Given a boost by celebrities in recovery from depression such as Jim Carrey, 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is once again the up-and-coming nutritional supplement for the treatment of depression. 5-HTP supplies the source of the amino acid tryptophan in a form that readily enters the brain. The human brain converts tryptophan into the key mood regulator serotonin.
What's the evidence for 5-HTP? Psychiatrists ran a research trial involving 60 people with mild to moderate depression compared 5-HTP against Luvox (fluvoxamine), an antidepressant in the same drug class as Prozac.
Serotonin levels that are too low can greatly attribute to anxiety, depression and a number of other mood and neurologic disorders. 5 HTP is available over the counter in capsule form at most health and vitamin shops, and better drug stores.
What is Serotonin? Scientifically, Serotonin is a hormone found in the pineal gland, digestive tract, blood platelets and brain. It works as a neurotransmitter that sends nerve signals between nerve cells. Normally, the body maintains a normal serotonin level, but there are times when the level of Serotonin drops. When this happens, you may experience various health conditions. A common cause of low- serotonin levels is prolonged stress. A poor diet can also cause serotonin levels to drop. Aside from that, hormonal changes may also contribute to low levels of serotonin. There are also studies that show that abuse of nicotine, alcohol and drugs may lead to a drop in the level of Serotonin in our body.
To avoid adverse effects, it's a good idea to begin by taking a 50-milligram dose once or twice a day. Then slowly build up to a 100-milligram dose, but only after 3 or 4 weeks.
5 HTP can be used in conjunction with other natural supplements as well, though it is recommended to consult with a physician before starting or combining any medication or supplements. Some do find it possible to manage their anxiety with 5 HTP.
This rare condition of excess serotonin may cause agitation, confusion, heightened physical reflexes, racing pulse, and excessive sweating leading to hypertension, coma, and death.
Serotonin syndrome has never been observed from supplementation with 5-HTP, but as a precaution, avoid using 5-HTP if you take any prescription drugs for depression or migraine. People who have angina, uncontrolled high blood pressure, a rare form of migraine known as Prinzmetal's angina, or who have had a heart attack should also avoid 5-HTP.
The best way to get good results when taking 5 HTP is to combine it with a diet that is rich in foods containing L-Tryptophan such as turkey, eggs, milk, yogurt, bananas, nuts, beans and cheddar and swiss cheese. Taking Vitamin B-6 and Omega-3 fish oil helps, too. By taking 5 HTP with this type of diet it is suggested that people can increase serotonin production naturally, reducing anxiety symptoms. Another benefit for some, by increasing serotonin production with the help of good carbohydrates and 5 HTP, it can also act as an appetite suppressant.
When that happens the pleasurable effect goes away, and the cravings return. When it does, it is also accompanied by anxiety, foggy thinking and irritability. This cycle cause you to gain a lot of weight and causes obesity.
What's the evidence for 5-HTP? Psychiatrists ran a research trial involving 60 people with mild to moderate depression compared 5-HTP against Luvox (fluvoxamine), an antidepressant in the same drug class as Prozac.
Serotonin levels that are too low can greatly attribute to anxiety, depression and a number of other mood and neurologic disorders. 5 HTP is available over the counter in capsule form at most health and vitamin shops, and better drug stores.
What is Serotonin? Scientifically, Serotonin is a hormone found in the pineal gland, digestive tract, blood platelets and brain. It works as a neurotransmitter that sends nerve signals between nerve cells. Normally, the body maintains a normal serotonin level, but there are times when the level of Serotonin drops. When this happens, you may experience various health conditions. A common cause of low- serotonin levels is prolonged stress. A poor diet can also cause serotonin levels to drop. Aside from that, hormonal changes may also contribute to low levels of serotonin. There are also studies that show that abuse of nicotine, alcohol and drugs may lead to a drop in the level of Serotonin in our body.
To avoid adverse effects, it's a good idea to begin by taking a 50-milligram dose once or twice a day. Then slowly build up to a 100-milligram dose, but only after 3 or 4 weeks.
5 HTP can be used in conjunction with other natural supplements as well, though it is recommended to consult with a physician before starting or combining any medication or supplements. Some do find it possible to manage their anxiety with 5 HTP.
This rare condition of excess serotonin may cause agitation, confusion, heightened physical reflexes, racing pulse, and excessive sweating leading to hypertension, coma, and death.
Serotonin syndrome has never been observed from supplementation with 5-HTP, but as a precaution, avoid using 5-HTP if you take any prescription drugs for depression or migraine. People who have angina, uncontrolled high blood pressure, a rare form of migraine known as Prinzmetal's angina, or who have had a heart attack should also avoid 5-HTP.
The best way to get good results when taking 5 HTP is to combine it with a diet that is rich in foods containing L-Tryptophan such as turkey, eggs, milk, yogurt, bananas, nuts, beans and cheddar and swiss cheese. Taking Vitamin B-6 and Omega-3 fish oil helps, too. By taking 5 HTP with this type of diet it is suggested that people can increase serotonin production naturally, reducing anxiety symptoms. Another benefit for some, by increasing serotonin production with the help of good carbohydrates and 5 HTP, it can also act as an appetite suppressant.
When that happens the pleasurable effect goes away, and the cravings return. When it does, it is also accompanied by anxiety, foggy thinking and irritability. This cycle cause you to gain a lot of weight and causes obesity.
About the Author:
Watch the reviews about 5-HTP reviews and see how you can get a free bottle offer from the official website.
