A few weeks back in 9-03-09‘s Guide to Good Health, I discussed natural ways to improve your sleep. I suggested giving the amino acid L-tryptophan a try as a natural alternative to prescription sleep aids. Well, it seems my advice may have been a little unclear and I received this e-mail message from one GTGH reader:
Why does it say that it‘s OK to take L-tryptophan if you are under 40? I am 61 and have been taking it with good results. I would appreciate any insight that you could provide. Thanks....D. Parkhurst
First off, let me say thanks for the feedback! It‘s great to hear that some of you are already having success with L-tryptophan.
Now, on to your question...
What I meant to emphasize in 9-3-09‘s article is that if you‘re under 40, L-tryptophan is your best option. I don‘t recommend anyone younger than 40 take melatonin as it‘s a hormone. Since hormone production starts to flag after a certain age, melatonin is generally considered a safe bet for anyone past their 40th birthday.
But if you‘re over 40, feel free to try melatonin or L-tryptophan. L-tryptophan, as you can attest, is a great way for men and women of all ages to get a better night‘s rest.
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