5-HTP is a precursor of serotonin, a neurotransmitter. The seeds of the Griffonia simplicifolia plant are used to make commercially available 5-HTP capsules. 5-HTP has been proposed as a cure for a variety of ailments. 5-HTP has been used to treat cerebellar ataxia, headaches, depression, psychological conditions, and fibromyalgia, as well as an appetite suppressant and weight loss agent, according to some studies.
Some say that supplementing with 5-HTP will increase serotonin levels in the body. Serotonin deficiency has historically been linked to several medical issues, including depression. As a result, some doctors recommend taking 5-HTP in addition to regular prescriptions in some cases.
Helps with sleep: Several pieces of research on the health effects of 5-HTP and sleep have used animal models. A 2018 research on fruit flies, mice, and rats looked at 5-HTP and gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) effects. The researchers gave the GABA/5-HTP mixture after inducing sleeplessness with caffeine. They discovered that the combination could induce sleep and improved the quality and duration of sleep. Another review of sleep-related therapies realized that 5-HTP could be helpful in the treatment of arousal conditions like sleep terrors and sleepwalking.
Helps with weight: 5-HTP will make you feel more satisfied, leading to you eating less and losing weight. Weight loss stimulates the development of hunger-stimulating hormones. Constant hunger can make it difficult to sustain weight loss over time. By counteracting these hunger-inducing hormones, 5-HTP can help to reduce appetite and aid weight loss.
Additionally, 5-HTP inhibited the intake of carbohydrates-derived calories, which was related to better blood sugar control. Many other studies have found that 5-HTP improves feelings of fullness and aids weight loss in overweight and obese people. Furthermore, animal studies have shown that 5-HTP can help reduce stress or depression-related overeating.
Headaches: Migraines are throbbing headaches that are frequently accompanied by nausea or blurred vision. 5-HTP is said to help with migraines. Although the exact cause is unknown, some researchers suspect that low serotonin levels are to blame. The ability of 5-HTP and methysergide, a common migraine drug, to prevent migraines was compared in a 124-person study. It was discovered that taking 5-HTP daily for six months avoided or substantially reduced the number of migraine attacks in 71% of those who took part. Seventy-one percent of those who took part in the study found that taking 5-HTP every day for six months prevented or significantly decreased the number of migraine attacks.
Depression: Numerous human studies suggest that 5-HTP may be useful in the treatment of depression. However, it is unknown whether 5-HTP is as effective as commonly used antidepressant medications.
Cerebellar ataxia: 5-HTP has been shown to help some people who have difficulty standing or walking due to cerebellar ataxia. However, current evidence is conflicting.
Alcoholism: Early research suggests that 5-HTP may alleviate the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. More research is required before a conclusion can be reached.
5-HTP capsules have been related to minor side effects, but these can be avoided by beginning with lower doses and gradually growing them. Owing to the possibility of side effects and drug reactions, dietary supplements can only be taken under the supervision of your health care provider. This would help to prevent any adverse reactions. Supplements should be obtained from a reputable source and stored according to the instructions on the box.
5-HTP Capsules and their uses
