5-HTP NOW Foods Review
5-HTP works in the brain by increasing the chemical serotonin. It is used to treat a long list of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, headaches, premenstrual syndrome, and attention deficit disorder. In conjunction with prescription medications it can be used to relieve the symptoms of seizures and Parkinson’s disease.
5-HTP supports a positive mood, comes from a natural source, and is suitable for vegetarians.
Ingredients
5-HTP contains 100 mg of 5-hydroxytryptophan which is a by-product of the protein L-tryptophan. It is commercially produced from the seeds of the African plant called Griffonia simplicifolia, which is a climbing shrub native to Western and Central Africa.
5-HTP also has two additional ingredients, rice flour and cellulose for the capsule.
Dosage
The recommended dose is one capsule taken daily on an empty stomach.
AnxiClear suggests taking two capsules of their product in the day time and 1 capsule of their night time formula in the evening.
Side Effects
5-HTP is relatively safe but there have been reports of some users who have developed eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome or EMS. This is a serious condition that involves extreme muscle tenderness and abnormalities in the blood. This has been association to an accidental contaminant ingredient but there is very little scientific evidence to confirm EMS is caused by this product.
This product is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. 15% of people with Down syndrome who receive 5-HTP in the long term have suffered from seizures. 5-HTP should also not be taken prior to surgery due to the medications administered during surgery. These may cause serotonin levels to increase which can lead to serious side effects including heart problems, shivers, and anxiety.
Research has shown that by taking 5-HTP daily; it can improve the symptoms of depression and fibromyalgia.
Price
This product is available online (https://www.now-2-u.com) for $19.99 for a 60 capsule supply. This would be suitable for a two month supply and would cost about $10 per month. The website does have a place for discount codes during check out. You may find better deals by shopping around. The price for this product is slightly higher than other brands.
Guarantee
Guarantee and return policy will vary depending on where you have purchased this product. It is available over the counter in some supplement stores and a multitude of online stores. It would be best to review the individual website or stores guarantee and return policy before purchasing.
Conclusion – NOW Foods 5-HTP Review
5-HTP is cost effective but the possible side effects do create some concern over the possibility of developing a serious condition or having seizures. The product is not proven to be effective for all of the disorders it claims it may be effective in. The source or quality of the HTP can vary due to the over commercialization of the product.