What is 5-HTP
The neurotransmitter, 5-hydroxy-tryptophan (5-HTP)is a compound
created in the body which is used to regulate serotonin levels
in brain and central nervous system. Serotonin is an important
brain chemical involved in mood, behavior, appetite, and
sleep.5-HTP is said to
regulate moods, help treat anxiety and aid in weight loss. The
body produces its own supply of 5-HTP from tryptophan, an amino
acid found in high-protein foods such as chicken, fish, beef,
and dairy products.
Benefits of 5-HTP:
However, 5- HTP helps
improve moods of depressed patients
and may aid in weight loss,
improve sleep patterns and help panic attacks. 5-HTP combined
with a diet high in carbohydrates does lower blood pressure. 5-HTP also helps
with insomnia and lower the risk of heart disease due
to the less anxiety and a more peaceful state of mind. As 5-HTP
helps to increase Serotonin levels, which suppose to have a
direct effect on a persons mood.
Ease migraine pain. Migraine headaches have been linked to low
serotonin levels. Studies are ongoing to determine if 5-HTP, which may
boost the brain's serotonin levels, can help to reduce the
intensity, frequency, and duration of this extremely painful
type of headache.
Increase tolerance to the
pain of fibromyalgia. People who suffer from fibromyalgia, a
chronic condition that commonly causes muscle pain and disabling
fatigue, may have low serotonin levels. By increasing the level
of these neurochemicals, 5-HTP may improve pain tolerance. In a
recent Italian study, the 200 fibromylagia sufferers who added
5-HTP to a regimen of conventional antidepressants experienced
less pain than those who took the drugs or 5-HTP alone.
Forms tablet
capsule
Possible Side Effects Side effects are typically mild but
may include nausea, constipation, gas, drowsiness, or a
decreased sex drive. Nausea, should it occur, commonly
disappears after a few days.
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