5HTP Effectiveness on Anxiety and Depression

5HTP is a naturally occurring chemical byproduct of a protein building block called L-trypotophan. This substance is also commercial produced using the seeds of an African plant called Griffonia Simplicifolia, whose seeds have 20% naturally occurring 5HTP. The difference in the commercial produced and the kind naturally occurring in our bodies, is that the ones coming from these seeds is smaller.

This smaller size is the main factor behind why it works so well in the human population. Since the 5HTP molecules in the seeds are smaller, they are able to pass what is known as the blood-brain barrier. This allows it to then increase the production of serotonin and melatonin in the brain and nervous system.

Melatonin aids in the regulation of our circadian rhythm, which tells us when to sleep or wake. Serotonin is responsible for natural functions like sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behaviour, and pain sensations.

Since 5HTP aids in the production of these two vital chemicals, it has been used for numerous health issues or disease which are thought to be primarily or significantly impacted by the decrease of them. This includes: insomnia, headaches, seizures, depression, fibromyalgia, Parkinson's, anxiety, obesity, weight loss, migraines, tension headaches, PMS, PMDD, ADHD, alcohol withdrawal, and Alzheimer's.

Today we are going to focus on what research has shown 5HTP in terms of anxiety and depression, which are two very common disorders. These are so common, in fact, that an estimated 28 million globally suffer from a form of anxiety disorder, while an astonishing 350 million around the world suffer from depression.

For Anxiety

The use of 5HTP in individuals with anxiety or associated disorders has shown great results. Several studies have shown that taking 25 to 150 milligrams a day is effective in reducing overall symptoms. Specifically, this dosage has shown to significant protect against panic attacks induced by carbon dioxide.

BUT the key here, apparently,  is moderation. Despite being shown useful in smaller doses, amounts orally ingested daily exceeding 225 milligrams have shown to make anxiety disorders significantly worse.

For Depression

The scientific studies done on 5HTP's effects on depression are much more promising. Several studies have shown that taking 100 to 200 milligrams orally a day for two to four weeks greatly improves symptoms of depression. In fact, it has been shown to be just as beneficial as conventional depression treatments in some individuals. A lot of people were able to get rid of antidepressants after only four weeks of use. It was also noted, that 5HTP helped individuals to boost mood, remain calm in stressful situations, focus better and be more in control of their emotions.

Side Effects & Precautions

5HTP come with some, and sometimes severe, side effects if used in higher doses - from 300 mg and above. It also interacts with several drugs, and should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals who are allergic to any of the ingredients contained in the supplements and people who have previously had an adverse reaction to this supplement or others like it.

In order to prevent the side effects from overdosing, chose the safe dose: 100 mg per capsule. VitaPremium offers high quality 5HTP from natural source, available here.