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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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