/candida/bacterial imbalance/SIBO/parasites or prior or past benzodiazepine or SSRI prescriptions, or past or current fluoroquinolone antibiotics. I actually look at all past and current medications and do other “detective” work.
I’m fascinated that you would mention Fluoroquinoline antibiotics along with past SSRI medications as possible reasons for the GABA not working. I have suspected that these along with sedation for oral surgery are what put my daughters anxiety into HIGH GEAR… She’d been taking 40 mg of fluoxetine for years along with 150 mg oxcarbazepine, 50 hydroxyzine and 50 mg of trazodone for anxiety. About 8 months ago we tapered off all the fluoxetine and noticed less aggressive behaviors. (She has Cornelia DeLange Syndrome- mild mental retardation and autistic tendencies). She still obsessively picks at her gums and fingers and ended up with an abscessed tooth about 4 months ago. She was given a strong antibiotic (CYPRO) and followed up with another one for a UTI (in spite of all the probiotics we gave her) Soon after she ended up having oral surgery under general anesthesia. My sense is that all combined these drugs have flipped a switch in her brain and she’s been super anxious to the point of not wanting to leave the house and very clingy with me. I’ve read your book and have introduced GABA, B6, evening primrose oil, along with dietary changes. She’d been throwing up and barely ate for 3 months. The GI doctor added Amitriptyline… one more RX to add to the mix! I just hate this!!! We did a genomind DNA and are scheduled to see a functional medicine doctor who has requested we do a GI MAP stool test (Diagnostic Solutions Lab) along with an “OAT” urinalysis test. One good thing; after loosing 30 lbs- her appetite is gradually coming back.
How do you suggest dealing with the aftermath of those Fluoroquinolines and SSRIS? I’m hesitant to remove the other anxiety meds at this point but would eventually like her off all of them. Any thoughts or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Kathy
You have so much going on with your daughter you’re going to be best served working with the functional medicine doctor but I can share that following the basic dietary guidelines go a long way and addressing gut health and specific nutritional deficiencies. With the fluoroquinolines we work specifically on mitochondrial support, addressing low magnesium and low GABA etc.
I do caution my clients about the Genomind DNA testing because I am in favor of a non-drug approach and have seen this approach backfire. From the site: “It includes pharmacodynamic genes, which indicate the effect a drug has on the body and can inform drug candidate selection. It also includes pharmacokinetic genes, which indicate the effect the body has on the drug via metabolism and can inform drug dosage.” https://genomind.com/the-genecept-assay/clinicians/genes-analyzed/
Even when we know the genetics, they are such a small part and for many polymorphisms we have no way of knowing if they are expressing. There are also so many compounding factors like diet, toxin exposure, stress levels, current infections, gut health, past medications etc
Hi Trudy,
I was hoping to have a consultation with you when you are able to take on new clients. In the meantime, I am battling physical anxiety (muscle twitches throughout my body) after an injury at the end of August involving my neck and mid-back. I think the twitches happen more often due to anxiety about them. I have found that GABA calm (750mg) helps me. And I would like to take one in the morning and ones night. Is this ok? I don’t have any headaches from it and no side effects that I know of at least. I tried tryptophan (500mg) before bed from the company that you suggested, but it seems to cause heart palpitations (maybe – I did realize that I was ovulating when taking it so it might be hormones). Can I keep taking high doses of GABA until my muscle twitches get much better and/or go away? Do you recommend anyone else that is knowledgeable in GABA and dosing if you can’t take me as a patient? Thank you so much!
Tara
If GABA is working/helping and not causing any adverse effects high doses like this are fine. Hopefully you have found a solution by now.
Apologies for the delay in your comment approval and my response. We had a computer glitch where a large number of comments were hidden from view in a spam folder. It mostly affected new folks who were commenting for the first time but it’s hopefully resolved now.
GABA works very well. I take 1gram. I can tell the difference in about 20mins. the only symptom is that it slows down my breathing pattern. Maybe try a better brand. I feel good and happy. I get the job done. I can focus on my studies.
Hi Natalie, you aren’t alone – after much trial and tribulation I concluded that GABA doesn’t work for me in reducing anxiety. It must do something though, because I found it works great in relief of headaches on the rare occasion I get them. I guess this would indicate that my anxiety is not caused by GABA issues.
Wishing you well on your healing journey. 🙂
Hi! Found your amazing website a couple of days ago while researching my MTHRFR “mutations”. I have one question regarding all the very sound nutritional and supplement advice, which I am so ready to implement. I tapered off two-three years of benzodiazepine use (not consistent use but certainly for longer than a few weeks at a time). I’ve been off the meds for about 8 weeks now, and still don’t feel 100%. I believe GABA deficiency is my problem but I’m wondering if I should start
supplementation now while I’m still in withdrawal. Will the protocol help my current symptoms? Also want to try the Vitamin B6 as I’ve always had social anxiety which got worse after my first panic attack.
Valerie
I have my clients get nutritionally sound before working with their doctor on a taper but many are in your situation and do benefit by addressing deficiencies and imbalances. Glad you’re enjoying my site! My book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” (on Amazon here http://amzn.to/2nFbVXY) maps our my entire nutritional program so you can get to the root causes of why you were anxious to start.
Trudy
Can you show an indication of what optimal thyroid test results should reflect this is so confusing to all and Dr’s do not really look into it all. I just mean that what range should make one request a trail of medication from their MD
Thanks Trudi
Trudy
If one has been using 5 hpt to reduce an antidepressant and 5 HPT starts to not agree with that person (suppressing appetite to much) went from 50 to 100 HPT go the antidepressant down from 50 to 25 but had no appetite, an one just immediately stop the 5 HPT or do you have to wean off and when to stop the 5hpt can you just increase your antidepressant but up until you find another course of action as I decreased 5 HPT back to 50 but I am experiencing
anxiety and drop in mood Thank you Trudy for all your input
Carol
The amino acids do not need to be weaned or tapered.
Hi – Trudy you prefer using Tryptophan to 5-HPT can you explain why.
Also Trudy if one is a female -60 years old – 4 ft 10 and 110 pounds would one use dosages for a child or an adult or does that not matter.
Is it feasible that a person could be on 25 pristiq (which is time released antidepressant) and find that 50 HPT is helping but when they increase from 50 it is not so positive. Most Drs want to get you to 300 5HPT before further reducing the meds hence the size and weight question
Hi Trudy if one is a female -60 years old – 4 ft 10 and 110
pounds would one use dosages for a child or an adult or does that not matter.
Is it feasible that a person could be on 25 pristiq (which is time released antidepressant) and find that 50 HPT is helping but when they increase from 50 it is not so positive. Most Drs want to get you to 300 5HPT before further reducing the meds hence the size and weight question
Hi Trudy,
Thanks for all the work you have done in this field. I have only just found out I have Pyroluria, and have been on my supplements through the advice of a Intergrated GP here in Perth, Western Australia. I am on 150mg BG, 50mg P5P and 50mg Zinc Picolinate. I am also take 400mg SAMe (Before breakfast on an empty stomach). I would like to know how much evening primrose oil to take, I have bought some capsules that are 1000mg, but it says that only contains 100mg of the GLA.Is one a day enough?
