5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid that your body naturally produces. Your body uses it to produce serotonin, a chemical messenger that sends signals between nerve cells. Some studies have found that 5-HTP supplements help relieve depression and have worked as well as some anti depressants. 5-HTP may also increase feelings of fullness, causing you to eat less which can result in a loss of weight. 5-HTP may counteract hunger induced hormones like Ghrelin which case you to get hungry. In one study 20 people with diabetes were randomly assigned to receive either 5-HTP or a placebo for 2 weeks. The result of this study showed that those that received the 5-HTP consumed approximately 421 fewer calories per day compared to the placebo group.
Here are some potential benefits of 5-HTP supplements:
- May help relieve depression
- Could aid weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness
- May be beneficial for several conditions, including depression, insomnia, migraines, and more
- May help reduce overeating and weight gain
- May help with sleep-related issues
- May help with anxiety
- May help with chronic pain