Carb cravings are a dieter’s nightmare. It’s relatively easy to stick to a diet for a couple of days but after that cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods often set in. If you are one of these people who have had cravings sabotage your diet time after time 5-HTP may be a nutrient that solves this problem, making it easier for you to reach your weight loss goal.

5-HTP,  short for 5 hydroxytryptophan is a chemical that is found in the brain and is involved in the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. The primary culprit for cravings for carbs is a decrease in serotonin levels. *Research shows that supplementing with 5-HTP helps to keep serotonin levels in balance, decreasing cravings for carbohydrates and your appetite in general.

*A study in the November 1992 “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” reported that obese women who took 900 milligrams a day of
5-HTP ate fewer carbohydrates and lost weight.

In one study, overweight men supplemented their diet with 5-HTP or a placebo supplement for 6 weeks. *The men taking 5-HTP lost significantly more weight and experienced fewer cravings for carbohydrate and sugar-rich foods. Adding 5-HTP to your overall diet, workout, and supplement plan can help you lose weight and feel better without the side effects found in many stimulant based weight loss nutrients like caffeine.

If you are taking certain medications, 5-HTP may not be right for you. As with all nutritional supplements, discuss them with your health care provider before using.

Source:
Cangiano C, Laviano A, Del Ben M, Preziosa I, Angelico F, Cascino A, Rossi-Fanelli F. Effects of oral 5-hydroxy-tryptophan on energy intake and macronutrient selection in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 1998 Jul;22(7):648-54.

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