5-HTP

Gluten Free
Non-GMO
Vegetarian
Vegetable Caps

Nutritional support for healthy mood, sleep and stress

Increases serotonin levels
Supports normal sleep patterns
Enhances positive mood
Aids with stress management
Helps regulate appetite and sugar cravings

Unique Properties

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an intermediate in the natural synthesis of the essential amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is converted into 5-HTP, which in turn is converted into serotonin, an important neurotransmitter that is associated with the regulation of sleep, mood, appetite, aggression, temperature and sexual behavior.

Supplementation with 5-HTP is preferable to supplementing with L-tryptophan. 5-HTP is derived naturally from the seeds of the Griffonia plant, where L-tryptophan is produced synthetically or through bacterial fermentation. 5-HTP crosses into the brain more readily than L-tryptophan, as it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier without competing with other amino acids for uptake. Unlike L-tryptophan, 5-HTP cannot be shunted into niacin or protein production.

Supplementing with 5-HTP provides the advantage of bypassing the conversion of L-tryptophan into 5-HTP, eliminating possible obstacles in the synthesis of serotonin. This conversion process can be inhibited by many factors including stress, insulin resistance, increasing age, and deficiencies of vitamin C, folate, and iron.

Oral 5-HTP is well-absorbed in the intestine without the need for a transporter and is not affected by the presence of other amino acids. As such, it may be taken with meals without reducing effectiveness.

Key Ingredients

5-HTP

Patient One 5-HTP supplies 100 mg of natural 5-hydroxytryptophan. Studies suggest that 5-HTP supports healthy levels of serotonin, the chemical messenger that affects emotions, behavior, appetite and sleep.

Adequate levels of serotonin in the brain are related to a balanced emotional state. By regulating activity of certain excitatory hormones, including dopamine and noradrenaline, serotonin helps promote a sense of calmness and relaxation. In numerous studies, significant positive response was shown in individuals with negative mood status when supplementing with 50–300 mg 5-HTP daily.

Acting as a satiety signal in the brain, serotonin helps naturally regulate food intake. Studies support the role of 5-HTP in appetite and weight management. When used in higher doses (300 mg 3 times per day), 5-HTP has been shown to decrease food consumption and reduce weight.

As a precursor of melatonin, serotonin is involved in regulating sleep patterns and has a beneficial effect on sleep/wake cycles and sleep quality.

Research

Several small short-term studies have found that 5-HTP may be as effective as standard antidepressants.(5,6) Since standard antidepressants are also used for insomnia and anxiety, 5-HTP has also been suggested for those conditions.(7)
A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed on 20 obese patients to investigate the effect 5-HTP would have on their eating habits. Significant weight loss was observed in those patients taking 5-HTP compared to placebo. A reduction in carbohydrate intake and a consistent presence of early satiety was also found.(1)

References

Cangiano C, Ceci F, Cascino A, et al. Eating behavior and adherence to dietary prescriptions in obese adult subjects treated with 5-hydroxytryptophan. Am J Clin Nutr. 1992 Nov;56:863-67. [PMID: 1384305]
Cangiano C, Laviano A, Del Ben M, et al. Effects of oral 5-hydroxy-tryptophan on energy intake and macronutrient selection in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 1998 Jul;22(7):648-54. [PMID:9705024]
Ribeiro CA. L-5-hydroxytryptophan in the prophylaxis of chronic tension-type headache: a double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled study. Headache. 2000 Jun;40(6):451-56. [PMID: 10849040]
Nagata E, Shibata M, Hamada J, et al. Plasma 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in migraine during an attack-free period. Headache. 2006 Apr;46(4):592-96. [PMID: 16643553]
Byerley WF, Judd LL, Reimherr FW, et al. 5-hydroxytryptophan: a review of its antidepressant efficacy and adverse effects. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 1987;7:127-137.
Poldinger W, Calanchini B, Schwarz W. A functional-dimensional approach to depression: Serotonin deficiency as a target syndrome in a comparison of 5-hydroxytryptophan and fluvoxamine. Psychopathology. 1991;24:53-81.
Kahn RS, Westenberg HG, Verhoeven WM, et al. Effect of a serotonin precursor and uptake inhibitor in anxiety disorders; a double-blind comparison of 5-hydroxytryptophan, clomipramine and placebo. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 1987;2:33-45.

Supplement Facts

Serving Size: 1 Capsule
Servings Per Container: 60
Amount Per Serving	% Daily Value**

5-Hydroxytryptophan (Gryffonia simplicifolia) (seed)	100	mg	†

† Daily Value not established.
Other Ingredients: rice flour, vegetable cellulose (capsule), stearic acid, leucine, silica
This product is free of milk, egg, fish, peanuts, crustacean shellfish, soy, tree nuts, wheat, yeast, and gluten. This product is free of ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Suggested Use

Take 1 capsule 1 to 2 times daily in divided doses between meals, as a dietary supplement or as directed by your health practitioner. To derive optimal benefits of 5-HTP, ensure adequate intake of Vitamin B6. Store in a cool, dry place.

Warnings

Consult your health practitioner before use. Do not use concurrently with SSRI medications, MAO inhibitors or other antidepressant medication. Not recommended if pregnant or nursing or for children under age 12. Discontinue use and consult your health practitioner if any adverse reactions occur. Keep out of reach of children.