5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the well-known precursor to serotonin, a key neurotransmitter involved in mental health, temperature regulation, pain sensation, and circadian rhythm regulation through the production of melatonin. 5-HTP is best known for promoting a healthy mood, but its ability to upregulate serotonin may explain why numerous research trials have shown it can also improve sleep disturbances, binge eating, weight management, headaches, and fibromyalgia. 5-HTP has long been a staple nutrient for many people with low moods.
GABA, on the other hand, is an inhibitory neurotransmitter often used to relax the mind in cases of stress and insomnia. Research has shown that GABA can positively impact cortisol levels and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, making this amino acid particularly useful for people who have difficulty falling asleep because they cannot calm their racing minds.
Regardless of the neurotransmitter targeted, the body requires specific vitamins and minerals to synthesize and activate each neurotransmitter. For example, vitamin B-6, magnesium, and zinc are all required as cofactors for the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin, while vitamin B-6 and folate are necessary for the synthesis of dopamine. Understanding these physiological pathways may explain why these nutrients have demonstrated benefits for mood balance, either as standalone agents or in combination with pharmaceutical drugs. Magnesium and zinc supplementation have been shown to increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor and block NMDA receptors in the brain, augment SSRI therapy, and ultimately improve subjective mood markers. Various combinations of folate, vitamin B-12, and vitamin B-6 have all been shown to improve mental health outcomes compared to long-term supplementation. Mood-Matrix offers a therapeutic and well-balanced blend of amino acids, B vitamins, and targeted minerals to support healthy mood balance. Each B vitamin is provided in its biologically active coenzyme form, while magnesium and zinc are provided in their highly bioavailable glycinate chelate forms for optimal stability and absorption. In addition to these nutrients, Mood-Matrix strategically includes a standardized saffron extract to help maintain mood.
Saffron, formally known as crocus sativus, is a traditional spice that is now known to have multiple health applications. Its ability to block NMDA receptors and protect the nervous system likely explains why saffron has been the subject of several human clinical trials to demonstrate its effectiveness in promoting a healthy mood, even compared to traditional selective serotonin uptake inhibitor (SSRI) therapy, and also in supporting cognitive function. Saffron is also traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Modern research has confirmed that it can effectively improve the symptoms of erectile dysfunction and overall sexual function, while also improving sperm parameters.
Overall, Mood-Matrix has been formulated to optimally support healthy mood, cognition, and neurotransmitter levels in the brain. Mood-Matrix is essentially a targeted multivitamin-multimineral for the nervous system. Each bottle contains 90 vegetarian capsules.
Adults: Take 1 capsule 3 times daily with food or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Ingredients (per capsule): L-5-HTP (seed, Griffonia simplicifolia) 100 mg GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) 33.3 mg Saffron (stigma, Crocus sativus L., Iridaceae) 5:1 10 mg Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal-5-phosphate) 25 mg Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) 33.3 mg Folate (L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate) 100 mcg Magnesium (Albion di-magnesium malate, TRAACS magnesium bis-glycinate chelate) 25 mg Zinc (TRAACS zinc bis-glycinate chelate) 8 mg Non-medicinal ingredients: Glycine, brown rice flour, citric acid, silica, vegetable grade magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, maltodextrin. Capsule: hypromellose