Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Here is something you may wish to consider. There is no evidence in the IBS research that shows that a 5-HTP supplement can be benefit IBSers. There is some evidence that it may be helpful for fibromyalgia. However, there is a fair amount of evidence that shows melatonin produced in the gut from 5-HTP can help with pain and other IBS symptoms. Melatonin in the gut, unlikely melatonin in the brain which promotes sleep, is known to modulate gut motility and viseral sensation.

I have been taking 3 mg melatonin at bedtime for about 2 months with good results. For a few of decades I have not been able to find anything to manage my IBS pain. About 2 weeks after taking melatonin the pain has almost disappeared. After three weeks I quite taking melatonin expect now I only take melatonin for 2-3 days if I feel pain beginning to start. It seems to abort the pain nicely for me.

Here is a list of research abstracts in the NIH PubMed database on the use of melatonin and IBS that you may find some interesting.

Something I should mention is that I found many melatonin supplements contained non-medicinal ingredients that were not IBS friendly such as lactose monohydrate. I finally found a pure synthetic melatonin with no additives at a local health food store. Also, the standard dose of 3 mg at bedtime may be to large for a child. If you decide to give some to your daughter you may want to start with a lower dose - say 1 mg. Also, some manufacturers sell melatonin in a sublingual form - that is it dissolves under the tongue. You want the melatonin to get to the stomach where it can begin to act so make sure it is swallowed and not dissolved under the tongue.

If you do decide to give it a try please tell us how it goes.

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STABLE: ♂, IBS-D 50+ years - Science of IBS

The FODMAP Approach to Managing IBS Symptoms
Evidence-based Dietary Management of Functional GI Symptoms: The FODMAP Approach
FODMAP Chart & Cheatsheet
The Role of Food & Dietary Intervention in IBS

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