5-Hydroxytryptophan, simply called 5-HTP for short, is a chemical derived from the amino acid tryptophan. Your body uses 5-HTP to manufacture serotonin -- a brain chemical known as a neurotransmitter. 5-HTP is available as a dietary supplement. It may exert beneficial effects on your appetite, sleep and mood. However, it is important to consult your doctor before taking it and there are precautions for you to know.
Significance
As a precursor to serotonin, 5-HTP plays a significant role in your emotional health. Your serotonergic system is a complex system that helps regulate your appetite, moods, arousal and a wide variety of physiological functions. Decreased serotonin is commonly associated with low mood. Antidepressant medications help increase serotonin availability, though they often have unpleasant side effects.
Appetite Control
Appetite control poses a challenge if you are following a calorie restricted diet for weight loss. Prescription appetite suppressants such as fenfluramine increase serotonin availability in the brain, which is associated with a reduction in food cravings. 5-HTP's serotonergic effect appears to influence food intake also. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the October, 2009 issue of the "International Journal of Obesity" found that supplementing 5-HTP caused a significant increase in satiety, which led to decreased food intake in overweight women.
Sleep Quality
Restful sleep is crucial for your brain and body to heal and recharge. Many people experience sleep issues such as difficulty falling asleep or trouble staying asleep. 5-HTP may help you fall asleep quicker, stay asleep longer and experience deeper, more restful sleep, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC.
Depression
5-HTP is commonly known for its mood elevating benefits due to its ability to increase serotonin levels. 5-HTP may be as effective as a class of antidepressant medications known as serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, according to the UMMC. SSRIs prevent the break down and recycling of serotonin, which leaves more available to your brain for longer periods.
Dosage and Precautions
5-HTP is available in capsule, tablet and powder form. The typical dose is 50 mg taken up to three times daily. Take 5-HTP only under your doctor's supervision. 5-HTP side effects are generally mild and include heartburn, nausea and flatulence. 5-HTP may interact with antidepressant medications and triptans used to control migraine headaches. Tell your doctor if you are currently prescribed medication.
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