Discover the optimal 5-HTP dosage for sleep, depression, anxiety, and more. Explore the health benefits, potential side effects, and supporting evidence.

Unlocking the Power of 5-HTP: Understanding the Optimal Dosage

5-HTP, or 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is a natural supplement that has gained considerable attention for its wide-ranging health benefits. From promoting healthy sleep patterns to alleviating the symptoms of depression and anxiety, 5-HTP has become a popular choice for those seeking a more natural approach to their well-being. However, the key to unlocking the true potential of this supplement lies in finding the right dosage for your specific needs.

Optimizing Sleep with 5-HTP: The Ideal Dosage

Many individuals struggle with sleep-related issues, from poor-quality sleep to full-blown insomnia. If you’re not getting the rest your body needs, it can have a significant impact on your daily life, affecting brain function and productivity. Fortunately, 5-HTP can play a crucial role in regulating your sleep cycles.

How does 5-HTP help with sleep? The supplement is involved in the production of serotonin, which is then converted into melatonin – the hormone that helps to control your sleep-wake patterns. By increasing your body’s melatonin levels, 5-HTP can promote faster sleep onset and improved sleep quality.

What is the optimal dosage of 5-HTP for sleep? Experts recommend taking between 100mg and 300mg of 5-HTP, approximately 30-45 minutes before bedtime. Start with the lower end of the range and gradually increase the dosage if needed, until you find the sweet spot that works best for you.

Tackling Depression with 5-HTP: The Recommended Dosage

Depression is a prevalent mental health condition, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Interestingly, low serotonin levels in the brain have been linked to the onset of depressive symptoms. This is where 5-HTP comes into play, as it can help boost serotonin production and alleviate the effects of depression.

What is the recommended dosage of 5-HTP for depression? The typical recommendation is to take 50mg to 100mg of 5-HTP, three times a day, with meals. It’s important to note that it may take up to a week to notice the full effects of the supplement, so be patient and consistent with your dosage.

Before starting any 5-HTP regimen for depression, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you’re currently taking other medications, to ensure there are no potential interactions.

Addressing Anxiety with 5-HTP: The Ideal Dosage

Anxiety is another common mental health concern that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Interestingly, 5-HTP has been studied for its potential to alleviate anxiety symptoms, thanks to its role in serotonin production.

What is the recommended dosage of 5-HTP for anxiety? Typically, healthcare professionals suggest taking 50mg to 300mg of 5-HTP per day, divided into two or three doses. It’s important to start with the lower end of the range and gradually increase the dosage if needed, while closely monitoring your response.

As with any supplement, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating 5-HTP into your anxiety management plan, especially if you’re already taking other medications.

Exploring the Health Benefits of 5-HTP: A Comprehensive Overview

In addition to its potential benefits for sleep, depression, and anxiety, 5-HTP has been studied for its impact on a variety of other health conditions. Some of the potential health benefits of 5-HTP include:

• Weight loss support: 5-HTP may help reduce appetite and promote a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.
• Migraine relief: Some research suggests that 5-HTP may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.
• Fibromyalgia management: 5-HTP has been studied for its potential to alleviate the symptoms of fibromyalgia, including pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
• Improved cognitive function: There is some evidence that 5-HTP may enhance cognitive abilities, such as memory and focus.

Ensuring Safety with 5-HTP: Understanding Potential Side Effects

While 5-HTP is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects associated with the supplement. Some of the most commonly reported side effects of 5-HTP include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Increased heart rate
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness

It’s also crucial to note that 5-HTP may interact with certain medications, such as antidepressants, blood thinners, and pain relievers. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any 5-HTP regimen, especially if you’re currently taking other medications.

Optimizing Your 5-HTP Experience: Key Considerations

When it comes to taking 5-HTP, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure the best possible outcomes:

1. Start with a lower dosage and gradually increase as needed: Everybody’s body responds differently to supplements, so it’s important to find the right dosage for your individual needs.
2. Take 5-HTP with meals: Consuming 5-HTP with food can help improve absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects.
3. Be patient and consistent: It may take some time for the full effects of 5-HTP to be realized, so it’s important to be consistent with your dosage and give the supplement enough time to work.
4. Consult with a healthcare professional: Before starting any 5-HTP regimen, it’s crucial to discuss your plans with a qualified healthcare provider, especially if you’re taking other medications or have any underlying health conditions.

