Health Sections:
Mood & Sleep;
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid, derived
from a West African herb, Griffonia simplicifolia. 5-HTP is the intermediate metabolite between the amino acid L-tryptophan and serotonin.
Serotonin, is an important substance for normal nerve and brain function, which plays a significant role in sleep, emotional moods, pain control, inflammation, and intestinal peristalsis.
Serotonin is also involved in the sleep cycle
by boosting levels of the ‘biorhythm’ hormone, melatonin
5-HTP has been studied for its use in:
mild to moderate depression, anxiety, SAD
low libido associated with low mood e.g. PMS or menopause
mild sleep disturbance and jet lag
migraines & stress headaches
fibromyalgia
reducing appetite and helping to promote weight loss
Food Sources When we eat tryptophan rich foods it is first converted into 5-HTP (5 hydroxytryptophan) before finally being
converted into serotonin. Tryptophan is an amino acid found mainly in poultry and game,
cottage cheese, bananas, eggs, nuts, wheat germ, avocados, milk,
cheese and the legumes.
Note 5-HTP is also available as double strength in Vcaps formula (60) - suitable for vegetarians.
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