Pure Encapsulations 5-HTP 100mg - 60 V-Caps

5-HTP (5-HYDROXYTRYPTOPHAN) 100MG from Pure Encapsulations

Cautions: Consult a healthcare practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you are taking carbidopa or drugs/supplements with serotonergic activity. These may include, but are not limited to, L-tryptophan, S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), St. John’s wort, antidepressants, pain killers, over the counter cough and cold medication containing dextromethorphan, anti-nausea medication and anti-migraine medication. Discontinue use and consult a healthcare practitioner if you show signs of weakness, oral ulcers, or abdominal pain accompanied by severe muscle pain or if you experience skin changes. Sleep Aid: Consult a healthcare practitioner if sleeplessness persists continuously for more than 3 weeks (chronic insomnia). Do not use if you have scleroderma. Known adverse reactions: Some people may experience drowsiness. Exercise caution if operating heavy machinery, driving a motor vehicle or involved in activities requiring mental alertness. Some people may experience diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

5-Htp
By: Articles by a Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.)

This natural mood support can also allow you to sleep better and curb your appetite ...

5-HTP is a precursor to the neurotransmitter hormones serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is a hormone that regulates: mood, behaviour, appetite, dilation of blood vessels and many other body processes. Serotonin is released in response to fullness and regulates appetite. It is also the neurotransmitter associated with feelings of well-being and happiness. melatonin regulates the body's sleep/wake cycles. Optimal levels of melatonin allow us to have a restful and restorative sleep.

5-HTP is recommended by natural health practitioners for insomnia, jet lag, aging, cancer, frequent colds and flus, PMS, memory loss, arteriosclerosis, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, headaches, migraines, obesity, fibromyalgia, stress, anxiety, and depression.

Serotonin, stress, and Appetite
Deficiency of serotonin can lead to overeating and obesity. This also accounts for the fact that when we are under stress our appetite tends to change. Some people become deficient in serotonin and gain weight because they overeat. Others lose their appetite partly because their brain is reacting to high levels of serotonin released in response to the stressful time.

Antidepressant and Anti-migraine
5-HTP has been tested against tricyclic antidepressants and Prozac in clinical trials for its ability to alleviate depression and was found to be the equivalent or better to commonly used doses of these prescription medications. Serotonin also decreases the diameter of blood vessels. This is helpful in headaches and migraines that are caused by increased blood flow in the brain.

Melatonin and Sleep
In addition to sleep cycles, melatonin also cues the body to release growth hormone and sex hormones, which are used during sleep to repair body tissues and normalize hormone levels. Finally, melatonin is an antioxidant that protects tissue by neutralizing damaging free radicals. Interestingly, the amount of melatonin produced by the body naturally declines as we age, and this is thought to be one of the causes of age-related diseases. Supplementing with 5-HTP may be a means to prevent this age-related decline by naturally boosting melatonin levels.

How can I take 5-HTP?
5-HTP can be purchased in tablets or capsules, either in its purified form or as an herbal preparation of griffonia (Griffonia simplicifolia). Taking your supplement with a high-carbohydrate food or drink, like juice, will increase its absorption. Dosages range between 50 and 300mg daily. It is generally a good idea to start at the lower end of the dosage range and work to your required dosage.

5-Htp - Quick Facts

Sources
· Protein Via Tryptophan, Griffonia Plant.

Applications
· Anxiety, Depression, Fibromyalgia, Headaches, Migraines, Obesity, Insomnia, Mood Support

Optimum Dosage
· 50-300mg Daily. (Clinical Doses May Be Higher As Recommended By Your Practitioner).

Works Well With
· Vitamin B6, Protein Supplements

Important Information
· Excessive Use Of 5-Htp Alters The Levels Of Some Immune Cells, So Regular Monitoring With Blood Tests Is Recommended For Long-Term Use.
· Do Not Use 5-Htp If You Are Pregnant, Nursing, Have Autoimmune Disease Or Cancers Of The Immune System.
· 5-Htp Interacts With Antidepressant Medication.
· 5-Htp Has Improved Effects When Taken With St. John’s Wort, Same And Tryptophan.
· Some Individuals May Get Irritation In The Digestive Tract From Using 5-Htp.