5-HTP has been helpful

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I learned about “my little problem” last year, as a 54 year old. That has gotten me doing a lot of reading, and has led me to discover that ASD folks like me are prone to stomach disorders, insomnia and anxiety issues (amongst other things).

At some point, I read that 5-HTP can be helpful for these problems. I decided to give it a try. I’m taking some stuff that says, on the label, to take 1 100 mg pill a day – not with food. It’s been very helpful.

I’ve had really bad insomnia for as long as I can remember. Now I seem to sleep most nights (but not always).

I was popping antacids and proton pump inhibitors like candy. Now I rarely have stomach problems, although I still have to be careful with garlic and raw onions.

I never realized how much anxiety was affecting me, until I stopped taking the pills for a few days (I had run out, and didn’t get around to renewing) and it crept back up on me (“Oh no, am I screwing up at work again? “ “What are people saying/thinking about me?” “Time to find a new job already?”).

I really, really, really hate the idea of life on a crutch. I’ve read enough to know that 5-HTP isn’t for everyone. But it’s led to a very significant improvement in my life in the past couple of months.

Thought I’d share.

hiya Shaleman welcome to our club
from WebMD:

"Don’t use 5-HTP until more is known. 5-HTP might be UNSAFE. Some people who have taken it have come down with eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS), a serious condition involving extreme muscle tenderness (myalgia) and blood abnormalities (eosinophilia). Some people think the EMS might be caused by an accidental ingredient (contaminant) in some 5-HTP products. But there is not enough scientific evidence to know if EMS is caused by 5-HTP, a contaminant, or some other factor. Until more is known, avoid taking 5-HTP."

That case was in 2010 and for the american market only, safeguards were put in place to maintain quality control.

5-HTP is not recommended for use when combined with medications that affect levels of serotonin.

Shaleman - Your crutch is very small one, if it helps you then that is fantastic, it's just another supplement to your diet.