By following these key considerations, you can maximize the potential benefits of 5-HTP and enjoy a safe and effective supplementation experience.

Conclusion

5-HTP is a versatile and promising natural supplement with a wide range of potential health benefits. From promoting healthy sleep patterns to alleviating the symptoms of depression and anxiety, the right dosage of 5-HTP can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.

Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re currently taking medications or have any underlying health conditions. By following the dosage guidelines and safety precautions outlined in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of 5-HTP and take a proactive step towards a healthier, more balanced life.

5 HTP Dosage – Here’s What You Need To Know – EVO Nutrition

5 HTP is a natural supplement with many benefits. From promoting healthy sleep to helping with weight loss, the benefits of taking 5 HTP seem to be endless. But you’re probably wondering about 5 HTP dosage. How much 5 HTP should you be taking?

Many people rely on the effects of 5 HTP to manage their chronic conditions. Whether it’s migraines or fibromyalgia, 5 HTP seems to be the answer to many complaints. However, it’s important to get the dosage right. In this article, we’ll explore the different doses of 5 HTP for some of the most common conditions.

What Dose Of 5 HTP Should You Take?

The dose of 5 HTP that you’ll need to take will depend on the reason you’re taking it. This is because different doses of 5 HTP will offer different effects. You need to be sure that you’re taking the right dose for your needs.

For example, if you’re suffering from depression, the dose of 5 HTP that you’ll take will be very different to the dose you’d take for managing migraines. You don’t want to get it wrong.

But how do you know what dosage of 5 HTP you should be taking? Read on to discover the right 5 HTP dosage for your needs.

Find vegan-friendly 5 HTP supplements here

Taking 5 HTP For Sleep

Many people suffer from sleep issues, from poor-quality sleep to insomnia. If you aren’t getting the right amount of quality sleep, it can affect your day-to-day life, impacting your brain function and your productivity.

Melatonin is the natural hormone which helps to regulate your sleep patterns. Your body’s levels of melatonin rise in an evening to help you to fall to sleep and fall in a morning to wake you up.

Your body uses serotonin to produce melatonin. It is then released from the pineal gland at night, helping to regulate your sleep cycles. If your body isn’t producing enough melatonin, you may suffer from problems sleeping.

How Does 5 HTP Help With Sleep?

5 HTP plays a key role in the production of serotonin, which can then be converted into melatonin. For this reason, taking 5 HTP supplements can help to increase your melatonin production, helping to promote healthy sleep patterns.

A 2010 study investigated the impact of taking 5 HTP and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on sleep cycles. The study found that participants who took the supplements were able to fall asleep significantly faster than the placebo group as well as getting more high-quality sleep.

This demonstrates the promising effects of taking 5 HTP to improve sleep.

What Is The Dosage Of 5 HTP For Sleep?

If you’re looking for a natural way to improve the quality and duration of your sleep, taking 5 HTP supplements could help. But what dose of 5 HTP should you take for sleep?

You can take between 100mg and 300mg of 5 HTP for sleep. It’s best to begin with the lower dose and increase the dosage gradually up to the maximum allowed if required. You should take 5 HTP 30-45 minutes before you go to bed for the maximum effect.

Click here to purchase 5 HTP supplements

Taking 5 HTP For Depression

According to mental health charity Mind, a quarter of those in the UK will experience a mental health problem every year. And with depression being one of the most common mental health conditions, there’s no wonder that more and more people are looking for a more natural way to manage their mood.

How Does 5 HTP Help With Depression?

Depression is often linked to low serotonin levels in the brain. That’s why many antidepressants target serotonin levels, helping to relieve the symptoms of depression.

5 HTP is naturally produced in the body, where it is used to produce serotonin. Increasing the amount of 5 HTP in your body can enable your body to produce more serotonin, reducing the effects of depression and other mental health illnesses.

A 2002 review of studies found that 5 HTP may help to treat depression, especially in those who were resistant to therapy. Those taking 5 HTP supplements often report increased mental wellbeing and a greater sense of relaxation – something that every depression sufferer longs for.

What Is The Dosage of 5 HTP For Depression?

Many people rely on the effects of 5 HTP to manage their depression. But what dose of 5 HTP is most effective for treating depression?

It is recommended that those suffering with depression take 50mg – 100mg of 5 HTP, three times a day. This should be taken with meals. It may take up to a week to notice a difference from taking the 5 HTP supplements, so don’t be concerned if you don’t notice a difference straight away.

