The modern Western World appears to have created an epidemic of anxiety. This likely relates to the hectic nature of our existence, something which many are not able to cope with over the long term. Anxiety is difficult to define, and science is not entirely sure what anxiety is or what causes it. It is described as an uncomfortable and uncontrollable feeling, but it may have no obvious cause, and may have no obvious symptoms other than a general feeling of panic and agitation. Anxiety can manifest as short spells of intense anxiety and panic attacks, as longer term more mild feelings of uncomfortableness, or both. Controlling anxiety is difficult because the causes are not understood. Often times there is no obvious trigger, while in other cases a clear trigger event is identifiable. However, biochemically, it is not fully understood what leads to the feeling and therefore preventing or treating them is difficult. However there are a number of nutritional strategies that may work and may help relieve anxiety.
Finding the cause of the anxious feelings is also highly important. The cause is most often a single stressful event or an accumulation of chronic stress. A high quality diet and regular exercise can help reduce the impact of stress, but eliminating the cause of the stress is the most important strategy. However, this is not alway possible. Also understanding that stresses come and go, and that things will improve given time is important, as this allows coping strategies in the short term that can be used until the stressful event has faded into the past.
One of the main theories is that anxiety occurs due to a change in brain chemistry. One theory is that low levels of serotonin can trigger anxiety. This is the basis for administering selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to those with anxiety. However, treatment with SSRIs is not considered highly effective, and may not work in every case. This suggests that a single cause for anxiety due to a lack of serotonin is not the entire story. A number of nutrients also are able to raise levels of serotonin in the brain, and in particular the amino acids L-tryptophan, and a metabolite of L-tryptophan called 5-hydroxytryptophan are effective in this regard. People report good results from these compounds, but they are not a miracle cure for anxiety. One way that serotonin boosting nutrients may work is through the ability to induce sleep. Having consistent deep sleep is sometimes all that is needed to help an individual overcome anxiety by providing a mechanism to allow recuperation from the stress that may be causing it.
Valerian is a beneficial herb for anxiety, although it is not clear how it works in this regard. Other calming herbs such as chamomile may also be effective. Having a good quality of sleep is highly important as anxiety often leaves a person with a sleep deficit, as they spend the night repeatedly waking, or are unable to sleep because of their feelings. Breaking this cycle can be important.
One herb that is particularly useful is valerian. Valerian does not work by boosting serotonin levels in the brain, but instead may work on the GABA system. Valerian has been shown to have anxiety relieving effects, and the reason for this is not clear. Both tea and capsules of valerian are available, and these can be used before bed, again, to obtain a good level of sleep. This may be the reason that valerian is so effective, because like L-tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan, valerian may relieve stress through a better quality of sleep. Stress is a primary candidate as the cause of anxiety and so any strategy to reduce the accumulation of stress from different sources is advantageous in preventing anxiety. A healthy high quality diet that can reduce the impact of stress, as well as regular physical activity are also highly important. Having healthy relationships with family and friends can also be a very good strategy to overcome anxiety, so keep your friends and family close by during hard times, and try to avoid negative situations and people.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy and Protect Yourself
RdB