It has only been two months, so I know these are early days, but when am I likely to have my dreams come back? and should i maybe ask my GP if i should increase the B6. i am a small guy, only 64kg, so I know supplements are based on weight.
I still have a very low appetite and crave caffeine to get me going and to complete my assignments. I am in my final year of my Bachelor of Health Science majoring in Nutrition and Health Promotion, so i really want to conquer my social anxiety and fear of public speaking so I too can spread the word about food, nutrients and anxiety.
Well done on your work! much appreciated.
Sincerely, Nick 🙂
Nick
The pyroluria supps are not weight based – some people need more and some less. Pleasant dreams typically come back in a few weeks. 1300mg is typical starting amount for EPO.
With caffeine craving I’d look into adrenal issues too
Good luck with your studies!
Dear trudy,
You are greatly helpful:)
I have anxiety and im claustrophobic..i watched your youtube and understood i should take magnesium..zinc..b complex and tryptophan..is that correct? Can you please confirm or otherwise advise.thank you
DA
I’m sorry to hear but I can’t consult via the blog. We are all unique and can different root causes so I have clients do the amino acid questionnaire and a trial of the aminos. I also look for other root causes like low zinc, adrenal issues, stress, leaky gut etc. I highly recommend getting my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” and following the plan (on Amazon here) http://amzn.to/2nipWGY or educate yourself via all the articles on my blog.
Hi Trudy,
My husband has a real issue with anxiety and low grade depression the last few years and is open to trying anything but he has the MtHFR gene mutation. I’ve heard that this changes what works well. Any insight into that issue you have would be greatly appreciated.
Jere
Jere
Having the MTHFR gene mutation doesn’t mean it’s expressing or even causing issues. If we determine it is for a client we address with diet, lifestyle (like detox support) and additional methylfolate (for some it’s too much, for some a small amount is fine). Whether or not it is causing issues I still proceed with an assessment of brain chemical imbalance, a trial of the amino acids and all the other changes (like diet, gut health, adrenals, other deficiencies etc)
Hi Trudy, I wasn’t sure where to post this info I’m bringing to you. Its about Oxytocin. I have tried this but it was given to me to be used vaginally and I didn’t notice anything using it. So I did a lot of research on it. I came up with a pharmacy located in Colorado. They have a patent on a tablet that works thru the digestion. My doc wasn’t aware of this, so I gave her info and we ordered it. It will be awhile before I get it but will update you when I try it. I did talk to the pharmacist and she said its good stuff and works great for anxiety, autism, ptsd etc. I’m sure you know all the benefits. The name of the pharmacy is Belmar Compounding Pharmacy and I’m sure they would be glad to talk to anyone about this. FYI Well, you may already know about it!!! O well just thought I would throw this into the mix….:)
Hi Kaye
Thanks for sharing – please do keep us posted . I’ve blogged quite a bit about oxytocin – here is one http://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/oxytocin-for-social-anxiety-pyroluria-depression/ If you search the blog you’ll find more.
The interview I did with Dr Woeller on oxytocin in season 4 was fascinating http://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/anxiety-low-cholesterols-oxytocin/ The link to low cholesterol is an interesting one. I’m curious what your total cholesterol is? And how you score on the pyroluria questionnaire? http://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/pyroluria-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/
Dear Trudy,
I have just acquired some Source Naturals GABA calm. I have recently realised that my constant panic is almost certainly LOW GABA. It is very physical, wakes me out of sleep, occurs within 5-5 minutes after lying down, when I am concentrating etc. etc.
I was dx with severe panic at menopause which was crippling and put on Effexor 75mg which I have reduced to 37.5mg again!! I carefully came off it tapering extremely slowly and weeks later BAM.
I have ME and have been on Clonazepam for sleep as well for a long time. I have been able to systematically reduce my dose.
I really would like to substitute these medications with GABA and my question is it OK to trial a small dose while I am taking low doses of these meds
Many Thanks
Maggie
Maggie
I use GABA and other nutrients while my clients are still on these types of medications but I do a lot more too. We address ALL possibly underlying factors BEFORE they even start to taper – so blood sugar, gluten, the gut, the adrenals, the sex hormones and so.
It’s also important to be aware that tapering benzodiazepines needs to be done extremely slowly and that taper side-effects are common but being nutritionally in a good place before tapering does help tremendously.
That being said GABA and the other aminos are wonderful for immediate relief so I always use them from day 1.
Maggie L
Have you added the supplements and how are you fairing
Thanks so much Trudy. I have an excellent ME specialist here in Melbourne Australia who checks all the above and is very involved in ME/CFS research especially the microbiome. I am already gluten/dairy free and on thyroid hormone.
I am actively tapering down my antidepressant again and will also now be able to taper the Clonazepam even further.
My immediate reaction to the GABA has been amazing, I started at half the recommended dose three times daily and my panic/hot sweats are already reducing DRAMATICALLY.
I am so excited that I finally have a handle on this issue which has bugged me for years. I have been following your posts and webinars for some time and so grateful that you add so much to people like myself. I have had ME/(CFS hate that term)for 40 years.
Many thanks again
Maggie
Maggie
Wonderful to hear about the GABA response!
Hi Trudy! This thread wont let me respond directly under your response, so hope you see this. I have taken your Pyroluria quiz and scored( with both common and uncommon symptoms) a 25. So at that time was tested through the urine and my pyrroles were normal at 11 and ref. range was 0-20. My zinc was normal and was copper. About my cholesterol, the lowest of my life was when I first had anxiety in 2004 and it was 160 but since then it wavers from 200-230, 230 is what it has been all my life. I would have to dig some more to get total chol. figures. Don’t have it done often. I do have your book about pyroluria and not sure that I have it and how do you rule it out except for the testing? Thank you for thinking of this tho. and I do take B6. SO how do you know if you have it if you cant rely on testing? Or can you. Sorry I haven’t replied sooner, as my email provider has been being naughty!!!! had to have them come in and try to fix it but not sure it is. groan….
Kaye
I don’t rely on the pyroluria urine test because of false negatives. I use the questionnaire and response to the supplements.
Total cholesterol 160 and below has been shown to be an issue http://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/total-cholesterol-too-low-anxiety-and-depression-women/
Thanks for letting us know about the blog comments functionality – we’re looking for a new plugin to handle comments.
Ok so I’m going back to your book and do the protocol to see if there is improvement. Ive taken zinc in a separate supplement but will get some of that. With hubbie dealing cancer my systems down and got cold and now ears are filling again. don’t want to do antibiotics so have turned to goldenseal/echinacia mix hoping that will ease the fluid. I have had this once before but since you cant tell if its bacterial or virus, I’m going with something I hope will clear both and topped this off with bladder infection which I’m treating with d-mannose. I had vertigo really bad with last infection and am setting some whoo whoos in the morning when I get up. Thought it was related to high cortisol but who know???? luv K
Hello Trudy
I have been reading all about amino acids and I found Doc Parsley’s Sleep Formula online. It contains pH GABA. I have heard of GABA but not pH GABA. I prefer natural ingredients where available, is pH GABA natural? Do you recommend its use?Main ingredients include: L-Trytophan, GABA (as phGABA), 5-Hydroxytrytophan, Melatonin.Other Ingredients:Xylitol, Citric Acid, Natural Flavors, Stevia 80% Glycosides, Natural Colors.
