Anxiety

Anxiety can be a normal state of mind that allows you to react appropriately to uncomfortable or dangerous situations. However, several million Americans find themselves burdened by excessive apprehension, fear, and stress. When this reaction is disproportionate to the situation, it may be the result of an anxiety disorder. The three main causes of these disorders are genetics, life experiences, and brain chemistry.

Increased blood pressure, heart rate, and sweating are common ways that feelings of anxiety are exhibited. Anxiety can also manifest itself in chest pains, muscle tension, panic attacks, and shortness of breath, as well as a variety of other symptoms. See a doctor if any of these problems interfere with your daily life or become crippling. If your anxiety is not hindering your normal activities but is causing you discomfort, the following nutrients may be sufficient in treating the problem. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and sugar may also help. However, you may still want to consider seeing a doctor, who can help you discover the root of your anxiety.

• B-complex vitamins
• Calcium
• Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA)
• Glutamine
• Glycine
• Inositol
• Magnesium
• Theanine