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5-HTP
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan or 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan) is a natural supplement that converts in the brain into serotonin, one of the most powerful neurotransmitters in your body. Serotonin helps to regulate mood, behavior, appetite, and sleep.
Our body may produce 5-HTP from the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid; that is, the body does not have the capacity to synthesize it. All the supply of tryptophan must be gotten through foods that contain protein.
Our product 5-HTP is extracted from the Griffonia seed. The seeds come from an African tree grown mostly in Ghana and the Ivory Coast.
5-HTP can also be made synthetically in the laboratory. The final product is the same as the one made by the body.
Short term side effects from high doses of 5-HTP include nausea and vomiting, stomach cramps, nightmares, and decreased sex drive. Serotonin has an inhibitory effect on sexual behavior.
Dosage
Most 5-HTP products on the market are sold in 50 and 100 mg doses. Some people do well with 20 to 50 mg. Medical supervision is recommended for if high doses are required to treat a particular condition. 5-HTP is best absorbed on an empty stomach.
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