You are desperate to lose weight, but dieting is simply not your cup of tea. Not because you don't want to do it, but because you cannot control the urge to eat. Is there a way to trim the pounds without having to endure the unpleasant side effects of dieting?
One way to help is the use of appetite suppressants such as 5-HTP.
The Facts on 5-HTP
5-HTP is the abbreviated form for 5-hydroxytryptophan. It is a naturally occurring substance in the body produced from tryptophan. This substance is then converted into serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain. It is nicknamed the "Happy Hormone" as it carries signals of happiness between the nerve cells in the brain. Thus, it acts a mood stabilizer. Serotonin was also shown to improve sleep in users.
The pills available in the market are herbal supplements. They are made using a similar chemical compound derived from plants. 5-hydroxytryptophan is sourced from the seeds of the Griffonia Simplicifolia, a shrub native to West Africa. The pills are mostly available in the capsule form. These herbal supplements have not been approved by the FDA.
The Science Behind 5-HTP
5-hydroxytryptophan is a natural appetite suppressant. It reduces hunger pangs and controls your calorie consumption. It trims down cravings particularly for carbohydrates.
This amino acid derived from tryptophan also aids in weight loss by regulating the amount of serotonin produced by the body. Low levels of serotonin create feelings of depression and stress. Many overeat to seek solace when stressed or depressed leading to unwanted weight gain. 5-HTP boosts serotonin levels. The elevated levels of the happy hormone calm the mind and create a "feel good" feeling. By improving your mood, it gives rise to a feeling of satiety and prevents overeating induced by stress.
Thus, appetite suppression combined with a general sense of wellbeing makes 5-hydroxytryptophan an effective weight loss tool.
Selected studies have also proved its effectiveness in treating insomnia, depression and headaches. But there is not much evidence in this regard.
Dosages
You can start 5-HTP at 50 mg per day. You can level up gradually. The supplements can be taken with food or before your meal.
Precautions and Side Effects
This supplement does not replace a healthy diet or exercise program. For those suffering a medical condition, it is advised that you take the supplement only after consulting your doctor. It should also not be taken by those using other medications as there are chances of drug interactions.
The supplement is safe when taken in the right dosage. However, prolonged use in higher doses can cause side effects. These include gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting, nausea and stomach pain. Pregnant or lactating women should not take 5-HTP.
Also, make sure you choose a 5-HTP supplement without any additives or binders.
Overall, the 5-HTP supplement is safe given that you use it as instructed. Make a healthy choice and lose weight comfortably and safely.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mohd_Hairul_Hisham
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