It’s always best to contact your doctor for advice if you’re planning to take 5 HTP alongside any other medications to ensure that they won’t interact.

Buy 5 HTP supplements for depression here

Taking 5 HTP For Anxiety

Anxiety can be a crippling condition with sufferers struggling to cope with normal day-to-day life including social interactions and typical daily tasks. It’s understandable that those suffering from depression would be looking for a more natural way to ease their anxiety.

How Does 5 HTP Help With Anxiety?

It’s not known exactly what causes anxiety. However, what we do know is that when levels of serotonin are increased, it typically induces feelings of mental wellbeing and relaxation. This makes maintaining healthy levels of serotonin critical in managing anxiety.

5 HTP is responsible for triggering the natural production of serotonin. The more 5 HTP that your body has, the more serotonin your body is able to produce. By increasing your levels of serotonin, you can promote relaxation and reduce your feelings of anxiety.

This makes 5 HTP supplements a valuable resource in reducing anxiety and promoting mental wellbeing.

What Is The Dosage Of 5 HTP For Anxiety?

5 HTP supplements are popular amongst anxiety sufferers as they offer a more natural way to manage the symptoms of anxiety. But how much 5 HTP should you take for anxiety?

The optimum dose of 5 HTP for anxiety is 50mg – 100mg, three times a day. It’s best to take this supplement with meals to minimise the risk of side effects. It can take up to a week for the full effects to be achieved.

Click here to find 5 HTP supplements for anxiety

Taking 5 HTP For Weight Loss

It can be hard to lose weight, especially if you’re dealing with constant hunger pangs. We all know that being a healthy weight will contribute towards optimum health, but it isn’t always that easy. Sometimes you need a little help along the way.

How Does 5 HTP Help With Weight Loss?

5 HTP has been shown to aid weight loss by suppressing appetite. It’s not known exactly how it works but it’s thought to be related to the increase in production of serotonin that 5 HTP triggers in the brain, leading to a feeling of fullness.

One study involved diabetes sufferers taking 5 HTP every day for two weeks. The group that was given 5 HTP consumed around 435 calories less than the placebo group each day and mainly avoided carbohydrates. As well as losing weight, the group that took 5 HTP had better blood sugar control.

This demonstrates the strong impact that 5 HTP can have on both weight loss and eating habits.

What Is The Dosage Of 5 HTP For Weight Loss?

Many people find 5 HTP extremely effective for aiding weight loss and in promoting healthy eating habits. But what is the right dose of 5 HTP to take for weight loss?

It’s recommended to take 250mg – 300mg of 5 HTP, three times a day for weight loss. This should be taken 30 minutes before eating to provide maximum effect. You should notice the effects of 5 HTP on your appetite quite quickly.

Click here for 5 HTP supplements for weight loss

Taking 5 HTP For Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition which causes pain throughout the body, as well as weakness. There’s no known cure for fibromyalgia so the condition is usually managed with painkillers.

It’s not yet understood what causes fibromyalgia. It sometimes begins after a stressful or traumatic event such as an injury, the death of a loved one or a virus. It’s also been associated with low levels of serotonin, suggesting that increasing the levels of serotonin in the body could help to ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

How Does 5 HTP Help With Fibromyalgia?

5 HTP plays an important role in the production of serotonin. The more 5 HTP that is in the body, the more serotonin is produced. With fibromyalgia linked to low serotonin levels, researchers believe that 5 HTP supplements could be useful in improving the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

In fact, several studies have shown promising results, with participants reporting reduced muscle pain, improved sleep, lower levels of anxiety and a reduction in fatigue. This suggests that 5 HTP could play a vital role in treating fibromyalgia, although more research is needed to draw solid conclusions.

What Is The Dosage Of 5 HTP For Fibromyalgia?

5 HTP is a promising supplement for treating the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. From easing muscle pains to reducing fatigue, 5 HTP could change the lives of fibromyalgia sufferers.

Research has shown that 100mg of 5 HTP should be taken 3 – 4 times per day alongside food for optimum effect when treating fibromyalgia. It could take up to two weeks to notice a difference, so don’t be concerned if it takes a while to take effect.

Buy 5 HTP supplements for fibromyalgia here

Taking 5 HTP For Migraines

Far from just being a headache, migraines are a debilitating condition which can affect your everyday life. Symptoms can include throbbing headaches, disturbed vision, sensitivity to light and nausea.

