5-HTP is promoted as a supplement that can potentially alter Serotonin levels in the human body. The reason why this is so important to mention is the fact that Serotonin is responsible for triggering sleep, hunger and mood. If it is found in proper quantities, it can reduce stress, tension and may even help fight obesity. The product itself is derived from L-tryptophan, an essential protein and amino acid. You may find this supplement appealing if you are suffering from depression, headaches, insomnia and other disorders.
Source Naturals is the company that produces 5-HTP. They have been around for many years and have been providing us with a variety of products. The company claims the goal of 5-HTP is to balance out levels of Serotonin in order to take control of your body’s various functions. However, a contaminated batch of L-tryptophan has been associated with several side effects over the years, a fact that discouraged potential users from purchasing the product some years ago.
1) 5-HTP at a Glance
As we’ve already mentioned, there was quite some controversy regarding 5-HTP containing L-tryptophan. It was a very popular nutritional supplement in the United States, but in 1989, L-tryptophan was recalled by the FDA, based on several reports and studies associating the amino acid with multiple side effects. It later turns out that the ingredient itself was harmless, but the batch tested by the FDA was contaminated.
2) Details on 5-HTP Ingredients and Uses
5 HTP includes the following ingredients: L-5-Hydroxytryptophan, microcrystalline cellulose, gelatin (capsule), colloidal silicon dioxide, and magnesium stearate.
3) Does 5-HTP Work?
According to the producing company, 5-HTP is a chemical drug that may help to regulate the function of the brain. In a supplemental form, it is often portrayed as a means of calming the brain. This can reduce stress, anxiety, tension, and headaches. It is also believed to be a way of regulating chemicals so that a patient doesn’t suffer from the effects of ADD.
It appears that this drug functions based on a process that involves the levels of chemicals in the brain to be regulated so that the nerves get positive messages. However, dealing with chemicals in the brain is a complicated and complex issue. Thus, each may respond to 5-HTP differently, so it is hard to measure its benefits without multiple medical studies.
300 mg of 5-HTP per day is usually adequate, although this has not been conclusively determined. During a placebo-controlled trial, a single 100 mg nighttime dose of this drug was enough to improve the duration and depth of sleep for insomnia sufferers. For tension related headaches, 100 mg of 5-HTP (3 times per day) has shown to reduce severity significantly.
Unfortunately, this drug (like most of the chemical drugs available) was associated with various side effects. Some side effects are including insomnia, dry mouth, heartburn, diarrhea, and nausea.
4) 5-HTP Benefits & Results
- The product can be considered relatively inexpensive
- A free trial offer is available
- Several customer testimonials refer to this supplement
- The product has been on the market for many years
5) 5-HTP Warnings and Precautions
- The supplement was associated with various side effects, such as insomnia, dry mouth, heartburn, diarrhea, and nausea;
- No money-back guarantee is offered.
- Shipping charges depend on your location and may be considered costly.
6) 5-HTP Cost
While the price of 5-THP products vary, the average price is $19.95 per bottle. Buying 5 HTP products at local retailers is possible. This allows a consumer to gain instant access rather than waiting for a shipment. It can also reduce the cost due to no shipping fees. However, anyone considering a 5-HTP supplement should take the time to compare the overall value as well as price before purchasing anything.
7) How to Take 5-HTP
The supplier states that 5-HTP is a chemical drug with calming effects, which can improve brain function. It is said to reduce stress, anxiety, headaches and tension and can also be used as a way of regulating chemicals in the brain, so that the user is less likely to suffer from ADD. The problem is, dealing with these chemicals is a complex and delicate issue and not all 5-HTP users may respond the same to it, which is why it proves difficult to measure the benevolent effects of the product.
8) Bottom Line – Does It Really Work?
5-HTP may not be an herbal blend of ingredients, but as a chemical drug, it claims to relieve a person of more than just stress and tension. There is a substantial amount of evidence pointing towards the fact that low levels of serotonin are a consequence of modern living and having an unhealthy lifestyle, with poor dietary habits can really affect a person in the long term.
This product promises to help people reduce their appetite, depression, and other disorders, as it has been proven in short term research.
However, adverse reactions may appear in some individuals due to the fact that people have been reporting different results from the use of 5-HTP. This supplement is available both online and at your local retailer, but prices may vary depending on your source. If you do not like taking chemical drugs, we commend you opt for an all-natural herbal supplement instead.
