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| It doesn't require a prescription. 5-HTP is a naturally-occuring substance derived from the seed pods of Griffonia simplicifolia, a West African medicinal plant. Function; Reasons For Use Tryptophan is metabolized into niacin, melatonin and serotonin and has relaxing and calming effects. Chromium picolinate helps to promote conversion of tryptophan to serotonin. In humans, 5-HTP is the immediated nutrient precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin production declines with age, and at any age its abundance can be compromised further by stress. They can also lead to various other complaints and disorders, diminishing one's quality of life. For depression, 1000-1500mg bid raises serotonin levels but it may take 2 weeks to produce results. It has been shown most helpful for dental pain, headaches (migraines in particular), and cancer pain, often in conjunction with aspirin or acetaminophen. Tryptophan appears to increase the pain threshold. Tryptophan works better for acute insomnia than for chronic sleep problems. Tryptophan may help treat anorexia by increasing the appetite. Directions The RDA for tryptophan is 0.2gm per day, while the average daily intake is 1-1.5gm per day. Tryptophan is often given with vitamin B6 and magnesium in between meals with a small amount of carbohydrate to facilitate uptake by the brain. L-Tryptophan (which is the desired form) is converted to 5HTP before becoming serotonin; taking 5HTP bypasses this first step of the process. The effectiveness of 5HTP may be increased with gingko biloba, St. John's Wort, B-complex vitamins with magnesium, tyrosine, flax seed oil, and ginger. Doses of 100mg tid have been used, but it may be best to start at a lower dose and slowly increase as the side-effect of nausea can occur at higher doses. Side-Effects; Counter-Indicators Generally, side-effects of tryptophan are negligible, and tryptophan does not distort sleep patterns until more than 10gm are taken. |
| Problems Caused By Being Overweight Depression Insomnia Low Serotonin Level Night Eating Syndrome Restless Leg Syndrome Tourette's Syndrome Tryptophan Need |