Healthy Origins 5-HTP 50 mg 120 Capsules

Healthy Origins® 5-HTP is a naturally occuring standardized extract of Griffonia simplicifolia containing greater than 99% pure 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). Extracts of Griffonia simplicifolia have been used traditionally in Aftican medicine to inhibit diarrhea, vomiting and constipation, and as an aphrodisiac. 5-HTP is a precursor of serotonin (5-HT).

The diverse physiological funtions of serotonin in the body include actions as a neurotransmitter, a regulator of smooth mscle function in the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal system, and a regulator of platelet function. Serotonin is involved in numerous central nervous system actions such as regulating mood, sleep and appetite. In the gastrointestinal system, serotonin stimulates gastric motility. Serotonin also stimulates platelet aggregation.

As a precursor of serotonin, 5-HTP helps to normalize serotonin activity in the body. Considerable research has been conducted regarding the activity of 5-HTP. Some of the clinical studies are summarized below:

MOOD - Dysregulation of serotonin metabolism in the central nervous system has been shown to affect mood. 5-HTP helps to normalize serotonin levels and, thereby positively affect mood. In a double-blind study using objective assessments of mood, researchers in Zurich reported significant improvements in mood with 5-HTP. 1 Likewise, in a double-blind, multi-center study in Germany, researchers reported significant improvements in both objective and self-assessment indices of mood. 2

SLEEP - Many studies have shown that depletion of serotonin results in insomnia, which is reversed by administration of 5-HTP. Likewise, Soulairac and Lambinet3 reported that 100mg of 5-HTP resulted in significant improvement for people who complained of trouble sleeping. Furthermore, serotonin is metabolized to the hormone melatonin, which is known to help regulate the sleep cycle, by increasing serotonin levels with 5-HTP, melatonin levels are also increased.

APPETITE - Food intake is thought to suppress appetite through the production of serotonin from the amino acid tryptophan. Because it is an intermediary in the conversion process of tryptophan to serotonin, 5-HTP may reduce appetite in a similar manner as food intake, but without the calories. In a recent double-blind, placebo-controlled study, subjects taking 5-HTP lost significant weight compared to control subjects. A reduction in carbohydrate intake and early satiety were seen in the 5-HTP group.4

Directions
As a dietary supplement; take one capsule with a glass of water once or twice daily.

Warnings
Do not use if you are pregnant; nursing or are taking MAO inhibitor medication. May cause drowsiness; consult your health care practitioner if you have high blood pressure or if you have medical condition. Not intended to be taken by anyone under the age of 18.

Healthy Origins 5-HTP 50 mg - 120 Capsules

Serving Size: 1 Capsule
Servings per container: 120

Ingredients:

Amount Per Serving

% Daily Value*


5-HTP (5 - Hydroxytryptophan)	50mg	**

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
**Daily Value not established.