5HTP & Kelp

Over half of all American adults took some type of dietary supplement between 2003 and 2006, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While about 40 percent take multivitamins, many also take supplements purported to help a variety of medical conditions. In many cases, clinical studies have not proven the benefits claimed. This is the case with both 5-Hydroxytryptophan, more commonly known as 5-HTP, a derivative of the amino acid tryptophan obtained from plant seeds, and kelp, a type of seaweed. Both can have serious side effects, particularly when taken in high doses. Ask your doctor before taking these supplements.

Purpose of 5-HTP

In the body, 5-HTP converts to a chemical known as seratonin. Seratonin, a neurotransmitter that transports signals between brain cells, helps modulate moods and behavior. People take 5-HTP to alleviate depression and anxiety, help with sleep and to treat the pain of chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia. Study results on the benefits of this over-the-counter supplement have been mixed. An Australian meta-analysis published in the August 2002 issue of "The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry" of the benefits on depression found insufficient evidence for the effectiveness of treating depression with 5-HTP. Out of 108 studies found, only two met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis.

Risks

Several potentially serious side effects have occurred in people taking 5-HTP. In several cases, contamination of supplements containing either 5-HTP or tryptophan with a substance known as Peak X caused a potentially fatal condition called eosinophilic myalgia syndrome, or EMS.This condition, which affects the skin, blood, muscles and organs, causes severe muscle pain and high levels of white bloods cells known as eosinophils. Other potentially serious side effects include seratonin syndrome, which can occur if you take excessive doses of this supplement. Seratonin syndrome causes agitation, diarrhea, muscle spasms, poor coordination, confusion, shivering and hyper reflexes. More common side effects of 5-HTP include nausea, heartburn gas or feelings of numbness. Call your doctor if you experience any symptoms after taking this supplement.

Purpose of Taking Kelp

People take kelp, a type of seaweed, as a weight-loss supplement, among other purposes, although studies have not proven its effectiveness. Some take kelp as a thyroid regulator, because kelp contains iodine and low iodine levels can cause hypothyroid. In the United States, where salt contains added iodine, low iodine levels rarely cause hypothyroid, however. Kelp has also been used as a potential treatment for viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus or herpes simplex, although clinical studies have not proven a conclusive benefit. Some practitioners also use kelp as a cancer treatment, although benefits against cancer are also unproven.

Risks

Taking large amounts of kelp can cause iodine overdose, which can lead to hypothyroid or hyperthyroidism. The iodine in kelp can also cause or worsen acne. Kelp can also contain arsenic; taking large doses could lead to arsenic poisoning. Both arsenic poisoning and iodine overdose can cause vomiting, weakness, headache and diarrhea. Notify your doctor if you develop these symptoms after taking kelp.