5-HTP 100 is a precursor to the "feel good" neurotransmitter, serotonin, and the "sleep" hormone, melatonin. By boosting concentrations of these brain chemicals, 5-HTP promotes a restful sleep, a healthy mood and reduced pain sensation. It has also been found helpful for relieving symptoms of fibromyalgia and reducing the severity and duration of migraine headaches. The formula is enhanced with the critical cofactors, magnesium and vitamin B6, which help the body to utilize 5-HTP.
5-Hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP) is the intermediate metabolite that the body makes from the amino acid, L-tryptophan, and then converts to the neurotransmitter, serotonin. Serotonin is a critical neurotransmitter that regulates mood, behaviour, cerebral blood flow and pain sensation. It is also a precursor to melatonin, which is essential to healthy sleep. By increasing serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain, 5-HTP has positive effects in all of these areas.
Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin. A deficiency in magnesium can inhibit the activity of the enzyme, tryptophan hydroxylase, which is the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of serotonin. ,intracellular magnesium deficiency is also common in individuals who suffer from recurrent migraine headaches. Oral supplementation has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Because magnesium is also important for the muscles, supplementation has been shown to help relieve the pain and tenderness associated with fibromyalgia.
Vitamin B6 is a key catalyst involved in the synthesis of serotonin by the enzyme, 5-HTP decarboxylase. It also influences cognitive performance via its role in methylation within the central nervous system. A deficiency can contribute to depression and cognitive difficulties.
