Evidence from several studies has indicated that low serotonin levels may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia.   

It is believed that serotonin abnormalities could be responsible for depression and insomnia—symptoms that many fibromyalgia patients suffer from.  Because 5-HTP could raise low serotonin levels, it may be helpful in alleviating such symptoms. 

Although no one knows exactly why 5-HTP effectively improves fibromyalgia symptoms, researchers believe that low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin may be involved in symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, as mentioned above.  Serotonin is believed to mediate slow-wave (deep) sleep, as well as influence how pain is perceived by the body and mind. 

Leading sleep and fibromyalgia experts H. Moldofsky and J.J. Warsh theorize that primary fibromyalgia may result from a deficiency of circulating tryptophan, an amino acid.  This lack of tryptophan in turn restricts serotonin and interferes with what is known as deep sleep. The researchers also reported that the higher the concentration of unbound tryptophan in the plasma of FMS patients, the more profound their symptoms. (1)

Additionally, 5-HTP is the intermediate between tryptophan and serotonin and it is readily absorbed and crosses the blood-brain barrier.  It is also promoted for depression. (2)

Even though the cause of depression varies widely from one person to the next, most people with depression have low serotonin levels. Whether low levels of serotonin cause depression or depression causes serotonin levels to fall is not yet clear but what is certain is that by raising serotonin levels depression can often be alleviated.

A 90-day study of the effects of 5-HTP on 50 fibromyalgia patients published in The Journal of International Medical Research; 1992; 20:182 – 189 concluded that a “good” or “fair” clinical improvement occurred in 50 per cent of the patients. These patients ranged in age from 18 to 65. When clinical variables such as tender point soreness, anxiety, pain intensity, quality of sleep and fatigue were compared with baseline results, researchers concluded that all symptoms had been  improved after 90 days of taking 100 milligrams of 5-HTP three times daily.

Low levels of serotonin in the brain can contribute to the development of depression.  Some studies indicate that 5-HTP may be as effective as certain antidepressant drugs in treating individuals with mild to moderate depression. Such individuals have shown improvements in mood, anxiety, insomnia, and physical symptoms.

1.  H. Moldofsky and J.J. Warsh; Pain; 1978; 5:65 71;  
2.  Birdsall, Altern Med Rev 8/98;3:271.

Some health care professionals believe that some (acute) stress can be a good thing, but chronic stress is not.  Therefore, our objective should be learning to manage long term stress.  Reducing stress can be achieved via meditation and relaxation techniques, as well as exercise, and the use of dietary supplements.  Read on about how chronic stress affects us physically and mentally.  You may be surprised at the consequences.

Common symptoms and results of stress can include:

• A fast heartbeat
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• A headache
• A stiff neck and/or tight shoulders
• Back pain
• Fast breathing
• Sweating, and sweaty palms
• An upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea

Long Term Stress can Have Physical and Emotional Effects

In healthy people, the nervous system helps maintain a balance between a stress response and relaxation.  However, for some people, this system remains on guard, which makes them unable to relax.  If this situation becomes chronic, a whole variety of physical and emotional stress-related symptoms and illnesses can follow.

Physical Symptoms:

• Accelerated aging
• Decreased immunity
• Heart disease
• Digestive issues
• Hormone imbalances
• Skin issues

Emotional Symptoms:

• Feel cranky and unable to deal with even small problems
• Feel frustrated, lose your temper more often, and yell at others for no reason
• Feel jumpy or tired all the time
• Find it hard to focus on tasks
• Worry too much about small things
• Feel that you are missing out on things because you can””””””””t act quickly
• Imagine that bad things are happening or about to happen

Read more in our article
The Physiological Effects of Stress

 

Products to Help Combat the Negative Effects of Stress

While stress seems to be unavoidable these days there are supplements that can help support you physically and mentally.

Calm Thoughts
Supports Calm Focus

This formula addresses the multiple, interdependent body systems that are involved with stress, including neuromodulation, energy generation, the adrenals, and the musculoskeletal system without sacrificing the clarity and focus you need to function effectively.

5-HTP
Supports Normal Sleep Cycles

Clinical studies have shown that 5HTP (L-5-Hydroxytryptophan) increases the amount and availability of serotonin, which helps support your healthy moods, eating habits, and sleep cycles that are generally affected when under stress.

SAMe
Supports a Positive Mood

Studies have shown that SAMe helps support a positive outlook due to its affect on the synthesis and production of mood-boosting neurotransmitters. People in the U.S. have been using SAM-e to help treat depression or to preserve emotional well-being.

Vitamin B-50 Complex
Supports Energy Production

Research has found that a B complex vitamin can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and stress that many people suffer from, such as depression, irritability, and improper nerve function, while helping to support the immune system.

Melatonin
Supports Normal Sleep Patterns

Melatonin is a neurohormone that is naturally produced in humans by the pineal gland. In addition to its hormonal and sleep regulating actions, melatonin has been shown to have strong antioxidant effects and may also help strengthen the immune system.