Those suffering from migraines may take preventative tablets along with taking painkillers to manage migraine attacks when they occur. Many migraine sufferers are looking for more natural ways to control their migraines.

How Does 5 HTP Help With Migraines?

No one knows exactly what causes migraines but many researchers think they may be triggered by low serotonin levels. As 5 HTP has been proven to increase serotonin levels in the brain, 5 HTP is used by many as a more natural way to control migraines.

A study of 124 people investigated the effects of 5 HTP in preventing migraine attacks. It found that taking 5 HTP supplements daily for six months significantly reduced the occurrence of migraine attacks in 71% of participants.

What Is The Dosage Of 5 HTP For Migraines?

A natural remedy to migraine attacks could change the lives of millions of people across the globe. But what dosage of 5 HTP is most effective for preventing migraines?

It’s recommended to take 100mg – 200mg of HTP, 2-3 times a day. This should be taken with meals. You’ll need to take 5 HTP supplements for around three weeks before they reach their full impact, so don’t expect to notice a difference straight away.

Click here to view 5 HTP supplements for migraines

What Is The Recommended Dose Of 5 HTP?

The recommended dose of 5 HTP will depend on your reason for using it. Each use has a different recommended dose, so you’ll need to consult the purposes above to find the right dose for your condition.

If you’re unsure what dose of 5 HTP you should be taking, it’s best to check with a doctor or pharmacist first to make sure that you don’t take too much.

Related Questions

What Are The Side Effects Of Taking 5 HTP?

Side effects of 5 HTP are uncommon, but some people report experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach pain after taking 5 HTP supplements. You can minimise these side effects by starting with a lower dose of 50mg – 100mg and gradually increasing the dose up to your required amount.

5 HTP supplements can sometimes make you feel drowsy. If this occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery until the effect wears off. If you are concerned about any side effects that you experience from taking 5 HTP, you should always consult a medical professional for advice.

Can 5 HTP Supplements Be Taken With Other Medications?

Some people choose to take 5 HTP supplements alongside other medications. However, it’s important to be aware of any interactions between the medications before you choose to do so.

There are some medications such as antidepressants, painkillers and cough remedies which increase your body’s serotonin levels. Combining these medications with 5 HTP could lead to dangerous serotonin levels in your body. It’s important to consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice before beginning to take 5 HTP supplements alongside any other medication.

What Time Of Day Should You Take 5 HTP?

The time of day that you should take 5 HTP supplements will depend on the condition you’re trying to treat. If you’re taking 5 HTP to help you to sleep, you’ll need to take it around 30 minutes before bed. If you’re taking 5 HTP for weight loss, you’ll need to take it before meal times.

Some people find that taking 5 HTP supplements can make them feel drowsy, so it may be best to take it in an evening if possible. However, this will depend on why you are choosing to take the supplement. If you find that 5 HTP makes you drowsy, avoid driving or operating machinery until the effect wears off.

Try 5 HTP Supplements Today

Whether you’re suffering from migraines, struggling with depression or anxiety or looking to lose weight, 5 HTP supplements could help. Many people swear by the natural effects of 5 HTP supplements to manage their chronic conditions and improve their wellbeing.

If you’re ready to try 5 HTP supplements, you can purchase vegan-friendly 5 HTP supplements from our online store.

5-HTP Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects

anxiety

Jul 18, 2019

by Henry Emmons, MD

[adapted from The Chemistry of Calm]

ps: Be sure to read Part 1 of this series! 

pps: some of these natural therapies are not ideal for all types of anxiety. Visit our Calm Section to learn your calm subtype and tailor your approach.

5-HTP Benefits | 5-HTP and Anxiety

5-HTP is the best studied of the “precursor strategies.” That’s a strategy where you try to increase production of a neurotransmitter by adding more of the raw materials. 5-HTP is similar to tryptophan (the amino acid that gets converted into serotonin)—5-HTP is the intermediate step in that process. Both are effective ways to boost serotonin levels, but tryptophan is more sedating so I usually reserve that for sleep problems. 5-HTP can also help sleep, but may be used during the daytime as well because it is not usually sedating. Considerable research has shown that 5-HTP can reduce anxiety, both general and panic, as well as improve mood.¹²

5-HTP Supplements**

It’s often more economical, and generally more effective, to get a product that combines several of these ingredients into a single capsule or powder. We often recommend a combination product like Relaxed Mood rather than piecing things together one nutrient at a time.