Thanks for your help,
Jacqueline
from England, UK
Jacqueline
I assume it’s pharmaGABA or phenibut which I don’t like https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/gaba-for-anxiety-instead-of-phenibut/ I also use individual amino acids so we can adjust up or down as needed. Also with a proprietary formula like this you don’t know how much you are getting which is less than ideal
Hi Trudy
I heard you speak a while ago and mention tryptophan as good for the type of anxiety with low confidence, worrying about people not liking you etc.
My husband is currently suffering from this (it’s his pattern but particularly bad at the moment). He is also having sleep issues so a vicious cycle.
We are in Australia where apparently you can’t get tryptophan so I bought L-tryptophan at a sports store but apparently it’s not the same so I shouldn’t bother?
Would 5htp do the job or is there anything else you can recommend?
Thanks
Nicky
Nicky
I would trial the tryptophan that is available in Australia and then trial 5-HTP and if neither of those work order some Lidtke tryptophan and trial that
Hello Trudy,
I finally found where I could ask my questions
I listened to your presentation on the vitamin summit and found that you had given quite alot of interesting information. One thing that I noted was said is that GABA is not vegan/ vegetarian. I am a vegan and was wondering whether there are additional options for those like myself who are vegans,
Bev
I’m not sure where you heard that GABA is not vegan/ vegetarian.
Can a 5 year old take GABA and Tryptophan together? And how much is too much? She has severe anxiety, negativity and ruminating thoughts.
Hi Trudy: what kind of gaba should I take for epilepsy? I also take CBD oil but my daughter says if it doesn’t have MCT oil I am wasting my money. What are your thoughts? Thanks! Mary Jane.
I have also heard that CBD oil is good for anxiety also it will be interesting to hear what Trudy has to say
Mary Jane
I recommend that anyone with epilepsy who wants to use GABA works with a practitioner well versed in epilepsy and the amino acids and someone who would recommend GABA rather than phenibut (http://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/gaba-for-anxiety-instead-of-phenibut/).
I have not seen any evidence to show that MCT oil should be used with CBD oil. I’d be more concerned about the quality of the CBD oil and if it’s providing benefits.
Hi Trudy,
I’ve been dealing with insomnia, tremors, and heart pounding in the ears for about 15 months. I’ve been to lots of Drs and have been taken off thyroid medication and have tried various anxiety and sleep Rx’s. Nothing worked well and most of them made things worse. I’m wondering if there is an amino acid or combination of amino acids that I could try to see if I can get some sleep. I’ve tried several at the recommendation of various Drs with very little success. Can you recommend someplace to start doing trials and how to do the trials of amino acids to help with tremors and insomnia? I know you can’t do diagnosing, but any recommendations you can give would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Rita
I heard taurine an anime acid 1000mg taken with NAG 600 mg taken before bed helps with insomnia. Due to racing thoughts. It helps me a little.
Rita
I’m sorry to hear this. If this insomnia is due to low serotonin or low GABA I do trials of tryptophan and/or GABA, one at a time. You can find those links above in this blog. My book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” (here on Amazon http://amzn.to/2kptFWm) has an entire chapter on the amino acids with all the details and dosage information as well as precautions. I recommend reading this before experimenting with the amino acids.
If the insomnia is due to high cortisol (based on saliva testing) then Seriphos is the product I use with clients https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/seriphos-original-formula-anxiety-insomnia-cortisol/
With a client with tremors I’d also look into low B12 as a possible factor, plus residual side-effects from anxiety and sleep medications.
> Hello Trudy
>
> I wonder if you could help me please?
>
> My niece Lisa who is 43 and has been suffering from anxiety issues
> for a number of years now and has been taking antidepressants which
> make her even worse! I heard your talk on the Sweet Freedom seminar
> as I myself have an addiction to sugar! When listening to you speak
> it was as if you were talking directly about my niece!
>
> I sent her the link and she has listened a number of times now, has
> bought and read your book and is on the second time around reading
> through it. She is making the necessary changes to turn her life
> around. She reduced her antidepressant drugs and no longer takes
> them but is still not totally ok. She has been taking Trytophan but
> feels this is not quite enough she needs the GABA especially to help
> some of the anxiety problems still.
>
> The biggest problems she is experiencing is obtaining the GABA Calm
> in the UK! One that is of good quality. She has read the recommended
> one on your site but they do not ship to the UK. She had found
> another company ‘i.herb’ but they are saying they dont ship it either!
>
>
> So the dilemma is could you recommend where she buys the GABA Calm
> here in the UK and a brand that is reputable please that you feel
> would be suitable?. There are lots of GABA out there but finding a
> good quality one that is available her in the UK becoming a bit of a
> minefield!
>
> Thanking you in advance
> Kindest regards
>
Hi SW
Yes getting supplements shipped internationally can be a hassle.
I have looked at the Gaba calm in iherb and it looks as though they are only refusing to ship to the UK if you choose the first shipping method. The other shipping methods seem to be OK. Have a go and see if that is the case.
If not then you can use a ‘freight forwader’. I have done this in the past. This is a company in the US that you can get the supplements shipped to and then they will forward on to you in the UK. There are quite a few companies that do this but I have used shipito.com in the past and have been very happy with their service.
I am from the UK living in the US and I have found that Douglas Labs Gaba is very good as I am battling the same issues as your niece, I think you may be able to go on Amazon look at it and order it and have it shipped, now you may have to go onto Amazon USA and order and put your UK address in for shipping as a gift”””
I have done the reverse of this to get things I wanted and USed Amazon UK and had it sent to me at my USA address.
I have know what you are all going through believe me.
Hope this helps a little
Hi,
I need help for my 10 and 16 year old who have anxiety. I have your book but am still reading it. We are GF DF and Soy free. We only use GF bread for breakfast and its only 1 slice. They eat fruits, salads, avocados, chicken, beef etc. We don’t do sugar and use honey instead. But the anxiety is still present. It’s different in my younger one compared with older one. My 10 year old is very rigid mentally and my older one is the worrier and gets overwhelmed with even little extra homework. How would you go about implementing a protocol for them. Is there a section in the book for kids/teens.
Myself I take 5HTP with B complex which has helped but I still feel depressed, have low self esteem, anger, irritability, no focus what so ever, poor memory (because Im just passive most of the time. (have a hard time reading your book and remembering). What wold you advise?
GMO in the bread may hurt. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats/corn/rice. Organic brown rice is low in gluten and may be ok. Sugar even in fruit may cause swelling. Low sugar fruit may help. Low oxygen in the brain may cause depression/anxiety/no sleep/obsessing/panic/suicidal thoughts. Low Vit D3 may make people sensitive. 5000IU of Vit D3 and sunlight help me. Vit B12 methylcobalamin with intrinsic factor help stress. Stress may steal Zn/B vitamins and progesterone. Coenzymated B vitamins may help. Folate helped give me more circulation. Anger may mean the liver needs detoxing. Sweating/Far Infrared Sauna may help detox. Passive due to being sick may happen.
