Description:
The human brain is a complicated structure that relies on multiple chemicals to communicate information. For example, the neurotransmitter serotonin plays a significant role in mental health, temperature regulation and pain sensation, while the hormone melatonin is needed to regulate the circadian rhythm. As one can imagine, any nutrients that can support these brain chemicals have vast therapeutic potential. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is one such nutrient, as it is the direct precursor to serotonin and, subsequently, melatonin.
5-HTP is most notably used to support healthy mood balance. Yet, its ability to up-regulate serotonin provides application in many other conditions with mental and psychological components. Numerous research trials have found that 5-HTP can also improve sleep difficulties, binge eating, weight management, headaches and fibromyalgia.
The conversion of 5-HTP into serotonin requires vitamin B-6 as a cofactor, just as the synthesis of GABA and dopamine also require vitamin B6. This is thought to explain why vitamin B-6 as a standalone treatment has shown to be beneficial in treating premenstrual symptoms, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and pregnancy-induced nausea. Pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) is the coenzyme form of vitamin B6 that is biologically active. Unlike pyridoxine HCl, P-5-P is immediately ready to be used within the nervous system after absorption from the digestive tract.
Glycine acts as another important cellular signal within the brain. Glycine’s role in the nervous system is evident through multiple clinical trials examining the benefits in sleep and obsessive-compulsiveness among other mental conditions. For example, glycine ingestion one hour before sleep has been found to improve sleep latency and quality, reduce morning fatigue and improve next-day cognitive performance.
Cyto·Calm provides a therapeutic combination of 5-HTP, biologically activate vitamin B6 and glycine. Collectively, these nutrients act to support and balance the brain’s neurotransmitters and work synergistically to improve mood and sleep.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (seed, Griffonia simplicifolia) | 100mg |
| Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal-5-phosphate) | 10mg |
Unit of Measure above: Each capsule
Non-Medicinal Ingredients: Glycine, vegetable-grade magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose. Capsule: hypromellose.
Directions and Cautions:
Indications: Helps promote healthy mood balance. Used as a sleep aid.
Directions for Use: Adults – (Healthy Mood Balance) Take 1 capsule, 1-3 times per day with food, or as directed by a healthcare professional. (Sleep Aid) Take 1-2 capsules with food, 30-45 minutes before bedtime, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Duration of use: Healthy Mood Balance: Use for a minimum of 1 week to see beneficial effects. Consult a healthcare professional for use beyond 1 year
Cautions: Do not use if safety seal is broken. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen; and prior to use if you are pregnant or nursing, or taking carbidopa or drugs/supplements with serotonergic activity. These may include S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), St.John’s Wort, antidepressants, pain killers, over the counter cough/cold medication containing dextromethorphan, anti-nausea and anti-migraine medication. Discontinue use and consult healthcare professional if you show signs of weakness, oral ulcer, or abdominal pain accompanied by severe muscle pain or if you experience skin changes. Sleep Aid: Consult healthcare professional if sleeplessness persists for more than 3 weeks.
Contraindications: Do not use if you have scleroderma.
Known Adverse Reactions: Some people may experience drowsiness. Exercise caution if operating heavy machinery, driving a motor vehicle or involved in activities requiring mental alertness. Some people may experience nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Gluten, soy and dairy free.
