(EMAILWIRE.COM, April 27, 2012 ) Wilmington, NC -- Various studies show that 5-HTP is effective in remedying primary fibromyalgia syndrome, Friedreich's ataxia, anxiety, binge eating and insomnia. “More and more studies are coming out that show 5-HTP may be a valuable weight loss tool as well,” according to Natural Health Sherpa.
In a small study on 19 obese women conducted in Italy, those who took 8 mg/kg/day of 5-htp showed statistically significant weight loss compared to the control group who were given placebo. “They also consumed significantly fewer calories and carbohydrates than those in the placebo group,” Natural Health Sherpa reports.
A different study conducted in the University of Pavia in Pavia, Italy observed the effects of sublingual 5-HTP spray on 27 healthy, but overweight, adult women. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the participants were divided into two groups. The first group used a 5-HTP oral spray five times a day for eight weeks.
The researchers learned that those who used the 5-htp oral spray felt more full compared to the control group. Aside from that, the 5-HTP group lost more inches in the hips and had a lower body mass index (BMI) compared to the control group. “Researchers concluded that 5-HTP can help with appetite control for overweight women following a weight loss program,” according to the Natural Health Sherpa post.
How 5-HTP Works
5-HTP increases serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin acts as chemical restraint mechanism, so to speak, for the body. Inadequate serotonin can result in irritability, anxiety and the brain’s perception of hunger.
Taking 5-HTP supplements can help ease cravings and control appetite. Still, a spokesperson for Natural Health Sherpa warns that: “It is not a magic wand full of willpower and calorie erasers. You will still need to maintain a reasonable caloric intake full of nutrient-dense whole foods and engage in moderate daily exercise.”
Consumers are also advised to consult their doctors before trying 5-HTP. There are 5-HTP side effects to watch out for such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, decreased sex drive, fatigue, and even nightmares if too much is taken.
About Natural Health Sherpa:
Natural Health Sherpa provides in-depth, science-based, independent reviews of natural health therapies and remedies that have been proven to be both safe and effective and are backed by good science -- multiple double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized studies. Unfortunately, there are many charlatans making bogus, unfounded claims in the natural health area, so our goal is to separate fact from fiction to pinpoint what actually works.
