We all want to look and feel our best, which is why each day we strive to eat right, exercise, and keep a positive attitude!
Keeping a healthy lifestyle will reduce your stress levels and help you find more happiness in your everyday routine. But what if there was a way to continuously promote that good mood we all enjoy so much, on a regular basis? Well, you might be able to do just that by adding a 5-HTP supplement to your day.
If you find yourself wondering about 5-HTP and which brand of supplement you should take, you’ve certainly come to the right place! In this post we’re going to outline:
- What 5-HTP is
- Benefits of taking 5-HTP
- Our recommendations for 5-HTP supplements
What Is 5-HTP?
The chemical with the funny name
5-HTP stands for 5 hydroxytryptophan, and is a chemical that is derived from the amino acid tryptophan, which humans get from food. It plays a crucial role in the body's synthesis of serotonin, a neurotransmitter often referred to as the "feel-good" chemical. This transformation begins with tryptophan, an essential amino acid obtained from dietary sources, such as turkey, chicken, fish, dairy products, nuts, and seeds. You might have heard of tryptophan before, it’s the one that might make you feel a little sleepy after eating too much Thanksgiving turkey--as turkey is a great source of protein.
After tryptophan is ingested, it undergoes conversion to 5-HTP and subsequently to serotonin. While the body has the ability to produce serotonin, it often requires the additional boost that supplements can provide, especially in today's fast-paced world, where stress and dietary deficiencies can hinder serotonin production.
5-HTP is primarily extracted from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia, making it a popular natural supplement. It is particularly beneficial for those who may struggle with mood regulation, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. Unlike some other supplements, 5-HTP can cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to effectively influence serotonin levels directly within the brain. As a result, many individuals turn to 5-HTP not only for its potential mood-enhancing properties but also for its role in improving sleep quality and alleviating chronic pain conditions. The ability of 5-HTP to increase serotonin production has made it a subject of interest for research into its potential therapeutic effects.
Key takeaways:
- 5-HTP is created from the amino acid tryptophan and eventually is converted into the neurotransmitter serotonin.
- The body cannot create tryptophan, so we must get it from food and supplements.
- 5-HTP supplements can affect serotonin levels and offer some beneficial results.
Why Should You Include 5-HTP in Your Lifestyle?
Some of the key benefits of adding 5-HTP into your routine.
Serotonin is known as the happy chemical— for good reason, since its levels can have a direct effect on our mood —5-HTP supplements have been rising in popularity. But what are some of the benefits of adding this supplement to your routine?
First of all, incorporating 5-HTP into your daily routine can offer a multitude of benefits, particularly in enhancing mental and emotional well-being. One of the most significant advantages is its potential to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Many studies suggest a correlation between low serotonin levels and mood disorders. By supplementing with 5-HTP, individuals may experience improved mood and reduced feelings of anxiety. This is especially important for those who are looking for natural alternatives to traditional antidepressants, as 5-HTP works by naturally boosting serotonin production.
5-HTP has shown promise in aiding sleep. Sleep disturbances can greatly impact daily life, contributing to irritability and decreased productivity. By increasing serotonin levels, which subsequently converts to melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, 5-HTP can facilitate better sleep quality and duration. Many people report falling asleep more easily and experiencing deeper, more restorative sleep when taking this supplement.
Another compelling reason to consider 5-HTP is its potential to alleviate pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic migraines. Research indicates that low serotonin levels may contribute to increased pain perception. By boosting serotonin, 5-HTP could help alleviate these pain symptoms, offering a dual benefit of mood enhancement and pain relief.
Additionally, 5-HTP may assist in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness. This can be particularly useful for individuals striving to maintain a healthy weight or overcome emotional eating habits. The effects of increased serotonin levels on appetite regulation can help reduce cravings and promote healthier eating patterns.
In summary, including 5-HTP in your lifestyle could yield multiple benefits: improved mood, better sleep, pain relief, and assistance with weight management. This natural supplement provides an accessible and effective way to support overall well-being.
Best 5-HTP Supplements You Can Take
Our recommendations for 5-HTP supplements to help you feel your best
Dr. Emil Nutrition 5-HTP Plus
Make sure to know and understand when it may be the best time to take 5HTP supplements to help you lose weight!
For a powerful dose of 5-HTP, turn to Dr. Emil Nutrition’s 5-HTP Plus. It’s packed with 200mg of 5-HTP that includes serotonin synthesizers SAMe and L-Tryptophan. This formula also includes higher levels of vitamin B6, which is essential to convert 5-HTP to serotonin. The supplements will also help you develop a healthier brain and heart.
These all-natural capsules are designed to help boost your mood, provide help for anxiety, and even assist in helping you get some restful sleep. 5-HTP Plus is free of both hormones and gluten, and there are no harmful additives.
You don’t take our word for it, though! This supplement is getting rave reviews on Amazon, with over 17,000 five star ratings.
“Since starting this supplement, my overall mood has benefited tremendously. It only took several days to start to notice meaningful results. I'm happier, less stressed and my sleep quality has improved a ton.I really love that this product not only improves mood but really does act as a very powerful sleeping aid, without the groggy, hungover feeling you get from taking Melatonin or OTC sleep products.” -Amazon Review
There are plenty of other reviews available as well, both on Amazon and right here on our website, if you want to see what more people are saying about 5-HTP supplements.
Nested Naturals 5-HTP
Help maintain healthy levels of serotonin with this supplement. Image courtesy of Nested Naturals.
