5-HTP (didn't know where to place this topic)

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Has anyone here taken it (5 HTP) for anything that it's supposed to help with, not just weight loss, such as insomnia, depression, or for girls, PMDD? Or even anxiety. I am not looking into it for weight, just the other things it supposedly helps with. Feedback is greatly appreciated.

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  • loblo23
    loblo23 Posts: 5
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    I take it for really mild depression and occasional anxiety! Works pretty well for me..just have to be consistent and take it everyday to feel the effects! give it a shot..wayy better than taking anti-depression meds since it doesn't have the nasty side effects :)
  • bookyeti
    bookyeti Posts: 544 Member
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    After a bit of research, I asked my doctor if I could try using 5-HTP to help me with mild depression (my Mom passed away in Dec, and I'm still in quite a funk). I wanted to avoid going on a SSRI, and 5-HTP was touted as a milder alternative, with less side effects. I had hoped it would help with my low energy levels and low moods.

    I've been on it for well over a month now - almost two months, actually. I take 100mg x 2/day.

    I have found that it has actually *increased* my appetite by two-fold. While I have always had a healthy appetite, I don't seem satiated after eating like I normally do, since taking the 5-HTP. Not good! :-/

    In the meantime, I've read a lot of contradictory information about how 5-HTP can affect appetite... some references refer to it as an appetite supressant, while others say it can increase appetite. ???

    I guess it all comes down to how each individual reacts to it. I haven't really noticed a lot of lift in my mood or energy, personally. It's pricey, and with such a lack of results, I've decided to stop taking it.