5-HTP – can it really help with sleep?

Sleep disruptions and low mood are among the most common complaints that many people experience today and may look towards natural alternatives to help.

In a world that we are continuously tuned in and tapped into, it is not surprising that we may struggle to balance our moods and achieve a deep, satisfying sleep with good levels of energy throughout our day. Our nervous system is continuously trying to orchestrate the symphony of signals internally and externally that can keep our body in a constant state of high alertness.

The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells that control all our body processes and is responsible for processing information, and transmitting signals to allow communication to pass from the brain to the rest of the body, for example as you read these words your eyes would have blinked several times and you will have swallowed as many times without you thinking about it, this is thanks to the nervous system and its chemical messengers of which there are many.

Serotonin and 5-HTP

One such chemical messenger is called serotonin, which is known as one of the feel-good, calming chemicals that help to regulate our mood, digestion, sleep, cognitive function and more. 

To make serotonin we need the amino acid tryptophan which we find in various amounts in foods such turkey, eggs, nuts, seeds, legumes and wholegrain.  How we digest, absorb, and utilise tryptophan from food can vary from each person. If we are not eating enough of these foods, we may then experience lower levels of serotonin.  Other causes of low levels can include genetic factors, age, chronic stress, lack of exposure to natural light and chronic pain.

Whilst we cannot take serotonin as a supplement,  we can take its precursor called 5-hydroxytryptophan or 5-HTP as it is generally referred to which was first recognised in the first half of the 20th century.

How can 5-HTP supplements help?

Taking 5-HTP as a supplement may help to increase our serotonin levels which can further produce melatonin which is a hormone that is responsible for promoting sleep as well as regulating our circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). For this conversion to take place we also need Vitamin B6 such as in the form of P5P which is the active (more available form). 

When looking to supplement with 5-HTP it is recommended we choose a naturally produced source from the seeds of the plant known as griffonia simplicifolia.

Not only sleep, other possible positive effects of 5-HTP on humans include – 

• Binge eating
• Anxiety
• Prophylaxis of migraine attacks and reducing the severity
• May help reduce appetite, so helping with food intake and weight loss
• Potential as a supplement for inflammatory diseases
• Seizure disorders
• To help reduce the depressive symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and more

Individuals with fibromyalgia have been found to have low serotonin levels and taking a supplement of 5-HTP may give relief from the common symptoms of morning stiffness, brain fog, pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleeplessness. In a 90-day open study, nearly 50% of the patients had a ‘good to fair’ clinical improvement.

Finding your calm with 5-HTP

Navigating our way through the hustle and bustle of our modern lives takes effort on our part, establishing daily routines especially when it comes to sleep, hydration, movement and prioritising our own self-care such as finding moments for relaxation and peace when we can. All of which can help to boost our natural levels of the important feel-good chemical serotonin. 

There are times when we are in a cycle of poor sleep, or feeling stressed, anxious and overwhelmed so supplementing our diet for a time with 5-HTP may help us find our calm.

Whilst most individuals can safely take 5-HTP, it is advised to check with a healthcare practitioner if you are taking any medications such as anti-depressants which are contra-indicated.

Choosing to source your 5-HTP supplements from Nutrigold.co.uk has numerous advantages. These supplements are understood to promote mental well-being by influencing the levels of serotonin, a crucial neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. The 5-HTP offered by Nutrigold is derived from high-quality, natural sources, ensuring superior bioavailability.

In addition, Nutrigold.co.uk is committed to providing comprehensive product information, affirming the product’s effectiveness, safety, and quality to consumers. With a stringent adherence to quality standards, Nutrigold proves an excellent option for those contemplating the inclusion of 5-HTP in their dietary supplement regime. Nutrigold’s dedication to customer education and service reaffirms their standout position within the market.