5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) - Glossary

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)

Posted By on Feb 22, 2009 | 0 comments

A metabolite of the essential amino acid l-tryptophan and intermediate in the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) as well as the hormone melatonin. 5-HTP is used as an alternative treatment for depression, and included in a number of supplements to improve mood and assist with appetite control/weight loss.

See Andrew Novick’s and David Tolson’s article, “5-HTP” for more information.

Author: elissa

Elissa is a former research associate with the University of California at Davis, and the author/co-author of over a dozen articles published in scientific journals. Currently a freelance writer and researcher, Elissa brings her multidisciplinary education and training to her writing on nutrition and supplements.

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