This is what I do that helps heal my gut lining/rebuild my cells to burn oxygen which helps depression/anxiety etc.. LDN is less than $1 a day and helps block hidden gluten. The link is the longer version of what I do. I eat nothing with a label…no premade gluten free food since they may have 20ppm of gluten. Best wishes.
No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO/food with a label etc. and vitamins/good oils/minerals/probiotic…. LDN and detoxing help me. Vit D3 5000IU, zinc 50mg if detoxing, 2000mg fish oil, 2000mg evening primrose oil. 2000 mg lecithin, Phosphatidylserine/DMAE, krill oil, CLA, Coenzyme Q10, Rhodiola, Mg citrate 400mg, Vit C, 5000mcg of biotin, 10,000IU of Vit A, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and Now brand- Super enzymes with meals, dairy free strong probiotic, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind/intrinsic factor kind…. MTHF folate, coenyzme Q10, rhodiola, may help brain/body/thyroid/depression/immune system and more. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye/corn…oats has gluten with avenin…and there is a small amount of gluten in rice. GMO corn/soy/canola oil may hurt. Amour thyroid maybe needed since gluten may make antibodies to the thyroid. Coenzymated B vitamins far from synthetic kind made me calm.
Sunlight (helps the immune system and helps to heal the gut lining),exercise, organic food, good water..not tap water, cooking by scratch pure food….. no food in a box/bag/premade/label/restaurant which may help avoid hidden gluten. Certified gluten free food may have 20ppm of gluten…too much. Nuts not sold in the shell/meat basting/some spices/food with a label/ lotion/make up etc. may have hidden gluten. One restaurant cooks special for me…rice/veg/tea/extra mushrooms (no meat since the woks may have MSG/gluten in them).
EDTA/DMPS IV chelations from an Alternative doctor, 600mg of cilantro, organic sulfur, Now brand- Detox support, Far Infrared Sauna and more may help detox. Hair tests show good minerals and heavy metals. Heavy metals can block thyroid and other chemical reactions in the body/brain.
LDN may help block hidden gluten/heal the gut lining and help the immune system, but the Celiac diet is still needed. 100% no gluten..no hidden or microscopic gluten may help. Cutting back on gluten or cheating by eating gluten hurts the immune system. It may take 1 1/2 months to heal the gut lining after getting hidden gluten. HCl and enzymes with meals and gluten enzymes help me. There are now gluten enzymes also a person may use that may help, but LDN helps block gluten in the air/on the skin and all day long.
Amour thyroid has some T3 and Calcitonin. Synthroid is only T4…may not convert to T3. Zn/Se/enough iron/strong probiotic may help convert T4 to T3 for thyroid.
Alternative doctors/chiropractors/acupuncturists and more may help with health/vitamins etc.
Books: No grain No Pain, Wheat Belly, Grain Brain, Dangerous Grains and The Autoimmune Fix and more explain Celiac. Peter Osborne/Tom O’Bryan on Facebook/Youtube.
Longer version:
http://articles.mercola.com/members/Shasha/default.aspx
Hello Trudy,
Your website and blog are amazing !
Wanted to ask you ,for GAD and part OCD , if its possible to mix Curcumin , Tryptophan , Inositol together with active form of B Complex , Magnesium Bisglycinate , MagTein , Omega 3 ,Vitamin C , Vitamin D, Zinc , Selenium.
Would you add to this mix : Theanine , Ashwagandha , Bacopa , Gotu Kola , Rhodiola , Ginko Biloba ,NAC , Phopsoditilserine ?
What stack would you recomend and at what dosage for Anxiety with all of this nutritients and herbs?
Especially anxiety is very high late afternoon/early evening and sometimes in the morning right after wake up
Thank you very much in advance !
Depression/anxiety/no sleep/obsessing/panic/suicidal thoughts can be due to gluten which can hurt the gut lining so less nutrients absorb…then cells are not made right to work right to burn oxygen. I can’t have turmeric/curcumin. Each person is different.
This is what I do that helps me:No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO/food with a label etc. and vitamins/good oils/minerals/probiotic…. LDN and detoxing help me. Vit D3 5000IU, zinc 50mg if detoxing, 2000mg fish oil, 2000mg evening primrose oil. 2000 mg lecithin, Phosphatidylserine/DMAE, krill oil, CLA, Coenzyme Q10, Rhodiola, Mg citrate 400mg, Vit C, 5000mcg of biotin, 10,000IU of Vit A, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and Now brand- Super enzymes with meals, dairy free strong probiotic, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind/intrinsic factor kind…. MTHF folate, coenyzme Q10, rhodiola, may help brain/body/thyroid/depression/immune system and more. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye/corn…oats has gluten with avenin…and there is a small amount of gluten in rice. GMO corn/soy/canola oil may hurt. Amour thyroid maybe needed since gluten may make antibodies to the thyroid. Coenzymated B vitamins far from synthetic kind made me calm.
Sunlight (helps the immune system and helps to heal the gut lining),exercise, organic food, good water..not tap water, cooking by scratch pure food….. no food in a box/bag/premade/label/restaurant which may help avoid hidden gluten. Certified gluten free food may have 20ppm of gluten…too much. Nuts not sold in the shell/meat basting/some spices/food with a label/ lotion/make up etc. may have hidden gluten. One restaurant cooks special for me…rice/veg/tea/extra mushrooms (no meat since the woks may have MSG/gluten in them).
EDTA/DMPS IV chelations from an Alternative doctor, 600mg of cilantro, organic sulfur, Now brand- Detox support, Far Infrared Sauna and more may help detox. Hair tests show good minerals and heavy metals. Heavy metals can block thyroid and other chemical reactions in the body/brain.
LDN may help block hidden gluten/heal the gut lining and help the immune system, but the Celiac diet is still needed. 100% no gluten..no hidden or microscopic gluten may help. Cutting back on gluten or cheating by eating gluten hurts the immune system. It may take 1 1/2 months to heal the gut lining after getting hidden gluten. HCl and enzymes with meals and gluten enzymes help me. There are now gluten enzymes also a person may use that may help, but LDN helps block gluten in the air/on the skin and all day long.
Amour thyroid has some T3 and Calcitonin. Synthroid is only T4…may not convert to T3. Zn/Se/enough iron/strong probiotic may help convert T4 to T3 for thyroid.
Alternative doctors/chiropractors/acupuncturists and more may help with health/vitamins etc.
Books: No grain No Pain, Wheat Belly, Grain Brain, Dangerous Grains and The Autoimmune Fix and more explain Celiac. Peter Osborne/Tom O’Bryan on Facebook/Youtube.
Longer version:
http://articles.mercola.com/members/Shasha/default.aspx
Hi Steve
All of these nutrients can be beneficial in various situations and can often help with anxiety and OCD. I can’t offer specific advice via the blog and even when I working one on one with someone I don’t ever consider a “stack” of nutrients like this and nor would we know what dosage would work. We start with questionnaires and trial of the amino acids GABA and tryptophan and then look at other nutritional deficiencies.
