Benefits of 5-HTP for Fibromyalgia

LifeSource Vitamins

The herbal supplement 5-HTP has a number of health benefits, and is proving to be hugely beneficial for those suffering from fibromyalgia.

There is a growing body of research that indicates a very strong possibility that the supplement 5-HTP (L-5-Hydroxytryptophan) may be hugely beneficial for a number of problems, but most especially fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), a chronic pain and fatigue condition.

Fibromyalgia is characterized by several major and minor criteria. The major criteria, of which all three must be met, are:

· widespread pain, a general aching or stiffness of at least three sites on the body for at least three months;

· prolonged pressure sensitivity in six or more of the numerous typical tender points;

· and of course the exclusion of other similar disorders.

The minor criteria, of which at least four must be met, are:

· general fatigue and sleep disturbances or insomnia;

· irritable bowel syndrome;

· chronic headaches and facial pain, often related to soreness and stiffness in the neck and shoulders;

· heightened sensitivity, such as to odors, noises, bright lights, and touch;

· numbing or tingling in the hands and feet;

• swelling in the joints;
• chest pain;

· dryness of the eyes and skin;

· unexplained dizzy spells;

· and depression, anxiety, and similar mood disorders.

There have been several studies published by the Journal of International Medical Research on the effects of 5-HTP on fibromyalgia sufferers. According to one study, "all the clinical parameters studied were significantly improved by treatment with 5-HTP..." Another states that the "overall evaluation of the patient condition assessed by the patient and the investigator indicated a 'good' or 'fair' clinical improvement in nearly 50% of the patients during the treatment period." (Both studies can be accessed through NCBI.)

Many people have found for themselves how effective this herbal supplement can be. It often has been found to be helpful with insomnia, pain and all major fibromyalgia symptoms, including depression. It may also be helpful with obesity, a common 'side problem' related to fibromyalgia due to a general lowering of physical activity.

5-HTP is most commonly extracted from the seeds of the Griffonia plant. It is a substance which, in the body, is easily transformed into serotonin, a chemical that helps to regulate mood and appetite, as well as being necessary in producing melatonin. Tryptophan is a similar chemical, but it is harder for the body to absorb, and is a step further away from serotonin, requiring the body to do more to reach the desired chemical.

There is a strong link between serotonin deficiency and fibromyalgia; some have even claimed that fibromyalgia is in essence nothing more than an overall serotonin deficiency, though that has not been backed up by clinical studies. However, the evidence is nearly overwhelming that raising serotonin levels is at least beneficial for fibromyalgia sufferers.

The usual recommended dose of 5-HTP to try to help with fibromyalgia is 300 mg per day, usually in 3 100 mg doses, but as with any such substance, you should consult with a medical professional before you begin to include it in your treatment regimen.

May 7, 2008 Genevieve Kiger

Proudly Made in the USA!

Every LifeSource Vitamins product exceeds all regulatory standards and requirements set forth in the FDA's Code of Federal Regulation. ( 21 CFR, part 111 ) as well as all Good Manufacturing Practices enforced by the FDA. CGMP's provide for systems that assure proper design, monitoring, and control of manufacturing processes and facilities. ( CGMP ).

LifeSource Vitamins: Driven by Faith ~ Powered by God

Have Questions on this or any other product or health issue for you or a loved one? It can be overwhelming we know. Call us, we will walk you through what supplements will help you and which ones you really don’t need. It’s what we do! Toll-Free: 800-567-8122

LifeSource Vitamins – Founded in 1992

100% of our profits are donated to Christian Organizations like these and many others worldwide:

Campus Crusade for Christ - CRU

The Jesus Film Project

World Vision

The Tim Tebow Foundation

Compassion International

Samaritan’s Purse

The Herman and Sharron Show on CTN (Christian Television Network) and many more…

www.LifesourceVitamins.com

E-mail Us: [email protected]

or Call Us: 800.567.8122

We Are Built on Compassion - Driven by Faith & Powered by God!

*Disclaimer: None of the above statements have been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. As always, consult your physician before taking any and all supplements. LifeSource Vitamins. Individual results may vary.

Disclaimer: All the information contained throughout this website is based upon the opinions of the founder of LifeSource Vitamins, Bruce Brightman, and the entire team at LifeSource Vitamins whose relentless research and studies have been ongoing since 1992. Other articles and information are based on the opinions of the authors, who retain the copyright as marked in the article. The information on this site is not intended to replace your health care professional, but to enhance your relationship with them. Doing your own studying and research and taking your health care into your own hands is always best, especially in partnership with your health care professional.

If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any medical conditions, always consult your health care professional before taking supplements based on the information on this site.

LifeSource Vitamins: from the nutrients we choose, to the way we run our business, we answer to God in all we do!