5Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid naturally produced by the body. It is well-known because of its contribution to serotonin’s production an organic chemical messenger which regulates sleep, mood digestion, bone health and many other. Serotonin levels in low levels can contribute to mood-related disorders , such as anxiety and depression as well as sleep issues, weight gain and various health issues.
Due to the positive impact serotonin can have for our wellbeing, lots of people use 5-HTP supplements in order to increase serotonin production, and to enhance certain aspects of their well-being, such as sleep and mental health.
Find out more information about the health benefits that could be derived from 5-HTP in the following article.
1. 5-HTP and depression
The exact reason for depression is not clear and it could be due to a variety of factors, researchers believe it is due to an imbalance in neurotransmitters within the brain. They act as chemical messengers and can affect our mood.
Serotonin is one of the neurotransmitters that has been studied extensively. It is believed that low levels trigger depression, and so the majority of antidepressants target the increase of serotonin production in the brain. Numerous studies have shown that supplements with 5 HTP be effective in the same way and help reduce the symptoms of depression through increasing serotonin production.
2. Aid weight loss
5-HTP could help you shed weight by creating a feeling of fullness and reducing appetite. While dieting or losing weight your body can increase the production of hormones that stimulate hunger which make losing weight difficult to sustain. 5-HTP is a supplement to this effect, making people feel much less hungry, and consequently you eat less.
According to a study that examined diabetics those who took supplements containing 5-HTP during two weeks consumed less calories per day over those who took placebo. Researchers also discovered that 5-HTP reduced the intake of calories from carbohydrates which increased glucose levels in the blood. Blood sugar levels that are high are harmful to your health and could cause diabetes.
3. Improve sleep quality
As we have discussed 5-HTP is needed to produce serotonin. It can later be transformed into melatonin which is a hormone which regulates the sleep cycle. Melatonin production rises when there is darkness, that signals to the body that it’s time to fall asleep.
Research suggests that 5 HTP gummies may increase the production of melatonin in the body. This can reduce the time required to go to sleep, extend the duration of sleep, and enhance the quality of your sleep.
4. Relax and ease anxiety
Similar to depression Serotonin levels that are low can cause anxiety and increase the risk anxiety attacks. A study conducted in 2002 found that 5-HTP supplements decreased anxiety among people suffering from a panic disorder. The research regarding the relationship between 5-HTP and anxiety are new and further studies are needed to verify the results.
5. Treat pain
Fibromyalgia, a condition, causes chronic nerve discomfort in muscles and bones as well as weakness. The condition can alter mood and capacity to sleep. Researchers aren’t sure of what causes fibromyalgia but they the low levels of serotonin could contribute to the cause. Studies suggest that 5-HTP may help alleviate muscles pain, sleep issues stress, fatigue, and anxiety that are associated with fibromyalgia.
Summary
The amino acid 5-HTP can be created in the body . It is necessary for the creation of serotonin. It is a hormone which regulates appetite, mood sleep, and mood.
The use of 5-HTP supplements can help increase the levels of serotonin in your body. It has been scientifically proven to manage anxiety and depression as well as ease pain caused by the condition, enhance sleep and help you lose weight.
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