If it’s mental anxiety late afternoon/early evening that makes me think low serotonin and early morning can sometimes be high cortisol (saliva testing will show this). Inositol is very helpful for OCD if tryptophan isn’t enough.
All this plus the dietary and gut approaches outlined in my book
Thanks for the answer Trudy !
My anxiety is definetly low serotonin and probably sometimes elevated cortisol.
10 years ago I was on Paroxetine 20mg (SSRI) for 1 year , and took off all my anxiety , bring me back to normal life , 10 years free of anxiety , but in the last few months I notice that come back. So this time I want to go more naturaly as possible. When started in March 2017 , I started with Rhodiola and Aswaganda , together with omega , multi vitamin multi mineral , sometimes mix from valerian ,hops & passiflora. It took some part of the Anxiety , but far from switiching it off. Now I stoped all the herbs ,take probiotics every day in form of Kefir , and 2 weeks ago I start to take again Omega 3 , multi mineral and multi vitamin and I started Tryptophan peptides 500mg at night before sleeping , I add also Mag Tein and Magneisum Bis Glycinate and some extra Zinc and B6 . I start to fell a bit calmer but need to experiment more. I want to add 500mg Curcumin with Bioperine and Inositol , just I’m afraid from the serotonin syndrome , because I read somewhere that Curcumin is also a mild MAOI. Do you know if its safe in this dosages to combine Curcumin , Tryptophan and Inositol , and if you have some suggestion about the dosage and timing , I would appreciate a lot !
At this moment per day I take :
Tryptophan peptide at night before sleeping 500mg
B6 – 3 X 10mg
Magnesium L Threonate – 1 capsule (which is around 50mg magnesium elemental )
Magnesium BisGlycinate – 200-300mg
Zinc – 12 mg
Multi Vitamin – Multi Mineral – 1 capsule per day ( all vit and minerals in RDA)
Omega 3 – 180mg EPA , 120 DHA x 3
Vit C – 500mg per day
B complex – 3 x 1 pill
I have L Theanine and True Calm (Now) , but I’m not using them , don’t know if I need to add this one as well.
The question is if its safe to add the curcumin 1 X day 500mg + Bioperine and how much Inostiol to add?
Steve
I really can’t offer specific feedback via the blog
Hi I’m glad I found this. I’m working with an amino acid therapist. I had a panic attack last year started on a regimen vitamins probiotics, gaba and l tryptophan. I took about 4 or 5 days. I got better. A year later now I have it again, panic attacks started off about obsessive worry. Started on regime again. It’s been about a week. I’ve upped gaba to about 500mg 2x a day. chewable and 1,000mg tryptophan 2 x a day. And 2,000mg at night still not sleeping well. I’ve had to take Ativan 4 or 5 nights because I panic I can’t go to sleep. Not sure what to do now. Just give it more time? I emailed my therapist she said add calms forte and true calm I have but still no luck. Also I’ve been on ketogenic diet for 3 moths. Idk if that has anything to do with it or not. Dr gave me trazedone he doesn’t want me taking Ativan. I don’t want to be on meds. My labs are fine Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Rachel
It’s hard to know if the ketogenic diet has anything to do with it. I’d be more concerned about the effects of the Ativan which can make anxiety worse. These are the root causes of anxiety/panic attacks I work through with clients https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/60-nutritional-biochemical-causes-of-anxiety/
Hi Trudy,
Wow finally someone understands anxiety!
Unfortunately I live in UK…
I finished a short AAS cycle in June 2018 and now i’m experiencing anxiety. I m sure that I messed up my brain chemistry… However after plenty blood panels the only thing is high prolactin…
I’m taking GABA in the evening and triptophan in the morning.
Do you have any other reccomandation?
Kind regards and lots of respect.
Leo
Leo
Is AAS cycle anabolic androgenic steroids? We adjust GABA and tryptophan up based on symptoms. GABA is typically used through the day and tryptophan from midafternoon. It’s all explained in the amino acid chapter in my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution”. If cortisol is high then we use Seriphos. Best is to work with a functional medicine practitioner and get saliva testing of adrenals/cortisol and DHEA and saliva or urine testing of sex hormones. Other medical reasons (such as a tumor) need to be ruled out with the high prolactin.
Thanks for the reply!
I will definitely buy your book because I like your approach.
Yes, to answer your question I used anabolic steroids for 2 months to improve my physic.
I experienced anxiety both during the cycle and after… now 6 months have passed and anxiety is more manageable but still overwhelming sometimes.
I feel a constant sensation of physical anxiety.
I checked all the hormones and they are all fine in the normal range, including DHEA, even
if a bit low. In the next 10 days I will get an MRI done to scan my brain for tumors.
My doctor told me that I simply need more time and my brain will reach homeostasis. However I hope that by following the advices in your book I can feel better sooner!
Do you have any particular advice for my situation?
I would be delighted to hear your opinion.
thanks a lot
Leo
In this situation I do trials of the amino acids based on symptoms and as I mentioned before adjust up and down based on unique needs. I also address other factors like no gluten, no caffeine etc – anything that can increase anxiety
Hi Trudy,
I have been taking GABA and Tryptophan with a little tyrosine for over 15 years. Over the years, I decreased dosages. Recently I have dizziness that is constant. I have been to neurologist, ENT, and they have not found anything. Can the dizziness be caused by an imbalance between Serotonin and Norepinephrine/dopamine? My thought are that I need more tyrosine. Driving is difficult and even taking a shower makes me feel like I will fall down. My only relief is laying down. Walking is difficult too especially standing in one place. Also, a general question, can anxiety cause constant dizziness like this? Thank you and I appreciate your help.
Is it dizziness or difficult maintaining your balance? If it is a balance problem – consider being screened for Parkinson’s
This sounds like dysautonomia to me. Lots of issues can create dysautonomia. Check out Dysautonomia International for more information. The dizziness may reflect something about blood pooling in your legs. If so, your brain may not be getting enough oxygen. You may wish to take some blood pressure or heart rate readings and see if there are any differences. Take a reading after lying down for 5 minutes, then stand for 1 minute and take a reading , take another reading after 3 minutes and then after 5 minutes. Often cardiologists address dysautonomias.
Hello, thank you. It feels like Dysautonomia I wish i knew for sure because it seems like it could be other things too. I started seeing a functional Medicine doctor. So far I have two parasites blastocystis and d. Fragilis and have high cortisol , prevotelli Copri is high. I have anxiety depression and fatigue and insomnia. Can the parasites cause Dysautonomia if that is what it is and all these symptoms? To make things more complicated, my b6 levels were 3 times upper limit of normal from taking only 50 mg b6 for 10 years. So maybe all this is b6 toxicity?
Hello Mark,
You write that you take GABA, tryptophan and tyrosine and that you have been decreasing your doses. Interesting to consider that dizziness is associated with low GABA and low serotonin and that balance problems are associated with low dopamine (tyrosine raises dopamine). Perhaps a trial of gradually raising back doses (one amino acid at a time) would be worthwhile using the guidelines in Trudy’s book so that it is done safely. Some folks do better on tryptophan while others raise serotonin more effectively with 5HTP.
