Description
*Thorne has increased prices effectively February 2024
Serotonin levels in the body are associated with the regulation of sleep, mood, and appetite. A balanced serotonin level has been shown to support restful sleep, good mood, and decreased sugar cravings.
There are several ways to support a healthy serotonin level. L-tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) are both precursors to serotonin. However, supplementation with 5-HTP is preferable, because unlike L-tryptophan, 5-HTP cannot be shunted into other uses in the body, such as niacin or protein production. 5-HTP is well absorbed by the body and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier where it can increase the synthesis of serotonin in the central nervous system. And 5-HTP can be taken with meals without reducing its effectiveness.
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the intermediate metabolite the body produces when it initiates the process of converting the essential amino acid L-tryptophan to serotonin. Therefore, supplementation with 5-HTP will bypass the conversion of L-tryptophan into 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase – which is the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of serotonin – and is a conversion that can be inhibited by a number of factors, including stress, insulin resistance, increasing age, and deficiencies of vitamin C, folate, and iron.
5-HTP is well absorbed when taken orally, with about 70 percent going into the bloodstream. Intestinal absorption of 5-HTP does not require the presence of a transport molecule, and its absorption is not affected by the presence of other amino acids; therefore, 5-HTP can be taken with meals without reducing its effectiveness. 5-HTP has been shown to have a beneficial impact on mood, sleep, carbohydrate cravings, and discomfort associated with fatigue. Numerous studies of individuals with negative mood status have shown significant positive response with 50-300 mg of 5-HTP daily.
To further facilitate serotonin production, Thorne’s 5-HTP formula contains pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, the active form of vitamin B6 and the necessary cofactor for the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin. 5-HTP is commercially produced by extraction from the seeds of the African plant, Griffonia simplicifolia.
Directions: Take 1-2 capsules three times daily or as recommended by your health professional.
| Name | Amount |
|---|---|
| 5-Hydroxytryptophan | 100mg |
| Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxal 5′-Phosphate) | 6.8mg |
| Other Ingredients: Hypromellose Capsule, Leucine, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Silicon Dioxide |
Allergy Warning: This product is contraindicated in an individual with a history of hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients.
Pregnancy Warning: If pregnant or nursing, do not use this product.
Interactions/Contraindications: 5-Hydroxytryptophan should be used with caution in an individual currently being treated with an SSRI, MAO inhibitor, or other antidepressant medication.
Disclaimer: The information on Confidere & Co’s website is not intended to self diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult with a health care practitioner or doctor if you have any pre-existing medical condition or currently taking medication. Confidere & Co recommends you always read the label, warnings and interactions before use. Follow the directions and only use as directed. If symptoms persist please consult with a health care practitioner.
