5-Hydroxytryptophan (90 caps) by Thorne

The serotonin levels in the body are associated with the regulation of sleep, mood, and appetite. A balanced serotonin level has been shown to support restful sleep, good mood, and decreased sugar cravings.* There are several ways to support a healthy serotonin level. L-tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) are both precursors to serotonin. However, supplementation with 5-HTP is preferable, because unlike L-tryptophan, 5-HTP cannot be shunted into other uses in the body, such as niacin or protein production. 5-HTP is well absorbed by the body and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier where it can increase the synthesis of serotonin in the central nervous system.* And 5-HTP can be taken with meals without reducing its effectiveness.* 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the intermediate metabolite the body produces when it initiates the process of converting the essential amino acid L-tryptophan to serotonin. Therefore, supplementation with 5-HTP will bypass the conversion of L-tryptophan into 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase – which is the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of serotonin – and is a conversion that can be inhibited by a number of factors, including stress, insulin resistance, increasing age, and deficiencies of vitamin C, folate, and iron.* 5-HTP is well absorbed when taken orally, with about 70 percent going into the bloodstream.* Intestinal absorption of 5-HTP does not require the presence of a transport molecule, and its absorption is not affected by the presence of other amino acids; therefore, 5-HTP can be taken with meals without reducing its effectiveness. 5-HTP has been shown to have a beneficial impact on mood, sleep, carbohydrate cravings, and discomfort associated with fatigue.* Numerous studies of individuals with negative mood status have shown significant positive response with 50-300 mg of 5-HTP daily.* To further facilitate serotonin production, Thorne’s 5-HTP formula contains pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, the active form of vitamin B6 and the necessary cofactor for the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin. 5-HTP is commercially produced by extraction from the seeds of the African plant, Griffonia simplicifolia.    

*This product is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness or disease. The content and recommendations contained on this website have not been reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are solely the opinion of the authors. Content contained on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never increase, reduce or discontinue any medication or treatment without first consulting your doctor.*