Doctor’s Best 5-HTP 5-HTP stands for 5-hydroxy tryptophan and is a derivative of the amino acid tryptophan from which the body produces the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain and gut. Conversion in the brain takes place in the presence of vitamin B6 and vitamin C (from which it also follows that they contribute to normal psychological functioning). That’s why Dr. Best also has a formula 5-HTP with B6 and vitamin C, which work synergistically. The 5-HTP in this product is obtained from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia, which is completely free of synthetic ingredients and has a high degree of purity. 5 HTP Vs. Tryptophan 5 HTP and tryptophan are very similar but also very different. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is relatively abundant in food (e.g., in turkey), but tryptophan has many more functions than 5-HTP. Because of this, it often happens that the body makes something other than serotonin from tryptophan. For instance if you are deficient in niacin (vitamin B3), tryptophan can be completely converted to B3. 5 HTP, on the other hand, has no other functions and its primary function is conversion to serotonin. Dr’s Best 5-HTP is neurologically active and you will feel its effect on a psychological level, without stimulating effects (such as coffee). Serotonin Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that healthcare associates with depression and anxiety. That is why most anti-depressants are designed to synthesize serotonin in the brain (SSRI – selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). Although serotonin has strong effects on the brain, most of it is actually in the gut where it speeds up digestion. This is why antidepressants often also affect digestion. Serotonin deficiency can lead to slower digestion and constipation. Serotonin also has a function in sleep as it activates brain pathways that calm the brain and prepare it for the sleep phase. Serotonin is further converted to melatonin, also known as sleep hormone, as it is secreted only at night, in the dark, mostly during sleep.