Relaxed Mood 

Relaxed Mood contains 50 mg of 5-HTP per capsule. It also provides virtually everything your brain needs to make serotonin. It helps calm an anxious mood, may improve sleep, and can reduce nervousness.

Energized Mood

Energized Mood is a combination product meant to support mood and energy by helping to rebalance healthy neurotransmitter levels, including both serotonin and dopamine.  It includes amino acid precursors and bioactive nutrients that support healthy levels of neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.

Serene Sleep

Serene Sleep contains amino acids, taurine, 5-HTP, and GABA, along with vitamins and minerals, to support a longer and deeper sleep. Phosphatidylserine is also included as a vital ingredient for those with elevated evening cortisol levels that may be contributing to frequent waking.

Soothed Mood

Soothed Mood is a combination supplement that may reduce agitation and feelings of anxiousness, while also helping to support mood.

5-HTP Dosage & Use*

Adding 5-HTP may be helpful when mood issues are present and there are signs of serotonin deficiency (visit the Calm section for more on that and your subtype). [see side effects below regarding serotonin.]

I usually recommend a starting dose of 50 mg daily, increasing every few days as tolerated. Most people do well with 100-150 mg daily, but the dose may safely go as high as 300 mg per day if needed. It is usually best to take it in 2 or 3 doses throughout the day, but if it is sedating it may all be taken at night. However, a small number of people actually have trouble sleeping from 5-HTP, and should then take it early in the day. 

5-HTP may be best absorbed if taken half an hour before meals, and that can also reduce carbohydrate craving for those who have it. But if that is a hassle or causes stomach upset, it is fine to take it with meals.

5-HTP Side Effects*

One of the primary concerns with 5-HTP is getting too much serotonin. The broad use of SSRI’s has really caused this concern and complicates the use of 5-HTP. Too much serotonin creates a condition called “serotonin syndrome,” which can be serious. Like all of the other supplements noted, do not add anything without consulting with your prescribing physician, particularly if you are already taking an SSRI.

Sedation or activation may also be experienced as noted in dosage section above.  

*Note: Some of the supplements discussed in this series can cause side effects, but many people tolerate them much better than prescription medications. They are generally considered safe, however, they should not be started without your doctor’s knowledge and supervision. If you are taking medication already, be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any of these items. If you are considering going off medication, remember never to stop your medication suddenly—always consult with your doctor about how to safely taper off any psychiatric medication.

**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  

RELATED ARTICLE

Stress is not the problem. It is unremitting stress and a constantly elevated level of cortisol that create the problems and the consequences can be severe. Read more.

SOURCES

1. Hassel, B., & Dingledine, R. (2006). Glutamate. In Siegel,G. J., Albers, R. W., Brady, S. T., & Price, D. L. (Eds.), Basic neurochemistry: Molecular, cellular, and medical aspects (267-290). San Diego, CA: Academic Press. 
2. Kim, A. H., et al. (2002). Blocking excitotoxicity. In Marcoux, F. W., & Choi, D. W. (Eds.), Neuroprotection (3-36). New York: Springer.
3. Krimer, L. S., et al. (1998). Dopaminergic regulation of cerebral cortical microcirculation. Nature Neuroscience, 1, 286-289.
4. Wichers, M., & Maes, M. (2002). The psychoneuroimmuno-pathophysiology of cytokine induced depression in humans. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, 5, 375-438.
5. Peled, R., et al. (2008). Breast cancer, psychological distress and life events among young women BMC Cancer, 8.
6. Alhaj, H. A., et al. (2006). Effects of DHEA administration on episodic memory, cortisol and mood in healthy young men: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Psychopharmacology, 188(4), 541-551.
7. Darbinyan, V., et al. (2007). Clinical trial of Rhodiola Rosea L. extract SHR-5 in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 61(5), 343-348.
8. Bystritsky, A., et al. (2008). A pilot study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax) for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(2), 175-180.
9. Khanum, F., et al. (2005). Rhodiola rosea: A versatile adaptogen. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 4, 55-62.
10. Lombard, J. (2006, September). Neurobiology of mood and cognition: Strategies and protocols of neurotransmitter balance. Presented at Great Lakes Conference.
11. Kobayashi, K., et al. (1998). Effects of L-theanine on the release of alpha-brain waves in human volunteers. Journal of the Agricultural Chemical Society of Japan, 72(2), 153-157.
12. Lake, J. (2008). Integrative Management of Anxiety. Psychiatric Times, 25(1), 13-16.
13. Grant, J., et al. (2007). N-acetyl cysteine, a glutamate-modulating agent, in the treatment of pathological gambling: A pilot study. Biological Psychiatry, 62(6), 652-657.
14. Grant, J., et al. (2009). N-acetylcysteine, a glutamate modulator, in the treatment of trichotillomania. Archives of General Psychiatry, 66(7), 756-763.
15. Mori, M., et al., (2002). Beta-alanine and taurine as endogenous agonists at glycine receptors in rat hippocampus in vitro. The Journal of Physiology, 539, 191-200.
16. Wu, H., et al. (2005). Mode of action of taurine as a neuroprotector. Brain Research, 1038(2), 123-131.
17. Palatnik, A., et al. (2001). Double-blind, controlled, crossover trial of inositol versus fluvoxamine for the treatment of panic disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 21(3), 335-339.
18. Abdou, A. , et al. (2006). Relaxation and immunity enhancement effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration in humans. BioFactors, 26, 201-208.
19. Kinrys, G., et al. (2009). Natural remedies for anxiety disorders: Potential use and clinical applications. Depression and Anxiety, 26, 259-265.
20. Akhondzadeh, S., et al. (2001). Passionflower in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: A pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial with oxazepam. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 26, 363-367.
21. Yuan, C. S., et al. (2004). The gamma-aminobutyric acidergic effects of valerian and valerenic acid on rat brainstem neuronal activity. Anesthesia and Analgesia, 98, 353-358.
22. Panijel, M. (1985). Therapy of symptoms of anxiety. Therapiewoche, 41, 4659-4668.

