Abstract
Using a randomized crossover study design, 25 healthy young adults were examined for
differences in anxiety, depression, and mood after consuming a high tryptophan and
a low tryptophan diet for 4 days each. There was a 2 week washout between the diets. A within-subjects analysis of the participants' mood
indicated significantly (p < .01) more positive affect scores after consuming a high tryptophan diet as compared
to a low tryptophan diet. Negative affect differences between the diets were not statistically
significant (p > .05). Also, consuming more dietary tryptophan resulted in (p < .05) less depressive symptoms and decreased anxiety.
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Published online: December 09, 2014
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