5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a chemical produced in the body. It is made from the amino acid tryptophan and then used for the production of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter involved in the regulation of functions such as mood, sleep and appetite. 5-HTP can be manufactured from the seeds of a certain African tree and is used medicinally to increase the levels of serotonin in the body -- as low levels are implicated in a variety of conditions.
Depression Treatment and Prevention
Depression is a debilitating mental disorder affecting every aspect of an individual's life. As a precursor to serotonin, 5-HTP has been used as an antidepressant for the treatment of depression. Similar to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which are commonly prescribed for depression, 5-HTP increases serotonin levels in the brain. Low levels of serotonin in the brain has been linked with depressive disorders and several studies have shown 5-HTP to be effective in improving mood, according to an article by Timothy Birdsall, N.D. in Volume 3 of the 1998 issue of Alternative Medicine Review.
Fibromyalgia Treatment
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition of widespread pain in the muscles, tendons and ligaments along with fatigue, sleep disturbances and tender points on the body where applied pressure causes pain. Although the cause is unknown, individuals with fibromyalgia have been found to have low levels of serotonin and tryptophan in the brain. 5-HTP may help restore serotonin imbalances and improve pain and sleep symptoms as well as associated anxiety or depression, according to the University of Michigan Health Systems.
Obesity Treatment
5-HTP has shown promise as a treatment for obesity. Dieting causes a drop in serotonin and tryptophan levels resulting in subsequent food cravings and then binge eating. Thus 5-HTP may help maintain serotonin and tryptophan levels and curb overeating by stimulating satiety, or the feeling of being full, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is important to speak with a doctor before starting a weight loss regimen.
Headaches Prevention
5-HTP can help in the prevention of chronic headaches including migraines, juvenile headaches and tension headaches, according to an article by Timothy Birdsall, N.D. in Volume 3 of the 1998 issue of Alternative Medicine Review. An increased breakdown of serotonin and subsequent decrease in levels in the brain may contribute to headaches by lowering pain thresholds and allowing for an easier onset of headaches. 5-HTP administration may help restore this loss of serotonin.
References
- depression-guide.com: 5HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)- 5htp side effects, dosage and benefits
- Health Canada: Monograph - 5-HTP
- Nutritional Supplements Health Guide: The Benefits of 5-HTP You Shouldn't Take for Granted
- University of Michigan Health System: 5-Hydroxytryptophan
- University of Maryland Medical Center: 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
- Alternative Medicine Review: 5-Hydroxytryptophan: A Clinically-Effective Serotonin Precursor
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