HEALTH SOLUTIONS: RECOMMENDED USE: 5-HTP is used by the body to make serotonin, an important neuro-transmitter for normal nerve and brain function and a healthy mood balance. DOSAGE FORM: Capsule RECOMMENDATIONS: Take 1 or 2 capsules three times daily with meals. To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, start dosing at 50 mg three times per day. Slowly increase to an effective dose over a period of two weeks. Use for a minimum of one week to see benefi cial effects. For use beyond one year, consult a health care practitioner DESCRIPTION: 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a substance produced in the body after eating foods that contain the amino acid L-tryptophan. The body uses 5-HTP to produce serotonin, an important neurotransmitter required for healthy nerve and brain function. Since it is closely linked to mood and relaxation, normal levels of serotonin allow for balanced moods and healthy sleep patterns. Recommended Daily Allowance: N/A Food Sources: Not found in foods to any appreciable extent (turkey, chicken, pork and cheese are good sources of tryptophan). Causes of Defi ciency: Serotonin deficiencies are often caused by excess stress and poor diet Symptoms of Defi ciency: Serotonin deficiencies are linked to depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, obesity and addiction. Complementary Nutrients: Carbohydrates trigger the production of serotonin. Vitamin B6 is also a critical nutrient for serotonin production. 5-HTP works in conjunction with Nature’s Harmony® Relora® to further combat carbohydrate and sugar cravings. HOW IT WORKS: The transmission of signals through different regions of the brain is via chemical messengers called neurotransmitters, such as serotonin. But for many people, poor diet combined with the stress of everyday life has resulted in serotonin deficiencies. 5-HTP can help re-establish normal serotonin levels in the brain because it acts as a precursor to serotonin production in the body. RESEARCH: Clinical studies have shown that supplementing with 5-HTP can help improve mood and relaxation by normalizing serotonin levels in the brain. SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects from 5-HTP are rare, typically mild and may include upset stomach and drowsiness. If side effects occur, they usually disappear within a few days. INTERACTIONS AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS: Consult a health care practitioner before use if pregnant, breastfeeding or taking carbidopa or drugs/supplements with serotonergic activity. These may include, but are not limited to, products such as L-tryptophan, S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), St. John’s wort, antidepressants, pain killers, over-the-counter cough and cold medication containing dextromethorphan, anti-nausea medication and anti-migraine medication. Discontinue use and consult a health care practitioner if you show signs of weakness, oral ulcers, or abdominal pain accompanied by severe muscle pain or if you experience skin changes. Do not use if you have scleroderma. Do not use while driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery since it may cause drowsiness. Some people may experience gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Consult a health care practitioner if symptoms persist. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS: 5-HTP may cause drowsiness. Do not take this product while driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery. Tests indicate that Nature’s Harmony® 5-HTP is free from the impurity peak-X.