5-Hydroxytryptophan [5-HTP] (90 Capsules)

Introduction of L-tryptophan:
L-tryptophan is an amino acid essential to human metabolism because it is the metabolic precursor of serotonin (a neurotransmitter), melatonin (a neurohormone), and niacin (vitamin B3).* Other neurotransmitters and central nervous system chemicals, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and beta-endorphin, have been shown to increase following oral administration of tryptophan.* Because of its effects on serotonin and melatonin production in the brain, L-tryptophan supplementation can benefit mood and can also promote relaxation, a benefit for individuals attempting to get to sleep.*

Introduction of  5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP):
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the intermediate metabolite produced when the body initiates the process of converting the essential amino acid L-tryptophan to serotonin. Serotonin levels in the body are associated with the regulation of sleep, mood, aggression, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation.*

Supplementing with 5-HTP to facilitate serotonin production is preferable to supplementing with L-tryptophan because, unlike L-tryptophan, 5-HTP cannot be shunted into niacin or protein production.* Supplementation with 5-HTP bypasses the conversion of L-tryptophan into 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase, the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of serotonin and a step that can be inhibited by a number of factors, including stress, insulin resistance, increasing age, and deficiencies of vitamin C, folate, and iron.