If you’re looking to maintain healthy serotonin levels, then why not give Nested Naturals 5-HTP a try? These capsules are vegan, gluten-free, and third party tested, and deliver 100mg of 5-HTP to help boost your mood and keep a healthy and consistent serotonin level. In addition to promoting a balanced mood, these once a day supplements will also help support relaxation, and offer a little bit of calm in a hectic and stressful world. The 5-HTP in each capsule can also assist with additional melatonin production, and help you achieve a better level of sleep.
“I have been trying to get away from taking medication as much for my insomnia and anxiety. This has been a great addition to my more natural approach.” - Nested Naturals Review
Vimerson Health 5-HTP Mood Support Supplement
A supplement that includes both 5-HTP and Calcium for your benefit. Image courtesy of Amazon
With these 5-HTP supplements from Vimerson Health, you can get your daily dose of both serotonin and calcium! Why not kill two birds with one stone? Take two capsules, and you’ll get 200mg of 5-HTP and 328mg of calcium.
One of the standout features of Vimerson Health's formulation is its dual-action approach. Not only does it provide a significant dose of 5-HTP to support serotonin production, but it also includes calcium, which plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including nerve transmission and muscle function. This combination makes Vimerson Health's supplement unique, as it addresses both mood support and overall bodily health in one convenient product.
Vimerson Health prioritizes quality and safety, ensuring that their 5-HTP supplement is non-GMO, gluten-free, and dairy-free. This commitment to purity means that individuals with dietary restrictions or sensitivities can use it without worry. The supplement is manufactured in a facility that adheres to strict quality control standards, providing additional peace of mind regarding its efficacy and safety.
User feedback on Vimerson Health 5-HTP is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its effectiveness in mood regulation and overall mental clarity. Individuals report feeling calmer, more balanced, and less affected by daily stressors.
“I have been taking 5-HTP for several months and can tell a big difference in my mood regulation and depression. This Vimerson Health 5-HTP was very fresh when delivered. There is no bad aroma or aftertaste.” - Amazon Review
Now 5-HTP
It couldn’t be easier to add 5-HTP to your day than with these capsules. Image courtesy of Amazon.
If you’re looking for a bang for your buck with your 5-HTP supplement, you can’t go wrong with Now 5-HTP. Each capsule contains 100mg of 5-HTP, which is a carefully formulated dose designed to effectively support serotonin production in the body. This balance is crucial, as it allows for optimal neurotransmitter synthesis without overwhelming the system, making it suitable for daily use.
One of the key features of Now 5-HTP is its vegan formulation, ensuring that it fits well within various dietary preferences. This product is also free from common allergens, as it does not contain gluten, dairy, or artificial additives, making it a safe choice for many individuals with dietary restrictions. The commitment to quality is further emphasized by third-party testing, which ensures that the product meets rigorous standards for purity and potency.
The convenience factor of Now 5-HTP cannot be overlooked. Each bottle contains 120 capsules, providing ample supply for long-term use. At approximately $15 per bottle, it offers an economical solution for those looking to enhance their mood and sleep quality without breaking the bank. Many users report noticeable improvements in their emotional well-being and sleep patterns within just a few days of consistent use.
Additionally, Now 5-HTP is designed to promote not only mood enhancement but also better sleep quality. By boosting serotonin, it helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, allowing for deeper and more restful sleep. This dual benefit makes it an attractive option for individuals struggling with mood-related issues or sleep disturbances.
“My mood is a 10 all day. I also fall asleep much faster and sleep more soundly… I've literally never felt better. Improved focus and clarity at work and increased energy.” - Amazon Review
Double Wood Supplements 5-HTP Liquid Drops
If you’re not too fond of pills, never fear! These liquid drops are here. Image courtesy of Amazon.
Double Wood Supplements took a step outside of the box approach with their 5-HTP mood and sleep supplements. These drops were the first of their kind, and are over 99% 5-HTP, so the recommended dose is considerably lower— 50 mg.
One bottle contains two months worth of servings. This liquid supplement is made and manufactured in the U.S.A, non-GMO, and gluten free.
“I like that the liquid allows me to choose a dose that's right for me. During times of high stress, I can increase my dose if I want, and during calmer days, I can take a small maintenance dose.” - Amazon Review
Metabolic Maintenance 5-HTP Dietary Supplement
Consider this 5-HTP supplement, stored inside a sustainable glass bottle. Image courtesy of Amazon.
Naturally derived from Griffonia seeds and gluten free, Metabolic Maintenance’s 5-HTP supplements are definitely worth mentioning. These pills are sold in both 100mg and 50mg doses, so you can pick which one would be best for you.
Only pure, active ingredients are present in these supplements, so you won’t have to worry about artificial or added flavors. You also won’t have to worry about an allergic reaction— these supplements are gluten-free, dairy-free, peanut free, and tree nut free. They’ve also been third-party tested.
“This supplement was recommended by my doctor. I could not believe the difference it made in my mood. I take two a day, one in the morning and one at night and I make sure I never miss because it changes my mood immediately.” - Amazon Review
As you can see, there are a plethora of 5-HTP supplements available on the market right now. Lots of people have noticed the positive impact these serotonin-boosters have had on their lives, so why not give one a try?
Consider adding one of the above options to your daily routine, and you may start to notice the benefits that come with maintaining a healthy level of serotonin.
Whether you need help finding good sleep, need to add more calm to your life, or simply enjoy those good mood feelings, a 5-HTP supplement could be the solution!
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