147. 5-Hydroxytryptophan Side Effects & Benefits
In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, we're diving into the science and soul of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a supplement known for supporting mood through its role in serotonin production. We'll cover the basics of 5-HTP and its role in depression and anxiety along with the complex nature of depression and how 5-HTP might play a role in supporting mood (yeah, we'll even touch on the controversial serotonin hypothesis- we see you psychology and biology nerds!) Of course, since many of us want to know if supplementing with 5-HTP is helpful, we'll talk about the importance of quality in supplements, potential risks of serotonin syndrome, common 5-HTP dosages, and the nuanced approach needed when considering 5-HTP as part of mental health support.
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Key moments:
00:00 Welcome to Joy Lab
00:38 What is 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP): Exploring the Science and Benefits
02:25 Tryptophan- Foods High In This Amino Acid
04:32 Understanding the Serotonin Hypothesis in Depression
07:22 The Complex Nature of Depression and Serotonin
10:44 And Yet... Identifying the Need for Serotonin Support
13:25 The Importance of Quality and Safety in Supplements
19:09 Closing Thoughts and Resources
Sources and Notes:
- Joy Lab Program: Take the next leap in your wellbeing journey with step-by-step practices to help you build and maintain the elements of joy in your life.
- Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us over at Joylab.coach for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
- Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads: Bookshop.org
- Blaze J. (2021). A Comparison of Current Regulatory Frameworks for Nutraceuticals in Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United States. Innovations in pharmacy, 12(2), 10.24926/iip.v12i2.3694. https://doi.org/10.24926/iip.v12i2.3694 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8326690/
- Lacasse, J. R., & Leo, J. (2005). Serotonin and depression: a disconnect between the advertisements and the scientific literature. PLoS medicine, 2(12), e392. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.0020392
- Joy Lab Podcast #127: Lithium Orotate & Lithium Carbonate
- “We are not our trauma. We are not our brain chemistry. That’s part of who we are, but we’re so much more than that.” Sam Miller (visit their website).
Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.
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