Supplements for Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most natural instincts of humans. It is alright to feel anxious before an interview, a live performance, results of an exam and so on. But, if you are one of those who experiences anxiety for no apparent reason, then you need to find out why. This feeling can sometimes have a grave impact on your everyday life. In this phase you may feel restless, tensed, irritable and unable to concentrate on the task at hand. This was the mental instability, but this also manifests into various other problems such as regular headaches, muscle tension, insomnia, chest tightness and sweating. A doctor is the right judge of all the anxiety symptoms, therefore consult a doctor first and then if it is general anxiety disorder you are experiencing, consider supplements for this problem. These are quite effective.

Anxiety Supplements
Apart from the antianxiety medication that you are prescribed, there are certain natural or herbal supplements available that can calm your nerves. You can incorporate these in your daily diet and control those overwhelming experiences which leave you drained, physically and emotionally as well. There are certain nutritional requirements of the body, which if not met, can lead to the symptoms of anxiety. These supplements contain those nutrients that will help you overcome the problems faced due to the same.

S-Adenosyl Methionine is a nutrient in the body that is known to provide relief from depression and anxiety. Another nutrient is the 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan (5-HTP), which is the precursor for neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is a very effective antidepressant and melatonin is the one that regulates the circadian rhythm, that is the sleep cycle as well. Thus, you will now understand that the deficiency of these neurotransmitters may lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression. There are dietary supplements of 5HTP and S- Adenosyl methionine available over the counter for treating panic attacks and anxiety. These work as appetite suppressants, antidepressants and sleep aids. There are various other natural products that are also quite popular to relieve stress and anxiety.

Natural Supplements

Kava Kava - This is a very popular herb in many European countries, used in the treatment of anxiety and sleep disorders. The best part about this is that it is not addictive like its synthetic counterparts.

Passion Flower - This is a very traditional herbal medicine that has been used in America to treat anxiety and insomnia. Passion flower is often combined with other herbs such as valerian and kava also known as calming herbs. It is said to affect the secretion of Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) that acts like a sedative and calms the nerves.

St John's Wort - This is also a mild sedative like kava kava that helps in the enhancement of the secretion of dopamine and serotonin that help in uplifting moods.

These were the best supplements for anxiety disorder available in the market. Herbal supplements are available as infusions, teas and tinctures. There are other nutrients that have been speculated to be deficient in individuals.

Magnesium - It is one of the important co-factors required for the activation of various enzymes. Magnesium deficiency is said to cause symptoms of hyperactivity, restlessness, insomnia and facial tics. Magnesium supplements however have not shown to alleviate these symptoms completely. Apart from these other substances like L-arginine and L-lysine have shown to play an important role in anxiety relief.

Anxiety Supplements for Children
Anxiety in children may be caused due to nutritional deficiencies, allergies or other disorders. Therefore, should be consulted with a pediatrician. Before beginning any supplements an expert consultant is a must. Vitamin B supplements have proven to work in children with anxiety disorders. Iron deficiency is also a cause for anxiety, so iron supplements may work. Another important deficiency is that of omega-3 fatty acids. A healthy diet including fish should be included in a child's meal instead of supplementation.

These supplements are becoming very popular compared to the usual medications. Herbal ones are considered safer and non addictive. However, you must remember that it is recommended that you do not take these in addition to the prescribed medications. Along with benefits, an overdose of these products has its side effects. Before beginning any supplementation, always be sure that they are suitable for you.