5HTTP Helps Cravings

July 19th, 2011 by Cathy Herold

5HTTP, which is also referred to as 5-HTP and 5-Hydroxytryptophan is a mood elevating amino acid supplement that helps dieters lose weight. The supplement is known for improving the symptoms of depression. Besides helping people with weight loss and depression, 5HTTP may also help those who who have sleep problems, hormonal issues and headaches.

The way 5HTTP works is by boosting serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter or a chemical in which the brain uses to communicate with nerve cells. If serotonin levels drop, people typically start feeling symptoms like cravings for mostly high-carbohydrate and sugary foods. People may also start feeling depressed. The body produces serotonin naturally, but when the body’s levels of serotonin drop this usually happens from a lot of stress.

Many studies have shown that 5HTTP has a lot of health benefits for dieters. In one four-month long study, participants reported that while taking 5HTTP their cravings for high-carbohydrate and sugary foods significantly decreased. This is excellent news for people who tend to indulge in emotional and sometimes uncontrollable overeating.

In another study, 5HTTP supplements were found to delay the progression of type 2 diabetes because the participants reported having less desire for high caloric and fattening foods. The average or typical dosage for 5HTTP is 50 to 100 mg three times per day.

It has also been reported that 5HTTP supplements possibly help other conditions associated with low levels of serotonin such as tension, migraine headaches, hot flashes and fibromyalgia. 5HTTP is also an antioxidant, which helps people feel in general better overall physically and emotionally.

Scientific research studies have revealed that 5HTTP is more safe than other serotonin related medications; however, it’s important to keep in mind that there have been some side effects reported with the consumption of 5HTTP such as vivid dreams, sleeping habit changes, heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, muscle problems, diarrhea and sexual problems.

Always remember it’s very important to see your doctor before taking any supplements. People who are already taking medication for anxiety or depression should be extremely cautious about interactions with their medication and 5HTTP. While many health experts state 5HTTP is safe and effective, in general companies that produce supplements are not required to get FDA approval to market and sell their products, so their claims may be questionable. Always purchase supplements from reputable companies.

In addition you can find more information about 5HTTP at Best Way to Lose Weight Headquarters where information about 5HTTP is supported by research.