A metabolite of the amino acid tryptophan. May increase or balance seratonin levels,
The intermediate metabolite between the amino acid L-tryptophan and serotonin
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid that is the intermediate step between tryptophan and the important neurotransmitter serotonin, an important neurotransmitter that helps regulate appetite, mood and sleep. 5-HTP is one step closer to serotonin t 5 Hydroxytryptophan is a derivative of the amino acid tryptophan and a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is a key regulator of mood, sleep, and appetite. Serotonin has been shown to alleviate depression, aid in weight loss, prevent migraine headaches, decrease the discomfort of fibromyalgia, improve sleep quality, and reduce anxiety.
5-HTP easily enters the bloodstream and converts to serotonin. Taken orally, 70% of 5-HTP is converted to serotonin, as compared to only 3% of tryptophan.
5-HTP is a direct precursor of the important inhibitory neurotransmitter serotonin. It is a natural substance that converts in the brain into serotonin. Serotonin is secreted in response to mood or emotion swings •
Since 1970, more then 15 clinical trials have been conducted in which 5-HTP has been compared to a variety of antidepressants in order to assess its effectiveness. Overall, these trials showed outstanding results in 56% of subjects receiving 5-HTP. These subjects reported alleviation of depressed feelings.
5-HTP suppresses carbohydrate cravings, thus naturally aiding in weight loss. The suppression of carbohydrate cravings has proven helpful in maintaining a yeast-free eating program. Therefore, 5-HTP is also recommended for those who are following a yeast-free eating program.
Serotonin soothes and calms and brings about feelings of contentment.
Serotonin is an important brain chemical involved in mood, behavior, appetite, and sleep. Serotonin is known as 5-HT, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, and is found throughout the body, but particularly in the brain, gastrointestinal system and blood cells.
May regulate mood, sleep patterns, and pain control
5-HTP is made in the body from the amino acid tryptophan. Most of the 5-HTP produced in the body comes from its manufacture in the intestines from tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid; that is, the body does not have the capacity to synthesize it. All the supply of tryptophan must be gotten through foods that contain protein.
It is extracted from the Griffonia seed. The seeds come from an African tree grown mostly in Ghana and the Ivory Coast. 5-HTP can also be made synthetically in the laboratory.
In Studies: In a rodent study it was indicated being useful in controlling excessive food intake, sometimes generated by stress, even when given without decarboxylase inhibitors or other drugs.
Clinical studies have shown that supplementation helps to positively improve mood/depression by helping normalize serotonin levels in the brain. Other benefits of supplementation includes improved sleep patterns and reduction in symptoms associated with obsessive/compulsive behavior, anxiety, PMS and migraines. It reduces appetite in overweight individuals with an overeating disorder.
Synergist: B6 may help it to be converted into serotonin more efficiently
Signs or Symptoms of a Deficiency: Conditions associated with low serotonin levels helped by 5-HTP, Depression, Obesity
Carbohydrate craving,
Bulimia,
Insomnia,
Narcolepsy,
Sleep apnea,
Migraine headaches,
Tension headaches,
Chronic daily headaches,
Premenstrual syndrome, Fibromyalgia
Excess maybe seen in: nausea and vomiting, stomach cramps, nightmares and decreased sex drive.
The statements on this Web site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). And are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information presented is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment from your own doctor or healthcare provider. Nothing presented here is intended as a substitute for prescription medication or any other medical treatment prescribed by your doctor.
