5-HTP Recent studies show that those taking 5 htp for anxiety may experience far fewer panic attacks, among other benefits. 5 Hydroxytryptophan, or 5 htp, is a naturally occurring amino acid used by the brain to make the neurotransmitter serotonin. Mood, sleeping patterns, and the perception of pain and happiness are all regulated in large part by serotonin. 5 htp is itself the chemical precursor to serotonin, which means that without it, serotonin production does not occur. Taking 5 htp for anxiety amounts to giving the brain more of the material it needs to make serotonin.
A study conducted in the Netherlands made a strong case for the use of 5 htp for anxiety. The subjects in the study suffered from two types of anxiety, panic attacks and generalized anxiety. Panic attacks often include feelings of intense fear, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, tingling sensations, sweating and nausea. Generalized anxiety is frequently characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worrying, muscle aches, restlessness, insomnia, and irritability, among other symptoms.
The subjects took 300 mg of 5 htp for anxiety daily over the course of 12 weeks. During that time their anxiety levels were repeatedly tested and recorded. By the end of the study, the vast majority of the subjects showed significant improvement in anxiety symptoms, and those who had been previously experiencing panic attacks reported their occurrence to have decreased dramatically while taking 5 htp.
Taking 5 htp for anxiety has the effect of providing the brain with more of the material it needs to manufacture serotonin. 5 htp is effective among anxiety treatments because it increases serotonin levels, with minimal side effects. 5 htp works without disrupting normal metabolic processes and without the serious side effects of selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, or SSRIs.
5-HTP Doses Most people using 5 htp for anxiety take between 50 and 300 mg daily. Some people obtain more favorable results while taking a lower dose, so it's advisable to start with 50 mg and add more over time if necessary. For maximum absorption, 5 htp should be taken with or shortly before a meal, with a full glass of water. Avoid taking more than 200 mg of 5htp at a time.
5 htp may not be medically appropriate for everyone, and should not be taken by those using anti-Parkinson's or prescription antidepressant medications. Consulting a health care professional before beginning a 5HTP regimen is advised.
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