If you're looking for a natural sleep aid, 5-HTP may be the answer. This compound is derived from the amino acid tryptophan and is a precursor to serotonin. Serotonin plays an important role in mood and sleep. In fact, 5-htp has been shown to be as effective as some prescription medications for insomnia. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of 5-HTP for sleep and mood, as well as how to take it safely.

5-HTP is a compound that is derived from the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that the body needs to produce proteins. It can also be found in foods like turkey and milk. 5-HTP is a precursor to serotonin, which means that it helps the body to produce this important neurotransmitter. Serotonin plays a role in mood, sleep, and appetite. In fact, low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression.

5-htp has been shown to be as effective as some prescription medications for insomnia. One study found that 5-HTP was more effective than amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, for treating insomnia. 5-HTP was also found to be more effective than placebo in reducing the time it took to fall asleep and increasing the total amount of sleep. Complete Recovery, a supplement specifically designed to support muscle recovery, joint health, and sleep quality, contains 5-HTP. In addition to 5-HTP, Complete Recovery also includes other ingredients like ashwagandha root extract and tart cherry extract to support the body's natural sleep and recovery processes.

5-HTP is also thought to be helpful for mood. One study found that 5-HTP improved symptoms of depression, including fatigue, irritability, and worry. 5-HTP has also been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep in people with anxiety disorders.

If you're looking for a natural way to improve sleep and mood, 5-HTP may be the answer. This compound has been shown to be as effective as some prescription medications for insomnia and is thought to be helpful for mood disorders like depression. 5-HTP is generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses, but it can cause side effects like nausea and headaches. If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking 5-HTP and call your doctor immediately.

Sources:

1. http://www.everydayhealth.com/sleep-pictures/natural-sleep-aids-5-htp.aspx

2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3011075/

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21135902