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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Sources & Notes:

• Free Resilience Quiz and free Mini-Course: Take our Free Resilience Quiz and then sign up for your free Mini-Course to identify your mental health strengths and obstacles and take meaningful actions to support your resilience.
• Supplements noted (see where to shop below):
• NeuroMood Pure Pack (this is our favorite mood-supporting packet that includes vitamins, minerals, EFAs, curcumin, and amino acids [with 50 mg 5-HTP])
• NeuroCalm (a blend that includes 5-HTP to support production of calming neurotransmitters)
• Liposomal NeuroCalm (same as above, just liposomal delivery)
• CereVive (includes amino acid precursors and bioactive nutrients that support healthy levels of neurotransmitters)
• Cerenity (comprehensive formula designed to address daily stress by increasing the production of the calming neurotransmitters serotonin and gamma-amino butyric acid)
• Cerenity PM (an alternative if sleep is also an issue)
• 5-HTP Synergy (this can be a good option for those who do not want a product that includes additional ingredients)
• Where to shop:
• Our partner store at Fullscript: This is where you can find high-quality supplements and wellness products. Except for our CBD Gummies, any product links mentioned in the show notes below will require an account. Sign up for your free Fullscript account.
• Resilient Remedies: This is where you can find our line of trusted, high-quality CBD gummies: https://www.resilientremedies.com/
• Read more at the NMH blog:
• 5-HTP for Anxiousness
• 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. Your Joy Lab membership also includes our NMH Community!
• NMH Community: Access lots of extra resilience-boosting resources AND join a group of inspiring folks who play an integral role in keeping this podcast going.
• 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
• Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join us at NaturalMentalHealth.com for exclusive emails, updates, and additional strategies.
• "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).
• Check out our favorite resilience-boosting reads at Bookshop.org

Full transcript here.

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. Consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program.See our terms for more information.

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