how to choose how to take for weight loss and better sleep

The 5-htp supplement has recently gained popularity due to its “antidepressant” properties.

5-htp (5-hydrocystriptophan or simply tryptophan) is a precursor of serotonin, which is responsible for mood stability, sleep quality, its deficiency can cause depressive disorders of varying severity.

5-htp helps to stabilize the production of serotonin, and at the same time affect mood and general emotional background.

Tryptophan has several action vectors that are successfully used in medicine:

• to reduce apathy, eliminate mild depressive episodes, and anxiety;
• with sleep disorders;
• as an aid in weight loss.

How to choose 5-htp

If you have come to the conclusion that you need this supplement, then you should remember that in severe clinical depressive and anxiety disorders, 5-htp may not have the desired effect, if only because depression is not always caused by a decrease in serotonin. For its diagnosis, a clinical study is required, which is carried out only by a specialist.

Another important point is that the use of antidepressants and other drugs cannot be combined with taking 5-htp. The same applies to alcohol.

What to look for when choosing:

1. Brand. Brand popularity plays a key role in the choice of supplement, as large manufacturers are scrupulous about their reputation and carefully monitor the quality of the product.
2. Dosage. Now there are supplements of 50, 100 and 200 mg, in connection with this, the dosage should be adjusted depending on the individual needs of the person and the goals that you are pursuing (reducing appetite, improving sleep, stabilizing the emotional background).

Popular 5-htp examples:

• 5-htp 50 mg Natrol 45 caps.
• 5-htp BE First 30 caps
• 5-htp 50 mg NOW 30 caps
• 5-htp Maxler 100mg

How 5-htp works

As mentioned above, the main purpose of tryptophan is to stimulate the synthesis of serotonin. And now let’s try to connect the chain: “tryptophan-serotonin-appetite”.

The production of this hormone is partly associated with the consumption of carbohydrate foods (or rather sugar). This is where the desire to “seize stress” comes from – we thereby stimulate the release of the “hormone of happiness” – and here lies the reason for the decrease in mood when we drastically limit the amount of carbohydrates consumed.

5-htp, helping to maintain normal serotonin levels without the help of sweets and flour products, reduces not only appetite, but also cravings for forbidden foods. Thus, our brain feels quite “happy” without provoking us to eat foods high in carbohydrates.

Another important role of serotonin is to help with sleep disorders. As an important neurotransmitter responsible for the phases of sleep and wakefulness, it affects the quality of sleep. With a lack of this hormone, insomnia develops, which provokes an unstable emotional state: irritability, nervousness, anxiety.

5-htp returns the body to a state of balance, helping to establish sleep and wake cycles, and, as a result, improve well-being.

