5-HTP Benefits: Advantages and How It Works

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid that occurs naturally as well as a synthetic chemical. It is a metabolic intermediary chemical formed during the body’s production of the neurotransmitters melatonin, tryptophan and serotonin. It is also called oxitriptan (INN). 5-HTP is extracted from the seed of the Griffoniaplant. Griffonia grows indigenously in West and Central Africa.

5-HTP is vital for the brain as it helps boost the production of serotonin. Serotonin helps in reducing anxiety. Hence, 5-HTP plays a significant role in treating anxiety and depression. Also, there are many other benefits of 5-HTP:

·          Sleep Disorders: Insomnia due to ageing is linked to significant psychological and social disorders. Also, sleep disorders can cause memory loss, fatigue, mood swings and weaken the immune system. 5-HTP, valerian root, melatonin and choline health supplements help in reversing the damages caused by sleep deprivation. These health supplements also aid in sleeping soundly.

·          Weight Loss: According to many reports, hereditary deficiency of serotonin can lead to obesity. 5-HTP is known for releasing serotonin in the brain and is also known to satiate carbohydrate cravings naturally. Thus, 5-HTP helps in controlling excess food intake and losing weight.

·          Headaches and Migraines: Persistently low level of serotonin in the brain can cause frequent headaches and migraines of varying intensity. Serotonin can prevent such headaches. 5-HTP supplements can also be administered to children if they suffer from headaches or migraines.

·          Enhance Mood and Energy – 5-HTP in combination with DHEA and phenylalanine can uplift your spirits and make you happy. 5-HTP can solve the problem of serotonin deficiency. Apart from 5-HTP, DHEA also helps in reducing depression. Phenylalanine is the nutritious precursor to noradrenaline, a neurotransmitter similar to adrenaline. Noradrenaline is essential for maintaining focus, alertness, memory and mental energy. Lack of noradrenaline can result in draining of energy and short attention spans.

5-HTP supplements can also help in solving the problems associated with fibromyalgia, neurological disorders, panic disorders and Cerebellar Ataxia. However, in the case of these health disorders, it is best to consult a medical practitioner before taking 5-HTP supplements.