The human brain is a complicated structure that relies on multiple chemicals to communicate information. For example, the neurotransmitter serotonin plays a significant role in mental health, temperature regulation and pain sensation, while the hormone melatonin is needed to regulate the circadian rhythm. As one can imagine, any nutrients that can support these brain chemicals have vast therapeutic potential. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is one such nutrient, as it is the direct precursor to serotonin and, subsequently, melatonin.
5-HTP is most notably used to support healthy mood balance. Yet, its ability to up-regulate serotonin provides application in many other conditions with mental and psychological components. Numerous research trials have found that 5-HTP can also improve sleep difficulties, binge eating, weight management, headaches and fibromyalgia.
The conversion of 5-HTP into serotonin requires vitamin B-6 as a cofactor, just as the synthesis of GABA and dopamine also require vitamin B6. This is thought to explain why vitamin B-6 as a standalone treatment has shown to be beneficial in treating premenstrual symptoms, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and pregnancy-induced nausea. Pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) is the coenzyme form of vitamin B6 that is biologically active. Unlike pyridoxine HCl, P-5-P is immediately ready to be used within the nervous system after absorption from the digestive tract.
Glycine acts as another important cellular signal within the brain. Glycine’s role in the nervous system is evident through multiple clinical trials examining the benefits in sleep and obsessive-compulsiveness among other mental conditions. For example, glycine ingestion one hour before sleep has been found to improve sleep latency and quality, reduce morning fatigue and improve next-day cognitive performance.
Cyto·Calm provides a therapeutic combination of 5-HTP, biologically activate vitamin B6 and glycine. Collectively, these nutrients act to support and balance the brain’s neurotransmitters and work synergistically to improve mood and sleep.