From the foregoing, it probably becomes clear how the substance helps to fight a bad mood, mild anxiety and a melancholic state. In addition, the supplement can be taken during periods of high psycho-emotional stress, for example, before exams or during work that requires high concentration.

See prices for 5-HTP

How to receive 5-htp

At the initial stages, the dosage should not exceed 50 mg, during this period it is necessary to monitor the reaction of the body.

For a tangible effect, the dosage can be increased to 300 mg per day, divided into several doses.

The time of taking 5-htp should be carried out in accordance with the goals:

• to reduce appetite – an hour or two before eating on an empty stomach;
• to improve sleep – just before bedtime;
• to improve the general psycho-emotional state – at any time of the day.

Other nuances that help improve absorption:

• can be taken two hours before meals or two hours after;
• reception can be combined with high-carbohydrate food;
• before taking the supplement, it is better to take a meal with a high protein content;
• can be taken along with vitamins B and C, as well as magnesium to enhance the effect.

See prices for 5-HTP

Attention! The article is written for educational purposes, it is not a medical recommendation. Before use, be sure to consult a specialist!

5 HTP: application, dosage, contraindications

Modern man is in the grip of constant stress, works hard and is often deprived of the opportunity to lead a proper lifestyle. Many people try to influence their well-being with stimulants instead of providing the body with vitamins and amino acids, primarily 5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan (oxytriptan).

How 5-HTP works in the body

5 HTP is an amino acid that is part of the proteins required for the normal functioning of the body. It is interchangeable. In the human body, this amino acid is synthesized from tryptophan. The latter enters the body from food or through the use of dietary supplements.

Significant amounts of tryptophan are found in cottage cheese, milk, cheese, bananas, legumes and nuts. It enters the body with beef, lamb and poultry. Tryptophan is also present in some types of fish – mackerel, halibut, salmon, cod. The record holder for its content is black and red caviar.

The amino acid 5-HTP synthesized from tryptophan is converted into the hormone serotonin. If enough of this hormone is produced, then a person’s susceptibility to stress decreases. He gets rid of feelings of anxiety and depression.

Attention! Oxytriptan helps to get rid of insomnia and drowsiness during the daytime, as it normalizes the synthesis of melatonin, which is responsible for regulating sleep and wakefulness cycles.

We present to your attention the innovative complex Stress Re. Live – Siberian Super Natural Nutrition to protect the nervous system and prevent stress, normalize sleep and improve mood. The composition contains magnesium in an organic form with glycine, lactoprotein and the amino acid L-theanine, as well as a complex of the most effective plants that stabilize the emotional background.

Benefit

The benefit of the amino acid 5-HTP is to normalize melatonin and serotonin levels. As a result:

• a person’s emotional state and sleep are normalized;
• disappear depressive phenomena, apathy, irritability;
• headaches and migraines disappear;
• improves mood and health;
• people receive a charge of vivacity and additional strength;
• relieves the condition with PMS.

Attention! Including 5-HTP preparations in the diet is easier to part with bad habits.

Dosage

There is no official daily dosage for 5-HTP. Experts estimate that 50 to 300 mg of 5-HTP can be used to increase stress tolerance and improve well-being. Be sure to strictly follow the instructions for the drug you are taking.

Admission Rules

5-HTP should be started at a dose of 50-100 mg per day. It is consumed in 1 dose, in the afternoon, 30-40 minutes before meals. However, the last recommendation does not apply to those who want to lose weight. They must take this drug with food.

Attention! If depression has not receded, insomnia continues to torment, other signs of an amino acid deficiency are observed, then the dosage or number of doses of the drug should be gradually increased, following the instructions.

Amino acids are rich in natural Nutrient cocktail Hazelnut and green buckwheat from the YooGo line of operational nutrition. In addition to amino acids, it contains vitamins and healthy fats. Each serving is a complete healthy snack filled with dietary fiber, omega-3 PUFAs, protein and L-carnitine. A balanced composition provides the body with vital nutrients and helps to maintain a feeling of satiety for a long time.

Contraindications and side effects

Dietary supplements with 5-HTP amino acid are not recommended for:

Attention! Doctors have not agreed on whether expectant mothers and women who are breastfeeding an infant can take 5-tryptophan. There are cases when the use of 5-tryptophan-containing drugs caused complications.

An overdose of 5-HTP may cause side effects such as:

• restless sleep;
• decreased libido;
• nausea and vomiting;
• pain in the stomach.

As with any dietary supplement, consult your physician before taking the amino acid 5-HTP.