Pure Encapsulations Seroplus - 120 V-Caps

PURE ENCAPSULATIONS SERO PLUS
Comprehensive support for healthy mood balance

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.

Warning: Do not use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have scleroderma. Consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use 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 medica- tion and anti-migraine medication. Consult a healthcare practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen. Discontinue use and consult a healthcare practitioner if you show signs of weakness, oral ulcers, abdominal pain accompanied by severe muscle pain, or experience skin changes. Some people may experience drowsiness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Exercise caution if operating heavy machinery, driving a motor vehicle or involved in activities requiring mental alertness. Folic acid supplementation may mask a B12 deficiency; ask your healthcare practitioner if you are taking sufficient B12.