As the University of Maryland Medical Center explains, 5-HTP is a chemical that is converted into the neurotransmitter serotonin, which helps relay messages throughout your brain. The medical center notes that because serotonin is involved in a wide variety of psychological conditions--appetite, mood and pain sensations, among others--5-HTP may have a number of different uses. Although 5-HTP is created from the amino acid tryptophan, the medical center explains that 5-HTP itself is not contained in foods, even those that contain trytophan. For this reason, supplementation may be helpful. You should consult a doctor before taking 5-HTP or any other supplements.
Treating Depression
Because 5-HTP is converted into serotonin, the supplement has been used to treat depression, explains the online mental health resource, Healthy Place. According to Healthy Place, serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps induce feelings of well-being and calm. Thirty years of research have indicated a connection between 5-HTP and alleviation of depression. Healthy Place notes that 5-HTP's effects have been compared favorably to the effects of a prescription antidepressant. In addition, side effects of 5-HTP are rare. The suggested dose of 5-HTP for depression is between 50 and 500 mg daily.
Reducing Insomnia
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 5-HTP may also be helpful in relieving insomnia. Serotonin helps promote relaxation and produces feelings of calm, which are conducive to sleep. The medical center explains that scientific research indicates 5-HTP supplementation may help encourage deeper, longer sleep. However, improvements in quality of sleep may take between six and 12 weeks to occur. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, researchers recommend doses of 200 to 400 mg of 5-HTP each night.
Weight Loss
Despite differing from most weight loss supplements in that it does not contain stimulants, 5-HTP may help you lose weight, according to some researchers. Judith Wurtman, Ph.D, notes that the serotonin that 5-HTP creates offers multiple mechanisms for weight loss. Serotonin transmits signals telling your brain that you are full, acting as an appetite suppressant. In addition, Wurtman points out that serotonin can help you feel "more focused and energetic," which may take your mind off of eating.
Anxiety
According to the supplement information website Drugs.com, another possible benefit of 5-HTP is its ability to reduce levels of anxiety. In addition, Healthy Place notes that research indicates that having a faulty, or missing, serotonin receptor during youth can lead to anxiety disorder later in life.
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