5-htp and Fibromyalgia

5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)
Relief From Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is characterized by general aching, fatigue, morning stiffness, and sleep disturbances. It is a constant and gnawing generalized pain that profoundly interferes with people's ability to function. The pain generally affects the neck, shoulders, lower back, hips, shin, elbows, or knees and is typically worse in the morning.

Diagnostic Criteria for Fibromyalgia For a diagnosis of fibromyalgia to be made, the patient must meet all three major criteria and four or more of the minor criteria: Major criteria Generalized aches or stiffness in at least three anatomic sites for at least three months Six or more typical, reproducible tender points Exclusion of other disorders that can cause similar symptoms Minor criteria Generalized fatigue Chronic headache Sleep disturbance Neurological and psychological complaints Joint swelling Numbness or tingling sensations Irritable bowel syndrome Variation of symptoms in relation to activity, stress, and weather changes Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as quoted in the book: 5-HTP The Natural Way to Overcome Depression, Obesity, and Insomnia by Micael Murray, N.D.

Fibromyalgia is associated with low serotonin levels. As discussed in a study involving Fibromyalgia and migraines, increasing serotonin levels may have a direct role in mitigating the transmission of pain signals. The more serotonin present, the less vulnerable you are to pain. This may be accomplished by the fact that 5-HTP affects the levels of endorphins. Endorphins, which are chemically related to morphine, are the body's own natural pain relievers. Mounting evidence suggests that 5-HTP can boost endorphin levels by increasing serotonin, which regulates the production and release of endorphins.

5-HTP's effectiveness in this regard has been demonstrated by a 90-day study involving 50 patients suffering from fibromyalgia. A full 50% of the patients showed significant improvement.

One reason that 5-HTP may be helpful is related to the fact that it has been found that people with fibromyalgia spend less time in REM sleep. This results in sufferers waking in the morning tired, worn out and achy. As demonstrated elsewhere on this site, 5-HTP increases the amount of time spent in REM sleep, which in turn tends to help the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

It has been found that the combination of 5-HTP (100 mg), St. John's-wort extract (300 mg), and magnesium (200 to 250 mg) three times daily works better than any of these products alone.

Fibromyalgia is real and the pain experienced by those that suffer from it is not imagined. There are real causes, such as low levels of serotonin. The good news is that 5-HTP has been found by many to address those causes and bring a measure of relief. Note: Maximum benefit generally takes place after four weeks of continuous use.

5-HTP is Available Online ...from people that you trust!

*The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.