Winter Blues

So, let’s start with the basics. ‘Serotonin’ is the word that gets this article underway, a naturally occurring substance that is found in the brain. Serotonin positively affects people’s behaviour, sleep, mood and appetite. It is actually present in the body. But because of stress and other lifestyle issues, including the effects of inclement weather, the level of serotonin decreases. Health issues that are associated with low serotonin levels may include migraines, obesity and the craving for carbohydrates, depression, fibromyalgia and since certain kinds of serotonin convert to melatonin, low levels of Serotonin are also connected to sleep problems such as insomnia.

Thus it is easy for us to see that Serotonin is a necessary for us to enjoy healthy and ‘blues-free’ living. With our body lacking Serotonin, it may incur impaired psychological, physiological and even sexual function. This brings us to 5HTP and what it can help us overcome in the situation of low Serotonin. 5 HTP, or as it is more commonly known, 5-Hydroxytryptophan, works by converting within the brain into the essential chemical - serotonin.

The normal process for the body to stock up on Serotonin is by taking in (eating) protein, which is high in tryptophan, this is then converted by the body into 5-HTP, which in turns stimulates the production of serotonin. It is possible to try and load up on protein rich food to try to increase the level of tryptophan and consequently 5HTP in your body. This however does not increase 5-HTP levels all that much. The great news is that 5 HTP is naturally present in a plant called Griffonia Simplicifolia. The seeds of this Western African plant can be processed as a supplement. This supplement can bring about, in those low in serotonin, the following:

5 HTP Supplement Benefits

Mood Disorders and depression. 5-HTP is believed to be an effective mood enhancer, especially with people who have mild to moderate depression. This is particularly true for some people who don’t respond to the usual slew of antidepressant medications. The presence of adequate serotonin is said to be responsible for marked improvements in mood and overall disposition. Not to be taken with medically prescribed antidepressants unless under medical supervision.

Weight loss. Ever had those mad cravings for sugar and carbohydrates? Well 5-HTP supplement actually helps put a stop to your craving. No need to struggle about thoughts of ‘scoffing’ another carton of ice cream, boxes of chockies or about indulging in a super burger. 5 HTP enables you to eat just the right amount of food to help you maintain your weight and even keep it down.

Insomnia. 5-HTP actually works better than melatonin in resolving the curse of sleep deprivation. Clinical studies have proven that 5 HTP supplement promotes better sleep quality to those who experience insomnia. You’ll find that your sleeping patterns will improve rapidly.

Headaches. Stress triggered headaches and many other form of headaches may also be helped by 5-HTP. Research suggests that 5 HTP prevents such headaches from happening and maybe a better alternative than over the counter drug therapy.

Fibromyalgia. This condition causes a widespread pain to many sufferers by causing prolonged stiffness and sensitivity in the body. Studies show a marked improvement for those who suffered from fibromyalgia after they took the recommended 5 HTP dosage.

Overall 5-HTP is a marvelous stand alone supplement that you can take to help improve your health and wellbeing. Suggested use is to take 50mg to 100mg of 5-HTP approximately one hour before going to bed.

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