5-HTP (L-tryptophan or 5 Hydroxytryptophan) acts as an antioxidant and is the direct precursor of serotonin and melatonin. 5-HTP is produced in the body and is part of the serotonin production process. If serotonin levels in the body are low, you may experience difficulty sleeping. Taking 5-HTP helps your body produce serotonin, making it easier to fall asleep and sleep better.
Causes of poor sleep
Serotonin deficiency in the brain can cause sleep problems. Serotonin is known as one of the happiness hormones. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that influences various functions of the body. Communication between the cells in your brain is provided by neurotransmitters, among which serotonin is included, along with dopamine, oxytocin, and adrenaline, among others. If your body does not produce enough serotonin, you may experience sleep problems. You have difficulty falling asleep and struggle to sleep through the night. In addition to sleep problems, depressive symptoms and anxiety are also common causes of low serotonin levels. This lack of serotonin may be due to the signals exchanged by this neurotransmitter being disrupted along the way. There are also people who naturally produce less serotonin. Prolonged stress, deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals, and the consumption of caffeine and alcohol can also negatively affect serotonin levels.
The effect of 5-HTP
5-HTP has a positive effect on serotonin levels. 5-HTP is part of the serotonin production process in the human body and can also be taken as a supplement to help the body produce serotonin. In addition to increasing serotonin levels, 5-HTP has a positive influence on other neurotransmitters such as dopamine and adrenaline.
What is 5-HTP?
5-HTP is a derivative of the amino acid tryptophan. This amino acid is also found in protein-rich foods such as chicken, beef, fish, and dairy products. Tryptophan is converted into 5-HTP, which in turn is converted into serotonin. 5-HTP is available as a supplement. The ingredient is extracted from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia Simplicifolia. After this three-meter plant blooms, pods grow. The seeds are harvested from these dark pods. Traditionally, the seeds have been used as an aphrodisiac and as a remedy for diarrhea and inflammation. The leaves are used to heal wounds.
The use of 5-HTP
This natural amino acid is available in both capsule and tablet form. It is often used to treat mood disorders and is taken during the day. Its use in combination with sedatives and antidepressants is not recommended. For sleep disorders, take a single dose at night, on an empty stomach, before going to bed. This supplement has the same effect as the amino acid your own body produces. In this way, you support the production of serotonin.
