Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Griffonia simplicifolia is a West African plant whose seeds are a natural source of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a direct precursor to serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, appetite, and satiety. The rationale for using Griffonia (or 5-HTP supplements derived from it) to support sugar cravings is based on the hypothesis that low serotonin levels can lead to increased carbohydrate cravings, as carbohydrate ingestion promotes serotonin production in the brain.

Several clinical trials have evaluated 5-HTP supplementation for appetite control and weight management. A few studies from the 1980s and 1990s reported that 5-HTP supplementation led to reduced carbohydrate and total calorie intake, possibly due to increased satiety. For example, a double-blind study (Ceci et al., 1989) found that obese women given 5-HTP consumed significantly fewer calories, with a particular reduction in carbohydrate intake. However, these studies often had small sample sizes, short durations, and methodological limitations.

There are no large, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating Griffonia or 5-HTP for sugar cravings in non-obese or general populations. While the theoretical basis is plausible and some early data suggest a potential effect, the overall level of scientific evidence remains limited and preliminary. More rigorous research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety for this specific use.

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