5 Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)

Posted on 2005-12-30 20:01:01 in Amino Acids |

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The body uses 5 hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP to manufacture the neurotransmitter serotonin. Due to its effects upon serotonin levels, 5HT is often used as an antidepressant.

ROLE IN ANTI-AGING:

5HT’s use antidepressant effects are well-documented. Some studies have also suggested that the supplement may help to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, however this benefit of 5HT has not been clinically proven. Recent findings have also indicated that 5HT may help to relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:

Not applicable

THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:

100 to 200 mg of 5HT 3 times daily is the recommended initial dose; however once 5HT starts to work the dosages can usually be reduced.

MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established

SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:

5HT should not be used alongside the Parkinson’s drug carbidopa as it can cause skin changes similar to those that seen with the disease scleroderma. 5-HTP should not be combined with drugs that raise serotonin levels, for example SSRIs (e.g., Prozac), and other antidepressants. People with kidney disease or liver disease should consult their doctor before taking 5-HTP.

Note: See Oxitriptan (Hormones & Pharmacological Agents)

Health Headlines MORE »

Fiber May Reduce Breast Cancer Risk
For every 10 g per day increase in soluble fiber intake, a woman may reduce her risk of breast cancer by up to 26%.
Soy Protein Boosts Brain Function
Peptides from soybeans modulate neurotransmitters, thereby helping to boost circulation in the brain.
Pepper Compounds for Weight Management
Capsaicin (found in hot peppers) and capsiates (present in sweet peppers) exert modest weight management benefits.
Americans Lag in Preventive Screenings
While over 20% of U.S. adults receive periodic health examinations each year, many do not receive recommended preventive screening tests and counseling services
The Stress – Obesity Connection
Researchers from Norway suggest a mechanism by which stress may make a person fat, and being obese may create stress.
Lack of Sleep Triggers Hunger
Swedish researchers report that people who are short on sleep experience greater levels of hunger.
Knock Out Anxiety
Among women with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), regular physical activity helps to reduce anxiety, irritability, feelings of tension, low energy and pain.
Magnesium Helps to Reduce Stroke Risk
For every 100 mg per-day increase in magnesium in the diet, stroke risk may decline by up to 9%.
Senior Runners Continue to Excel
The best male marathon runners over age 65, and the best female marathon runners over age 45, continue to consistently improve their performance.
Stem Cell Therapy Restores Vision
UCLA-led team safely uses human embryonic stem cells to treat macular degeneration.
Anti-Aging Forum Anti-Aging Forum Anti-Aging Forum Anti-Aging Forum
Anti-Aging textbook Anti-Aging Forum MLDP Anti-aging jobs Join A4M
ANTI-AGING TIP OF THE DAY
In Working Order
Men and women who stay mentally engaged in their original occupational field fare after retirement fare best mentally. University of Maryland (Maryland, USA) researchers studied 12,189 retired men and women, ages 51 to 61 years at the beginning of the study. The team revealed that those retirees who continued to work in a bridge job experienced fewer major diseases...
» MORE