5-Hydroxytryptophan or 5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid, a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin and an intermediate in l-tryptophane metabolism. It is commercialized in the United States and other countries as a dietary supplement for use as an antidepressant, appetite suppressant, and sleep aid. Because it is naturally occurring it has not been sought to be approved as a drug in any country.
The psychoactive action of 5 HTP is thought to derive from its effect on serotonin synthesis in central nervous system tissues. It is believed that an artificially high supply of 5-HTP causes the brain’s serotonin producing neurons to increase production. Increased serotonin production then leads to increased serotonin release and generally improved mood.
According to the web sites used, a supplement of 5-HTP is said to regulate moods, help treat anxiety and aid in weight loss. They also stated that 5-HTP helps with insomnia and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. The risk of heart disease is supposed to be lowered as a result of less anxiety and a more peaceful state of mind.
However, according to medical journals and surveys it is only proven that 5-HTP helps better moods of depressed patients and may aid in weight loss, better sleep patterns and help panic attacks. In the medical articles which were read, it was indicated that more research should be conducted on 5-HTP before any claims were made regarding the effects on sleep patterns or weight loss. However, in a clinical trial Schwarcz, Young, and Brown (1989) performed, there was evidence to show that 5 HTP combined with a diet high in carbohydrates does lower blood pressure.
L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid, meaning the human body does not produce it naturally, but is required for the body’s healthy functioning. L-l-tryptophan is present in a wide range of foods including beans, nuts, milk, and poultry. L-tryptophan is a precursor to 5-HTP (which is a precursor to serotonin) and is sold as a sleep aid and mood enhancer. L-tryptophane was banned by the FDA in the 1990s because of contamination in the production process, but was re-released onto the U.S. market in 2001 after the FDA published a revised estimate of the risks. During the 1990s, 5-HTP was sold for human consumption in the US and grew in popularity partially because L-tryptophan was unavailable.
When 5-HTP is combined with Vitamin C and Vitamin B6, 5-HTP will convert to serotonin more readily. Manufacturer’s uses natural l-5-HTP extracted from Griffonia simplicifolia beans produced in easy-to-swallow, enteric-coated tablets to minimize any potential gastric discomfort.
This product should not be consumed by children or by pregnant or lactating women. Some may experience gastrointestinal (GI) upset, diarrhea or nausea while taking this product which usually disappears by reducing dosage or is minimized by eating some food while taking the supplement. As with any supplement, if discomfort persists discontinue usage. Those suffering from gut disorders such as ulcers, irritable bowel disease, Crohns’s disease, celiac disease, etc., should not use 5-HTP. Those using MAO-inhibitors, antidepressants and drugs containing fenfluramine should not usage 5-HTP. It May also cause drowsiness.
5-HTP is available at your local or internet health food store. When purchasing 5-HTP, always search for a product that is enteric coated because stomach acids can destroy the ingredients and render it useless. Always search for name brands like Solaray, Source Naturals, and Natures Way to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. 5-htp is not intended to diagnose, treat and heal or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional wellness care provider before changing any medicine or adding Vitamins to medications.