

Stress, Sleep, and Weight Gain


nutrition articles

Stress, Sleep, and Weight Gain

Written by Allison Menor, BS


5-HTP, 5-hydroxytrptamine

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a messenger in our brain that helps prevent anxiety and depression and helps manage our appetite. Our bodies make serotonin from an amino acid known as L-Tryptophan. Our bodies then transform the L-Tryptophan into a metabolite called 5-HTP (5-hydroxytrptophan). With the help of Vitamin B6, it is converted into 5-HTP (5-hydroxytrptamine), also known as Serotonin.

One of the first books I read when I started working at InVite® was called “The Most Effective and Natural Cures on Earth,” by Jonny Bowden Ph.D., C.N.S. Bowden predominantly suggests 5-HTP for depression. However, he also discusses the product as a weight-loss protocol as well, specifically because it may greatly reduce carbohydrate cravings. When we alter levels of serotonin in the brain, it is possible that we will become much more likely to inhibit our own eating behaviors.



L-Theanine is a non-essential amino acid that is derived from tea leaves and mushrooms. It is most commonly known to assist in mental relaxation and reduction of anxiety. “Research on human volunteers has demonstrated that L-Theanine creates a sense of relaxation in approximately 30-40 minutes after ingestion via at least two different mechanisms. First, this amino acid directly stimulates the production of alpha brain waves, creating a state of deep relaxation coupled with mental alertness similar to what is achieved through meditation. Second, L-Theanine is involved in the formation of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA). GABA influences the levels of two other neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin, producing the key relaxation effect.”2

This relaxation effect is perfect for individuals that often have a hard time falling asleep; simply double the daytime serving size of L-Theanine to induce a much deeper, more refreshing level of sleep. Studies have shown that a lack of sleep is directly related to weight-gain over time. When our bodies have not acquired an adequate amount of sleep, our energy levels are lowered, and we are more likely to choose foods that have a higher amount of caffeine, fat, or sugar in order to temporarily fix fatigue. Moreover, we are also less likely to engage in physical activity as a result of these lower energy levels.

Lack of sleep will also cause our metabolism to function improperly. This primarily has to do with the hormones ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin is the hormone that tells our bodies when we are hungry. Leptin is the hormone that alerts us when we are full. When we are sleep deprived, our bodies create more ghrelin and less leptin, which inevitably makes choosing the healthiest options in the ideal amount almost impossible; you tend to be hungry and never satisfied with this hormone imbalance.







Express Shop