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What is 5-HTP?
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid which is used to regulate serotonin levels in brain and central nervous system. Serotonin is a hormone that acts both as a chemical messenger that transmits nerve signals between nerve cells and that causes blood vessels to narrow. Changes in the serotonin levels in the brain can alter mood, hunger and fatigue. 5-HTP is found in African Griffonia Seeds (griffonia simplicifolia) as well as food such as cheese and turkey.

How is 5-HTP used?
5-HTP is often used as a treatment for depression and other mood disorders because of its ability to regulate ones serotonin levels. Medquest pharmacy states that when 100mg of 5-HTP is taken three times a day for an extended period of time it showed a 50 % improvement in depressed patients.

5-HTP is used to assist weight loss. However, a study by Schwarz, Young, and Brown doesn't claim this. They state that it is decrease in appetite that results in weight loss.

5-HTP is also used as an aid to weight loss. However a study by Schwarz, Young, and Brown does not claim that 5-HTP will actually help with sleeping disorders even though increased meletonin levels are proven to help induce sleep.

It has been stated that 5-HTP in conjunction with a high carbohydrate diet can lower blood pressure. The study by Schwarz, Young, and Brown showed a 6% decrease in blood pressure when 5-HTP is used.

Some have also stated that 5-HTP can also help panic attacks. However, there is little evidence to support this.

Possible side effects:
-An upset stomach
-Headaches
-Constipation
-Muscle Pain
-Nausea

Caution:
-Always consult a doctor before using 5-HTP

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