In dealing with proteins, we have seen that they are made up of units called amino acids. One of these amino acids is tryptophan. Now, 5-hydroxy-tryptophan, whose abbreviated spelling is 5-HTP, is a metabolite of the amino acid tryptophan. The production of 5-HTP supplements, however, takes place not from tryptophan, but from the seeds of a plant growing in West Africa called Griffonia Simplicifolia.

Function

Just as tryptophan is the precursor of 5-HTP, so the latter is the precursor of serotonin, so taking 5-HTP supplements indirectly increases endogenous production of the former. In conclusion, given the anorectic function of serotonin, the effect of 5-HTP is attributable to a decrease in appetite in the context of low-calorie diets.

Negative notes

There are no reported side effects from taking 5-HTP supplements.

Form and dosage

In terms of form, 5-HTP supplements are mostly available on the market in tablet form. Regarding dosage, dosages of between 700 and 900mg/day have been used in many of the studies that have proven the effectiveness of these products in controlling body composition. However, the recommended dosage for good results is much less: 50-300mg, taken in one, two or three daily doses, before meals.