Get your Zzz’s the Natural Way!

Having trouble sleeping like millions of other people? Try a natural approach of bringing the body back into balance by supplementing with 5HTP, eating foods sources high in tryptophan and naturally increasing your melatonin levels. 5HTP or 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is an amino acid, made by the body from Tryptophan. 5HTP boosts serotonin levels, a hormone responsible for regulating your mood. In turn melatonin, a hormone which regulates sleep and wake cycles, increases in the body. All three components work to bring the body back into its balanced cycle of restorative sleep, resulting in a healthier wake time. Want to try 5HTP? Look for it in the supplement section of health food stores, drug stores or in your local supermarket.

Before you run out and make your purchase, read on...

I ALWAYS encourage people to be informed about any supplement they put into their body. Here are some additional facts about 5HTP, Melatonin and Tryptophan, along with sources for more in depth scientific knowledge regarding them. Note, reading highly technical information can be boring and may put you to sleep!! Hmmm...taking 5HTP, increasing food sources rich in Tryptophan AND reading technical information, while sitting in the sun, may be just what a sleepless body needs for a great nights sleep!!

1. 5HTP is made from the seeds of an African plant called, Griffonia simplicifolia.
2. 5HTP may also be prescribed for conditions such as depression, fibromyalgia, migraines, anxiety and weight loss.

3. Great food sources of Tryptophan: turkey, chicken, beef, brown rice, nuts, fish, milk, eggs, cheese, fruit and vegetables. NOW you know why you feel so sleepy after a BIG turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day!!
4. Tryptophan is constantly competing with other amino acids to access the brain. Eat foods rich in carbohydrates to naturally increase the absorption of Tryptophan.
5. Melatonin production can be boosted naturally by increasing the body’s exposure to sunlight each day.

For more information about 5 HTP, Melatonin and Tryptophan:

http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/herbsvitaminsad/a/5HTP.htm

http://www.holistic-online.com/Remedies/Sleep/sleep_ins_melatonin-and-5HTP.htm

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/tc/melatonin-overview

http://www.nutritional-supplements-health-guide.com/sources-of-tryptophan.html