• Helps support healthy mood balance
• Helps promote healthy glucose metabolism
• Source of amino acids involved in muscle protein synthesis

5-Hydroxytryptophan (“5-HTP”) is a naturally-occurring amino acid precursor to serotonin. Numerous studies during the ‘90s, including those randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, confirmed the safety and efficacy of 5-HTP in reducing appetite and food intake in obese healthy and non-insulin-dependent diabetic individuals. A 2006 study in mice concluded, “5-HTP-induced anorexia may be mediated by facilitation of leptin secretion. Vitamins B6 and C are important cofactors in the 5-HTP to serotonin pathway. Among the several serotonin receptors thus identified, the 5HT2C receptors are suspected in control of food intake. Mice without this receptor exhibit increased food intake and become obese.

DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) is a combination of the d- and the l- forms of this essential amino acid. Phenylalanine suppresses appetite by regulating the release of cholecystokinin, which in turns signals satiety in the brain. D-phenylalanine increases endorphins, while L-phenylalanine is an amphetamine-like stimulatory compound. DLPA has been found to elevate mood, curb appetite and reduce pain.

L-Tyrosine, an essential amino acid is needed for conversion into the catecholamine neurotransmitters stress depletes: dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. It is also a precursor for thyroxine. Doctors use tyrosine as a mood elevator, to increase alertness after sleep deprivation and as an appetite suppressant; although support for the latter appears anecdotal.

L-Glutamine, well–recognized for gut and immune support, has also been espoused to reduce carbohydrate cravings and support alcohol withdrawal, although the mechanism of action for these benefits is not known.

Chromium, as chromium picolinate is widely used to optimize insulin function; thereby preventing swings in blood glucose levels that may be responsible for carbohydrate cravings. The mineral in the form present was indeed demonstrated to reduce carbohydrate cravings in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.