A natural and safe alternative to tryptophan

L-Hydroxytryptophan(5-HTP)is used by the body to synthesize serotonin, a neurohormone needed for melatonin production, appetite regulation, and mood regulation. 5-HTP is a natural product extracted from the seeds of the Griffonia plant, unlike tryptophan, which is produced synthetically or through baterial fermentation. 50 mg. of 5-HTP is roughly equivalent to 500 mg. of tryptophan. Certified free of "Peak X"

Ultra 5-HTP Formula capsules, provided by Douglas Laboratories, contain a synergistic combination of 5-HTP, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients designed to support mood and a sense of well-being.

FUNCTIONS
Serotonin, an important brain neurotransmitter, is key in the regulation of appetite, mood, and melatonin production. The presence of serotonin in the brain is associated with a balanced emotional state. This is achieved in part by decreasing the activity of certain excitatory hormones, including dopamine and noradrenaline. Serotonin also acts as a satiety signal in the brain, thereby naturally regulating food intake. Additionally, as a precursor of melatonin, serotonin is involved in regulating sleep patterns.

As a metabolic intermediate in the conversion of tryptophan into serotonin, 5-HTP can also serve as a precursor of serotonin. 5-HTP offers a number of advantages over tryptophan. 5-HTP is derived naturally from the seeds of the Griffonia plant, unlike tryptophan which is produced synthetically or through bacterial fermentation. 5-HTP crosses into the brain more readily than tryptophan as it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier without competition for uptake. 5-HTP is significantly more effective than tryptophan; one 50 mg capsule of 5-HTP is roughly equivalent to 500 mg of tryptophan. Finally, research studies have shown 5-HTP to be safe at levels as high as 900 mg. As a result, 5-HTP is a safe and effective means of increasing brain serotonin levels.

As co-enzymes, the B vitamins are essential components in most major metabolic reactions. They play an important role in energy production, including the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins. B vitamins are also important for blood cells, hormones, and nervous system function. As water-soluble substances, B vitamins are not generally stored in the body in any appreciable amounts (with the exception of vitamin B-12). Therefore, the body needs an adequate supply of B vitamins on a daily basis.

Herbs such as St. John’s wort and Ginkgo biloba are widely recognized for their positive, supportive effects on mental and emotional function. Minerals such as magnesium, chromium and zinc play a wide variety of essential roles in the body and support optimum functioning of all the body’s processes.

Other nutrients such as L-Tyrosine, L-Glutamine and octacosanol are also included for their positive effects on mental and neurological well-being.

INDICATIONS
Ultra 5-HTP Formula may be a useful nutritional supplement for individuals wishing support healthy mental function and increase their levels of brain serotonin.