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.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

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