Low adrenal function and low blood pressure can cause dizziness/fainting. So an evaluation of adrenal function and blood pressure would be helpful. Saliva tests are useful to assess adrenal function and cortisol levels. Evaluation for ortho static hypotension should be included: checking for a drop in blood pressure when going from a lying/sitting to standing position. Taking a hot shower can cause dilation of blood vessels and lower blood pressure even more.
Consuming adequate amount of unrefined salt (Celtic, Himalayan) is important for blood pressure as is sufficient water intake/ hydration.
Adequate vitamin C and B vitamins (especially B5) are critical for adrenal function.
When checking adrenal function, also helpful to assess thyroid function as they are very much connected.
Adequate and balanced minerals are also key. A hair analysis can provide insight into mineral status (and also an analysis of adrenal & thyroid function). Many folks are low on magnesium, potassium, selenium, etc.
Worth evaluating vitamin D and iodine levels too.
Health issues are usually multi factorial and therefore checking out multiple systems is best. You are wise to consider such things as B6 toxicity. An organic acids test (OAT) can help assess B6 levels, serotonin levels and many other factors.
Doing the basics first is a good starting point: drinking enough water , eating enough mineral rich foods such as unrefined salt, avoiding too much caffeine.
You are asking excellent questions. Wishing you well! E
Thank you I appreciate the information!
Mark
I have not seen these amino acids causing the kind of dizziness you describe but the best way to know is to stop and reintroduce them one at a time. GABA can lower blood pressure and too much of any amino acid can cause adverse effects and mild dizziness is one of them.
I’d rule out factors that are easiest to address first: adrenal issues and low blood sugar, low B12 (test B12, MMA and homocysteine), medication side-effects, gluten and/or caffeine issues, and low vitamin D. Then I’d look into Lyme disease and co-infections, neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, effects of heavy metals like lead and mercury, toxic mold and effects from a head past injury.
I’ve also referred clients to a practitioner for Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) https://vestibular.org/understanding-vestibular-disorder/treatment/treatment-detail-page and to a functional neurologist https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-role-of-functional-neurology-the-cerebellum-and-brain-balance-exercises-for-anxiety-depression-social-communication-adhd-and-obsessions/
Thank you Trudy, I do have the 2 parasites and high cortisol. Can these be causing the dizziness? It really does feel like a Dysautonomia because even watching tv or being on the computer is uncomfortable. It’s like my eyes don’t adjust.
Mark
Since you mention TV and computer work, I realized I forgot to mention EMFs and the effects of WiFi/modems etc. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/wifi-modem-with-a-public-hotspot-causes-seizures-vertigo-headaches-insomnia-and-heart-palpitations-in-a-woman-with-a-history-of-west-nile-virus/
I really can’t provide specific feedback on your condition via the comments. As with any condition, a thorough functional workup should be done.
Hey Mark
You should see a neurologist for Parkinson’s.
You seem to have the classic characteristics s symptoms…At least rule it out.
It wouldn’t surprise me if parasites and/or B6 toxicity could create a situation where dysautonomia becomes a symptom, especially if either contribute to some kind of mast cell reactivity or impact thyroid functioning in any way.
I cope with dysautonomia. Because my dysautonomia is about sympathetic withdrawal my biggest helps for it has been adderall, salt stick (electrolytes) and avoiding supplements that lead to vasodilation. Maybe your functional MD can refer you to a doctor who does ANSAR testing. Vanderbilt University is probably one of the best places to have a consult.
Hi Robin,
Thank you for the information. Wish I could go to Vanderbilt but driving is difficult. Can you please explain more about sympathetic withdrawal what it is and what causes it?
Hi Mark
Here is the best resource to learn about dysautonomia: http://www.dysautonomiainternational.org/page.php?ID=122
No one has ever said what is definitely causing my sympathetic withdrawal. I can also have parasympathetic withdrawal. So, something is interfering with effective switching/engagement of my ANS. We suspect some of the triggers for it are my autoimmune disorder, mast cell reactivity, Ehlers Danlos and a compressed c-spine. I’ve never been to Vanderbilt, but if I was becoming disabled I’d go to the place where the research is being done.
I hope you get the support you need.
Hi Mark,
I used to live in Nashville . Vanderbilt is useless.
If you can, go see Dr.Houston FM Md , at St Thomas, not sure if he’s still practicing…
Last resort , Dr Reisman in Brentwood.
Good luck.
Mark—
One other area to explore with your functional medicine MD is thiamine sufficiency. Some forms of dysautonomia are associated with B1 (thiamine) issues: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/28531358/.
Also, the latest chronic fatigue research is finding some orthostatic intolerance issues may be helped with the medicine mestinon: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/28531358/ and https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/orthostatic-hypotension/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352553
Health Rising is an excellent site for information about anything related to chronic fatigue or concerning neurological symptoms which folks in the allopathic or functional communities are unable to get a handle on.
Hoping your journey to greater well being gets easier.
Robin
Thanks for sharing and being supportive here. And yes low thiamine is one possible deficiency that needs to be considered. As with any condition, a thorough functional workup should be done.
Hi Robin,
Really appreciate the information. I’m in the process of waiting for more of the lab work to come in.
Thank you so much,
Mark
Hi Trudy ,You and your information and your book have saved my life!! I was unlucky enough to hit menopause and go thru severe anxiety. I read your book and did the gaba and tryptophan and it has helped so much !! I switched from l tryptophan to 5 tho and feel like it works but I’ve been reading if you take it alone it can deplete dopamine levels? Is this true and if so would the tryptophan be better if I don’t want to take tyrosine because of danger to the thyroid hormones?? Thank you again you are so awesome.
5 htp
Penny
So glad the tryptophan and GABA have helped. Some people do better on tryptophan and some better on 5-HTP. I have not found either to deplete dopamine. Tyrosine is only an issue with Graves disease /overactive thyroid
Hi Trudy,
I am finding that 500mg of GABA during the day and at night is helping a bit, but I still am experiencing muscle twitches throughout my body from time to time. Would it be ok to go the GABA dosage to see if the twitches totally go away? I have Gaba Calm that’s 750mg so have been cutting in half. I also just bought the tryptophan but not sure if I see results from it. It’s mostly physical anxiety that is more prominent though I wake up during the night and have repetitive thoughts. I am on your waitlist for a consultation- fingers crossed! I have been reading about natural progesterone cream to curb adrenaline and stared using it and it seems to be helping me as well. Thank u tons.
Hello Tara
I had a bad spell of muscle twitches (https://www.healthline.com/health/hypnagogic-jerk) about 6 years ago triggered by extreme stress and exhaustion. I found magnesium really helped and I managed to navigate through that awful period and overcome.
However I was struck down by this again recently due to another very stressful and exhausting period triggered by the vaccine, but this time I tried this awesome magnesium product and it made a huge difference, not only to the twitches (hypnic jerks) but my energy levels and it really helped with sleep too. Check it out:
https://bioptimizers.co.uk/product/magnesium-breakthrough
This is magnesium on another level! I don’t think there is any magnesium product out there quite like it.
