Thorne 5-Hydroxytryptophan 90 Capsules

The serotonin levels in the body are associated with the regulation of sleep, mood, and appetite. A balanced serotonin level has been shown to support restful sleep, good mood, and decreased sugar cravings.* There are several ways to support a healthy serotonin level. L-tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) are both precursors to serotonin. However, supplementation with 5-HTP is preferable, because unlike L-tryptophan, 5-HTP cannot be shunted into other uses in the body, such as niacin or protein production. 5-HTP is well absorbed by the body and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier where it can increase the synthesis of serotonin in the central nervous system.* And 5-HTP can be taken with meals without reducing its effectiveness.*

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the intermediate metabolite the body produces when it initiates the process of converting the essential amino acid L-tryptophan to serotonin. Therefore, supplementation with 5-HTP will bypass the conversion of L-tryptophan into 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase – which is the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of serotonin – and is a conversion that can be inhibited by a number of factors, including stress, insulin resistance, increasing age, and deficiencies of vitamin C, folate, and iron.* 5-HTP is well absorbed when taken orally, with about 70 percent going into the bloodstream.* Intestinal absorption of 5-HTP does not require the presence of a transport molecule, and its absorption is not affected by the presence of other amino acids; therefore, 5-HTP can be taken with meals without reducing its effectiveness. 5-HTP has been shown to have a beneficial impact on mood, sleep, carbohydrate cravings, and discomfort associated with fatigue.* Numerous studies of individuals with negative mood status have shown significant positive response with 50-300 mg of 5-HTP daily.*

To further facilitate serotonin production, Thorne's 5-HTP formula contains pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, the active form of vitamin B6 and the necessary cofactor for the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin. 5-HTP is commercially produced by extraction from the seeds of the African plant, Griffonia simplicifolia.

Each lot is thoroughly tested for contaminants, including Peak X, and is Peak X free. Recommended Use or Purpose (Adults):
Helps to promote healthy mood balance and used as a sleep aid. Use for a minimum of 1 week to see beneficial effects. Consult a health-care practitioner for use beyond 1 year.

Recommended Dose (Adults):
Take with food.
To promote healthy mood balance - Take 1-2 capsules three times daily or as recommended by a health-care practitioner. To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, start dosing at 1 capsule three times daily and slowly increase to effective dose over a period of 2 weeks.
For use as a sleep aid – Take 2-4 capsules daily or as recommended by a health-care practitioner. Take 30-45 minutes before bedtime. Risk Information:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health-care practitioner prior to use. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a health-care practitioner. Consult a health-care practitioner if sleeplessness persists continuously for more than 3 weeks (chronic insomnia). Consult a health-care 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 medication and anti-migraine medication. Some people may experience diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Discontinue use and consult a health-care practitioner if you show signs of weakness, oral ulcers, or abdominal pain accompanied by severe muscle pain or if you experience skin changes. Do not use if you have scleroderma. Some people may experience drowsiness. Exercise caution if operating heavy machinery, driving a motor vehicle or are involved in activities requiring mental alertness.

Keep out of reach of children. Do not use if security seal inside the cap is broken. Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place.