Exam fear-5HTP
Printed From: Dairy Science and Food Technology
Category: Nutrition and heath matters
Forum Name: Nutrition and health
Forum Description: General matters related to nutrition
URL: https://www.dairyscience.info/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=253
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Topic: Exam fear-5HTP
Posted By: sarah952
Subject: Exam fear-5HTP
Date Posted: 26 Jan 2011 at 11:06pm
A family member gets really distressed around exam time. They hope to go to uni in September. We have been told that a herbal supplement 5HTP might help. What is 5 HTP might it help with nerves?
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Replies:
Posted By: formula123
Date Posted: 28 Jan 2011 at 10:46pm
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Medication is generally not the way to help young people that are worried about exams. Universities and colleges usually have very good student support officers that can help when they get there! Not sure whether this sort of support is available at school. Lots of exam practice, relaxation techniques and meditation may also work for some. I am aware of a number of students who have been helped by a http://www.thehealingoasis.co.uk - complimentary medical treatment in Northern Ireland.
5HTP is an abbreviation of 5-hydroxytryptophan which is a precursor involved in serotonin production. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in regulating electrical impulses in the brain. This particular neurotransmitter is understood to have a role in the regulation of mood and behaviour, and there is evidence suggesting that it is has an important influence on e.g. anxiety.
Commercially 5HTP can be obtained from the seeds of the plant Griffin simplicifolia and is readily available from health food shops.
While there is http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/5-hydroxytryptophan-000283.htm - evidence to suggest that 5HTP has value in treating certain emotional disorders I am not aware of it having been used for "exam nerves".
While 5HTP may well have benefits there may also be http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/5-hydroxytryptophan-000283.htm - some risks.
DISCLAIMER: I am not recommending any treatment or endorsing any therapy for anxiety. Any one experiencing anxiety should discuss their concerns with their doctor first.
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Posted By: sarah952
Date Posted: 29 Jan 2011 at 6:04pm
| Tnks sincerely. We have spoken to Joanne. BTW does 5HTP need other foods to work and is it in some foods? |
Posted By: formula123
Date Posted: 29 Jan 2011 at 11:59pm
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5HTP is converted to serotonin by the enzyme tryptophan decarboxylase. This enzyme requires pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) to work.
Many foods contain vitamin B6. Cereals, meat, poultry, fish, and certain fruits e.g. bananas and vegetables e.g. beans are good sources. Fortified breakfast cereals are usually rich sources.
I am not aware of any normal foods that contain 5HTP.
CAUTION: Consumption of high concentrations of 5HTP and vitamin B6 is not recommended and may be harmful.
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