5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. 5-HTP is synthesized in the body using the amino acid tryptophan. Consumption of 5-HTP in pill form can boost the body's serotonin level. 5-HTP is most commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, headache or migraine, seizures, and fibromyalgia. People also use 5HTP for weight loss, as it decreases food cravings.
Depression
Depression, a mood disorder, is related to a low level of serotonin in the brain. 5-HTP uses an amino acid tryptophan and converts it to serotonin, which in turn improves the symptoms of depression. A study published in 2003 and conducted at McGill University found that 5-HTP is considered a natural treatment, not only because it is found in body, but also because it is extracted from an African plant, Griffonia simplicifoli. The study also recommended that average dosage of 200 mg each day may be effective in treating the symptoms of depression.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia disorder is characterized by muscle pain, sleep disorder and physical fatigue. The disorder results from low levels of serotonin, which decreases pain tolerance and sleep quality. 5-HTP can improve the symptoms of fibromyalgia by raising the level of serotonin in the brain. The NYU Langone Medical Center explains that a double-blind study found that "50 people with fibromyalgia taking 300 mg of 5-HTP for 30 days reported significant decreases in the amount of pain they experienced, compared to those taking placebo."
Migraine
Migraine is a painful headache that is accompanied by nausea with or without vomiting. Many migraine sufferers are prescribed methysergide, a standard drug used in migraine treatment. But, the NYU Langone Medical Center explains that in one study, a daily dosage of 600 mg of 5-HTP proved equally effective as the standard drug methysergide. 5-HTP also prevents migraine when taken at a dosage of 400 mg daily for six months.
Weight Loss
A dietary supplement of 5-HTP is beneficial in weight loss. The University of Maryland Medical Center found that a good serotonin level may decrease food cravings and help people to be more satisfied after eating. Researchers also found that people who consume 5-HTP ate fewer calories and lost about 2 percent during the non-diet period and 3 percent during the diet period.
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