Good luck on your journey…
Hi Trudy,
I don’t ever see you recommend CBD, do you have any thoughts on it? Also, are the effects of tryptophan cumulative? Or will you see all the benefit you’ll reap within the first dosage.
Thanks for all of your work!
Paige
CBD can work well with both serotonin and GABA support. With tryptophan (and the other amino acids) benefits are experienced on day one. It is typically continued for 1-12 months to raise levels. At the same time diet, gut health, gluten issues etc are addressed
Thank you so much for replying! I’ve been on tryptophan for almost two months and it’s helped a bit, but not entirely. I have noticed recently I’ve been having frequent Deja Vu. Not sure if it’s related to the tryptophan making me tired, have you heard of this from any clients? There are two theories I’ve read about: one being that Deja Vu is some sort of temporal lobe mini-seizure (terrifying) and one that suggests that it is caused by increased dopamine activity.
I score over 20 on the pyroluria questionnaire and my doctor has put me on Douglas Labs L-tryptophan which includes Vitamin C, riboflavin, Niacin, and B6. He also has given me Ultra G.L.A by Douglas Labs.
If you didn’t already notice, I am a compulsive researcher and get very nervous about putting foreign substances in my body. Since reading that GLA can cause temporal lobe seizures (only a few studies) I have been terrified to take it, especially since I’ve been experiencing this Deja Vu on an almost daily basis.
I will definitely be discussing this with my doctor but was wondering if you had any insight. Thanks again for the amazing work you do and how responsive you are on this blog.
Paige
Interesting about the Deja Vu – this is new to me but I’m intrigued. Please do share links to the research you have gathered. And let me know what your doctor shares.
Also, keep in mind that compulsiveness, being nervous “about putting foreign substances in my body” and feeling terrified is common with low serotonin. I use tryptophan-only products with my clients so we increase based on each person’s unique needs and find the ideal dose. This is not so easily achieved with a combination product.
I won’t be able to see my doctor for a few weeks unfortunately. I am also taking vitamin d3 at 10,000 iu plus 180 mg k2. But the tryptophan is the only new(ish) addition since the onset of deja vu.
Deja Vu & dopamine: https://www.jocn-journal.com/article/S0967-5868(00)90810-5/abstract
Borage oil & seizures: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3724443/
Temporal lobe seizures & deja vu: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3420423/
This has me worried that the tryptophan may be interfering with my dopamine. I’ve tried GABA Calm and I feel good when I first take it, then hours later notice insomnia and headaches. My sleep is hit or miss with tryptophan, I either sleep over ten hours or am up past 3 am then sleeping until 10 at least.
Paige
I did find this possible link with the use of 5-HTP – however she also used carbidopa (a Parkinson’s drug) https://www.researchgate.net/publication/229518731_Recurring_dj_vu_associated_with_5-hydroxytryptophan
With all the coronavirus research I’m doing I’m afraid I don’t have time to get into the deja vu question right now but will come back to it. Please let us know what the doctors says and if the deja vu goes away when the tryptophan is stopped and if it comes back if you add tryptophan back.
The borage oil seizure research is new to me and is the only study I have found. I would love to see more research on this as it’s not something I have see issues with in any of my clients or heard colleagues voice concerns. I hope to see this replicated in an animal study and then human studies so we can be sure it was the borage oil. It’s used extensively for skin conditions, for congestive heart failure (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5500213/) and even with preterm babies (https://www.jpeds.com/article/S0022-3476(04)00071-X/abstract)
GABA Calm leading to headaches/insomnia may be the tyrosine and sugar alcohols. I have clients trial a GABA-only product when this happens.
As I said with tryptophan, a tryptophan-only product makes it easier to titrate up and down as needed
I took 2 – 600mg of GABA under my tongue before bed for a month. It worked wonders, calming me right down and putting me into a good sleep for the night. But after one month, it stopped working. Should I up the dose or do you have any other suggestions?
Thank you!
Charleen
Dr. Kharrazian believes GABA receptors can become desensitized with GABA use but I have not seen this happen with clients. I would also not expect this to happen after a month but anything is possible. It could possibly happen if there has been prior use of benzodiazepines or other meds that work on GABA receptors. I’d like to learn more – does this apply with you? Also, which product and always under the tongue? Have you tried it swallowed? Also 1200mg is a high dose – did less not work?
One way to confirm the GABA receptor theory this is to use GABA precursors so the body makes it’s own GABA – zinc, vitamin B6, magnesium, taurine, lithim. Apex has a product called GABATone with these ingredients https://www.apexenergetics.com/gabatone-active
It’s possible the low GABA issue has resolve and there is another root cause.
Hi Charleen
Which brand of GABA under the tongue do you take?
Thx.
Hi Charleen, the same thing happened to me several years ago and to this day, I have tried it time and again and it doesnt work. I had to find other natural supplements to help. K
That’s so interesting…2-600 mg is 1200 total so that’s super high
Hello Trudy, I am so thankful that I ran into your blog.
I am the proud grandmother of a 12 year old grandson who is high functioning autistic/Aspergers.
His mother and I over the years have done well with agreeing on not placing him on medication, since being diagnosed at 6 years old. Now, we are questioning his symptoms that are becoming more than he can handle.
I reading your information, I see that he seems to fall into low serotonin symptoms:
ANXIETY
Panic attacks
Feeling worried
Obsessive thoughts or behaviors
Perfectionism or being OVERLY CONTROLLING
Irritability
NEGATIVITY
Excessive self-criticism
Low self-esteem and poor self-criticism
Hyperactivity
Anger
We already had been giving him GABA calm, magnesium, and l-theanine, but in low doses (200 mg day).After reading some of your information I am leaning toward l-theanine but with the monitoring of increasing dosing. I truly would love to give this attempt a chance of success…with medication being the last resort. For the quality of his life we want to see his Negativity, Overly controlling and biting his fingernails/cuticles to the point of infections. He picks his face on both temples and under his eyes to disturbing results. I am observing that due to his age, he has raging hormones, along with a great growth spurt and he is having increased difficulties. I feel this is the time to try a different approach.With his symptoms leaning toward low serotonin should we try to add L-tryptophan and GABA or just l-tryptophan in increasing mg?
Thank you!
On the tip of a wish,
Laura
I am so so interested in the response you may receive to your excellent questions
Laura
I’m afraid I can’t consult via the blog. I can say I do start low, with one amino acid and increase until we see expected results. Best is to use the amino acids between meals each day at the same times. We do often use them as needed during increased anxiety/anger/panic too.
Regarding this “biting his fingernails/cuticles to the point of infections. He picks his face on both temples and under his eyes to disturbing results” – you may find this helpful https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/trichotillomania-nac-gaba-tryptophan-inositol-zinc/
My book is a good resource as are other blogs (use the search feature)
Please let us know how it goes with him and don’t forget the diet (with Aspergers…gluten, dairy, soy, oxalates, phenols etc), sleep, nature etc
Trudy
you shared that glycine(colllagen) can produce depression. It did to me.
So does the seriphos (which is amino acid that says its like precursor to glycine) produce glycine and therefore it could cause depression just like if you were taking collagen ?
