Anxiety

Natural Anxiety Remedies

Anxiety is a natural physiologic response to stress. Everyone experiences differing levels of anxiety, but it’s considered to be a problem or a disorder when these feelings do not go away. Different types of anxiety range from general anxiety, which includes difficulty thinking, irritability, and panic disorder with attacks of fear, to social anxiety. Constant anxiety can lead to physical symptoms including difficulty sleeping, abdominal pain, digestive issues and hormone imbalances including thyroid dysfunction.

If you have concerns about your anxiety, it’s best to be evaluated by a mental health professional. You can additionally treat and lessen anxiety naturally by following certain dietary and nutritional supplemental changes at home.

Things to Avoid

Try to stay away from, or limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption. As a stimulant, caffeine can only increase or worsen anxiety, and alcohol can change levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain. While it’s common for people suffering from anxiety to drink alcohol especially while socializing, the short-term calming effect of doing so could backfire in the long term, leading to a dependence on alcohol which could not only make anxiety symptoms worse, but lead to a host of other physical and emotional issues.

Likewise, if you suffer from any food allergies or food sensitivities, it’s best to respect those sensitivities and avoid consuming triggering foods. Surprisingly, certain foods can trigger panic attacks in many people. These can include anything from junk food, foods with too much salt or sugar, foods pumped with additives and food dyes or whole food groups like gluten. Food sensitivities can be determined by a blood test that is offered at our clinic.

Things to Try

• B-complex vitamins: B vitamins are essential for neurotransmitter production and transmission. They can also provide energy for the “wired and tired” anxious person.
• Chamomile tea: Matricaria chamomilla is an herb that reduces nervous tension. The action of the herb is slow and gentle with effects that are long lasting. Not only is it a good choice for people suffering with anxiety, but also for those experiencing abdominal pain as well.
• Magnesium: A key nutrient in neurotransmitter formation as well as known for its calming and relaxing properties, Magnesium is a powerful nutrient to help ease anxiety. Taken at night it can also help promote restful sleep. Foods rich in magnesium include spinach, swiss chard, black beans and almonds to name a few. You can also take magnesium supplements, but be sure to work closely with your doctor or nutritionist before beginning a supplementation regiment.
• Inositol: This natural supplement is commonly used to help with anxiety as well as depression. Again, speak with your doctor before beginning a supplementation regiment.
• Herbs: Herbs in general are a great way to support the adrenal glands and decrease the negative effects of stress. However, if you are currently on medication, consult with the doctors in our clinic to customize and formulate an individualized plan, as some herbs and supplements can interact with certain medications.

Take the Next Step

In conclusion, if you or somebody you care about is suffering from anxiety, we encourage you to change your lifestyle and treat your symptoms as naturally as you are able. We are here to assist you on your journey and provide recommendations. Contact us for a free consultation and discover how we can help you begin a path to healing and wholeness.