5-HTP vs L-tryptophan
On Reddit, owners rate L-tryptophan higher overall (3.5 vs 3.5). Scores summarize self-reported experiences and are not evidence that either will work for you.
| 5-HTP | L-tryptophan | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | capsules | capsules |
| CalmVerdict score | 3.5 | 3.5 |
| Owner sentiment | 3.7 | 4.0 |
| Recommendations | 1.0 | 1.0 |
| Tolerability | 4.5 | 4.3 |
| Owner comments | 21 | 6 |
| Rated comments | 9 | 6 |
| Unwanted effects reported | 11% | 17% |
| Top praise | Dose & timing, Feeling flat or numb | Mood, Dose & timing |
| Top complaints | Side effects | Side effects |
By concern
| Context | 5-HTP | L-tryptophan |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety & worry | 3 of 4 positive | Too few comments |
| Low mood | 4 of 10 positive | 4 of 4 positive |
See how L-theanine, GABA and glycine compare. For quick shortlists by concern, see which calm supplements Reddit owners rate highest. Still comparing? Browse every calm supplement we track, sorted by Reddit owner score.
What owners say about 5-HTP
4/5“I took about that, 900 mg 5-HTP per day, for a while.”
4/5“I dislike 5 htp, it will likely just stay in the gut.”
4/5“I've been thinking of trying 5htp...for anxiety and help with binge eating tendencies, but I see so much conflicting information.”
What owners say about L-tryptophan
4/5 MoodTakes time“Ive been taking l-theanine and l-tryptophan and its made a huge impact on my mental health.”
4/5 Mood“I was taking Tryptophan for sleep, and it worked fantastic for that”
5/5“For me it has been L tryptophan. Has been a game changer for me I take 440mg 3 times a day and it has been great. I also have ocd and thats all I take.”
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before switching or combining supplements, particularly if you take other medicines.