Glenn
It’s possible Seriphos may make symptoms worse but I have not seen this to be the case
Hi,
I heard your talk on the biology of truama summit, thank you it was great.
When’s the best time to take tryptophan? I want to try it for pmdd depression & anxiety along with accompanied bad/little sleep.
I’ve read it needs to be taken on an empty stomach.
If I take it in the mornings will it make me drowsy for the day? I struggle with having an empty stomach in the evenings as often need to eat something close to bedtime to have the energy to sleep through.
Naomi
Wonderful – thanks for the feedback! Tryptophan is best used mid-afternoon and evening when levels take a dip. It can be used between dinner and a bedtime snack if necessary. When you are new to the amino acids I really do recommend my book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” so you understand exactly how to use them. There is an entire chapter on the amino acids and how to use them.
It also covers other anxiety nutrition solutions like gluten/sugar/caffeine removal (all important for sleep), blood sugar control (often a factor in not being able to sleep through the night) , gut health (can also affect sleep), pyroluria etc and is a great foundation. Remember, it’s the amino acids and diet. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
You may also find this helpful – Tryptophan for PMS: premenstrual dysphoria, mood swings, tension, and irritability https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/tryptophan-for-pms-premenstrual-dysphoria-mood-swings-tension-irritability/
Hi Just wondering if I can take GABA Calm while taking Valdoxan (Agomelatine)
Link to Valdoxan
https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB06594
Thanks
Rom
I am not aware of an interaction but it’s always best to discuss with the prescribing physician.
I wonder if you have come across any research on the relationship between gaba and various brainwaves? I have seen references to gaba being related to alph, theta and gamma brainwaves so I wonder what the whole story is?
And on this theme, have you done any research on using brainwave modulation to help deal with anxiety, e.g with binaural beats, to affect gaba levels in particular, but also the other neurotransmitters you talk about.
Thank you.
Brenda
This is mentioned in a pharmaGABA paper: “GABA significantly increases alpha waves and decreases beta waves compared to water or L-theanine.” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16971751/. I write more about the study here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/pharma-gaba-study-participants-with-an-irrational-fear-of-heights-are-relaxed-and-less-anxious-when-crossing-a-swaying-suspension-bridge/
I have not looked into binaural beats but this paper discusses them in the context of helping anxiety and sleep (with no mention of GABA or serotonin) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6900908/.
Please share what you know about binaural beats and your interest in this area.
Hi! I appreciate the dosing conversation here about the Tryptophan and GABA. I’m trialing with my 7yo and would say I see both of the top two listed types of anxiety. I did your survey and it led me to 5-HTP and GABA. We started 50mg 5-HTP about a week ago and now Im adding in some GABA. These are 100mg candy type. I saw no impact with one and yesterday added a second a few hours later. Would it make more sense to give both together? To see the impact of the increased dose? He’s also on ADHD medication, but it’s the irritability I’m really after right now. Angry and oppositional with a short fuse. Our doc has recommended a mood stabilizer- but I’m willing to try something else first- as long as i don’t crack!
Alicia
With angry and oppositional with a short fuse, we look into low blood sugar (glutamine and diet/protein/health fats help here), accidental gluten exposure, low serotonin (anger and rage issues that look like meltdowns – 5-HTP or tryptophan helps) and also low lithium (nutritional lithium orotate helps).
I like to find the ideal dose of 5-HTP before adding other amino acids.
We also always look at medication side-effects (all of the above is for starters and not a comprehensive list.)
Diet is also always key. My book “The Antianxiety Food Solution” is a great place for the foundations and has a chapter on the amino acids with dosing/timing information. More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/
My online GABA Quickstart group program is helpful when you have questions and need guidance (and moral support/encouragement). More here about the program and purchase info https://www.anxietynutritioninstitute.com/gabaquickstart/
Thank you!! Yes, I read what you wrote about the seratonin vs other types of anxiety and saw him as really presenting with both. So, I started 5-HTP a couple weeks earlier. It’s a 50mg capsule…but I’m not sure that it’s necessarily the right dose… it’s so hard when he’s at school for so much of the day. These behaviors only present at home, which adds another wrench to my observations.
Hi Trudy,
My 8 year old son is highly gifted and has sensory issues ( Sensory seeker) where he touches and pushes others. He also thinks a lot and has anxiety. His sensory issues get worse when he is anxious. We have put him on a 125 mg of Gaba and 200 mg of tryptophan he has around 20 mins after breakfast before going to school. It has helped a little but not as much as we expected.
Should we instead give the Gaba calm and tryptophan 200 mg in the morning when he gets up on an empty stomach and have breakfast after 20 min.
We are doing it mainly for behavior at school. What is the best time to give Gaba calm and tryptophan ?
I did read that you have tried 500 mg tryptophan twice a day with others and it had beneficial effects. We are planning to increase it slowly and see. We only give it Mon to Fri for calmness in school and none on weekends / holidays. Are there any adverse impact of doing this long term?
Thanks and would really appreciate your answers.
Andy
I’m afraid I can’t offer specifics via the blog. It’s a matter of trialing various combinations and timings. You may find this blog helpful as you navigate this – My 6 year old was having panic attacks getting out of the car for Kindergarten: GABA has completely relieved him of his fears https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/my-6-year-old-was-having-panic-attacks-getting-out-of-the-car-for-kindergarten-gaba-has-completely-relieved-him-of-his-fears/
And this one about sensory issues – GABA Calm is a game changer for husband’s sound and tactile hypersensitivity, significant coordination problems and his anxiety https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/gaba-calm-is-a-game-changer-for-husbands-sound-and-tactile-hypersensitivity-significant-coordination-problems-and-his-anxiety/
If you are new to using amino acids my book The Antianxiety Food Solution is a good resource for the amino acids and all the dietary factors too – https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/the-antianxiety-food-solution-by-trudy-scott/ You don’t mention what dietary changes have been made
If you do find you need guidance and support – GABA Quickstart program https://www.anxietynutritioninstitute.com/gabaquickstart/ Many parents are in the program helping a child and you do get my specific feedback because I gather a mini health history.
Thank you Trudy for all your insights
needed to recheck with you about GABA, heard that it does not cross blood brain barrier ?
the Source Natural chewable?
Thanks so much~
Romy
That is a myth – you may find this a good read https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/dr-datis-kharrazians-gaba-challenge-for-a-leaky-blood-brain-barrier-is-a-theory-and-we-still-have-much-to-learn/
Our son took GABA for anxiety (we stopped after one dose only ) as it was recommended by his Naturopath. It put him to sleep. He slept deeply for a couple of hours. His diagnostic test results obtained by the Naturopath showed his GABA level was high. It goes to show that it is possible to have too much GABA and one has to be careful. That is our experience.
Also, his serotonin level was normal but his Norepinephrine was below normal.
Also, His amino acids were very very low so he was told to push the protein and amino acids.
I am reading your book to investigate ways to up the Norepinephrine naturally.
Anne
Anne
I don’t use urinary neurotransmitter testing as it’s not reliable. I use the symptoms questionnaire and do trials of respective amino acids.
I am curious how much GABA put your son to sleep – it’s often high doses that do this. I start with 125mg in adults and less in children – and increase from there.