5-Hydroxytryptophan (formerly Griffonia) Details
Serotonin levels in the body regulate sleep, mood, and appetite. Balanced serotonin supports restful sleep and a positive mood. You can maintain healthy serotonin levels in several ways. L-tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) act as precursors to serotonin. Supplementing with 5-HTP proves preferable; unlike L-tryptophan, 5-HTP does not divert into other uses, such as niacin or protein production. 5-HTP absorbs well and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier, increasing serotonin synthesis in the central nervous system. You can take 5-HTP with meals without losing effectiveness.
When taken orally, 5-HTP absorbs well, with about 70 percent entering the bloodstream. Intestinal absorption does not require a transport molecule and remains unaffected by other amino acids, allowing 5-HTP to integrate smoothly with meals. Research shows 5-HTP benefits mood, sleep, carbohydrate cravings, and fatigue-related discomfort. Studies with individuals experiencing negative mood indicate significant positive responses with 50-300 mg of 5-HTP daily.
To enhance serotonin production, Thorne’s 5-HTP formula includes pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, the active form of vitamin B6, a necessary cofactor for converting 5-HTP to serotonin. Manufacturers extract 5-HTP from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia. Each lot undergoes thorough testing for contaminants, including Peak X, and remains Peak X free.
How to Use
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 professional for use beyond one 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 professional. 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 professional. Take 30-45 minutes before bedtime.
Warnings
Risk Information: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional prior to use. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a health professional. Consult a health professional if sleeplessness persists continuously for more than 3 weeks (chronic insomnia). Consult a health professional 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 professional 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.
