5-HTP

Tryptophan is an amino acid that converts to 5 HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) which then can convert to serotonin, an important brain chemical involved in mood, behavior, appetite, and sleep. Low serotonin levels may lead to addictive behavior such as gambling or other habits caused by weak will power. Serotonin is known as 5-HT, or 5-hydroxytryptamine, and is found in many places in the body particularly the brain, gastrointestinal system, and blood cells. Once serotonin is made, the pineal gland is able to convert it at night into melatonin, the sleep-inducing hormone. Tryptophan, 5 HTP, and melatonin are available for sale as dietary supplements, but not serotonin.

Some people are deficient in serotonin and hence a supplement, such as 5 HTP, that increases levels may be helpful to them for depression or other conditions. Other people may have depression, anxiety, and other symptoms that may appear to be due to serotonin deficiency, but may actually be from other causes  -- whether an imbalance in brain chemicals, hormones, a high amount of inflammatory substances in the brain and body, abnormal neural connections, etc. There's really no easy way -- for instance blood studies in a doctor's office -- to tell whether someone is deficient in serotonin, and if they are, whether a 5HTP supplement would help treat their depression or other health problems. Other nutrients and herbs that have an influence on stress or anxiety include passion flower, tryptophan, kava, ashwagandha, theanine, GABA and valerian herb. Mind Power Rx is a formula that helps support mood and provides mental clarity, along with better focus and concentration. Diet Rx is an appetite suppressant with green tea extract, hoodia extract, ginger, and several other herbs.