Evidence supporting the use of: 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
For the health condition: Sugar Cravings
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a naturally occurring amino acid and chemical precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, and satiety. The rationale for using 5-HTP to help manage sugar cravings arises from scientific observations that low serotonin levels can increase carbohydrate cravings and intake, likely as a compensatory mechanism to boost serotonin production in the brain. Supplementing with 5-HTP may increase central serotonin levels, which in turn could promote satiety and reduce cravings for sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods.
Several small clinical studies have investigated this effect. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (1992) found that obese women given 5-HTP consumed fewer calories, particularly from carbohydrates, compared to placebo. Another study in non-obese women reported similar results, with 5-HTP reducing caloric and carbohydrate intake and subjective appetite. However, these studies are generally limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and variable quality.
Overall, the evidence for 5-HTP’s effectiveness in reducing sugar cravings is preliminary but promising. It is not a traditional remedy for sugar cravings, but its use is supported by plausible biological mechanisms and some scientific studies. However, larger and longer-term trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety. The current rating reflects modest scientific support, but 5-HTP should be used with caution due to potential side effects and interactions, especially with other serotonergic agents.
More about 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
More about Sugar Cravings
Other ingredients used for Sugar Cravings
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)cassia bark
chicory
chromium
fenugreek
glucomannan
hydroxycitric acid
inulin
l-tryptophan
magnesium
monkfruit
relora® (proprietary)
stevia
sugar alcohol
zinc
kidney beans
1-deoxynojirimycin
aspartame
Apple Cider Vinegar
Berberis (unspecified)
Bitter principals
Carob
D-Pinitol
Erythritol
Vinegar
Other health conditions supported by 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
Addictions (general remedies for)Addictions (sugar or refined carbohydrates)
Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Appetite (deficient)
Appetite (excessive)
Bulimia
Depression
Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Insomnia
Irritability
Migraine
Mood Swings
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Sleep (restless and disturbed)
Stress
Sugar Cravings
Worry
Products containing 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
Integrative Therapeutics
5-HTP
Douglas Laboratories
5-HTP
Pure Encapsulations
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) 100 mg
Pure Encapsulations
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) 100 mg
Pure Encapsulations
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) 50 mg
Pure Encapsulations
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) 50 mg
Douglas Laboratories
5-HTP Plus Formula
Thorne
5-Hydroxytryptophan
Designs For Health
5-HTP Supreme™
Designs For Health
5-HTP Synergy™
Pure Encapsulations
CarbCrave Complex
Designs For Health
CraveArrest™
Designs For Health
IBSynergy™
Designs For Health
Insomnitol™ Capsules
Designs For Health
Insomnitol™ Chewables
Pure Encapsulations
MotilPro
Designs For Health
NeuroCalm™
Designs For Health
Neurolink™
Pure Encapsulations
NeuroMood Pure Pack
Pure Encapsulations
NeuroPure
Pure Encapsulations
SeroPlus
Metagenics
SeroSyn