Randomised trial, 1999
Does L-tryptophan help mood symptoms in premenstrual dysphoria?
Yes. L-tryptophan taken during the luteal phase significantly reduced mood symptoms (low mood, mood swings, anxiety, irritability) compared to placebo.
What they did
Randomized controlled trial where 37 patients received L-tryptophan 6 g per day and 34 received placebo. Treatment was given for 17 days each cycle, from ovulation to the third day of menstruation, for 3 consecutive cycles.
What they found
L-tryptophan was significantly better than placebo for mood symptoms including dysphoria, mood swings, tension and irritability. The researchers suggest this works by increasing serotonin synthesis during the late luteal phase.
What it means for you
L-tryptophan may help mood-related premenstrual dysphoria by increasing the neurotransmitter serotonin. The trial did not test physical symptoms like bloating or pain.
37
patients given L-tryptophan
6 g
daily L-tryptophan dose
3
menstrual cycles studied
About the study
- Original title
- A placebo-controlled study of the effects of L-tryptophan in patients with premenstrual dysphoria
- Authors
- Steinberg S, Annable L, Young SN et al.
- Journal
- Advances in experimental medicine and biology
- Year
- 1999
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 37
- What was tested
- L-tryptophan 6 g per day during the luteal phase (from ovulation to third day of menstruation)
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-4709-9_11
Topics
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