Blood pressure disorders #
Anxiety causes the release of stress hormones in the body. These hormones trigger an increase in the heart rate and a narrowing of the blood vessels. Both of these changes cause blood pressure to rise, sometimes dramatically.
Anxiety-induced increases in blood pressure are temporary and will subside once the anxiety lessens. Regularly having high levels of anxiety, however, can cause damage to the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels, in the same way that long-term hypertension can.
Along with following the 5 fundamentals here, there are some supplements that may help. If you are NOT taking medication, coq10 and beetroot may help with promoting healthy blood pressure. As usual, if you are on blood pressure medication consult with your doctor prior to taking any supplements. Blood pressure medications paired with any blood pressure supplement may cause an extreme and dangerous blood pressure rise or drop. (Source)
Gaba deficiencies or imbalance #
GABA, or gamma amino butyric acid, is an amino acid manufactured in the brain that acts as a neurotransmitter and a natural tranquilizer. GABA supplements are used to promote relaxation and sleep.
Gaba deficiency symptoms are diverse and can affect the whole body. If you struggle with pain, anxiety, IBS, reflux, sweaty hands or dozens of other health concerns, you may be showing Gaba deficiency symptoms.
Supplementing with GABA may act as a gentle non-addictive sedative, helping to ease anxiety and stress, which may help promote better sleep. GABA may also help alleviate depression, help in the treatment of epilepsy/seizures, and may help treat chronic pain. GABA may also be helpful in easing mood swings associated with PMS.
If you are interested in trying a GABA supplement, this would be a great start.
Gluten intolerance #
The term gluten refers to a group of proteins found in a variety of cereal grains, including wheat, rye, and barley.
While most people are able to tolerate gluten, it can trigger a number of adverse side effects in those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
In addition to causing digestive distress, headaches, and skin problems, some report that gluten may contribute to psychological symptoms like anxiety
Celiac disease is associated with a higher risk of anxiety disorders. While research has found mixed results, some studies show that following a gluten-free diet can decrease anxiety in those with celiac disease.
Those with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may also experience adverse side effects when gluten is consumed, including symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and muscle pain.
In some cases, those with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may also experience psychological symptoms, such as depression or anxiety. (Source)
Gut Problems #
Increasing evidence has associated gut microbiota to both gastrointestinal and extragastrointestinal diseases. Dysbiosis and inflammation of the gut have been linked to causing several mental illnesses including anxiety and depression, which are prevalent in society today. (Source)
You can assist your gut by eating healthier foods and changing your diet. Adding fiber may help as well as probiotic. The best sources of fiber are from natural foods rich in fiber, but fiber supplements are available as well.
Lactose Intolerant #
Certain foods may aggravate the symptoms of anxiety if they don’t sit well with you.. Coffee and refined sugars stimulate the body, and thus amplify jitteriness, while acidic foods have been shown to drop magnesium levels, which has been directly linked to higher levels of anxiety. One of the most inconspicuous culprits is dairy. Yes, unfortunately, that delicious cheese plate from dinner the night before may be why your anxiety is worse the next morning. (Source)
Getting checked by your doctor is the best way to find out if you could be even mildly lactose intolerant. You can also try just changing your diet on your own and going lactose free and seeing if that makes a difference. If you go with changing your diet, wait a few weeks before deciding if it works for you.
Low Zinc #
Being zinc deficient may indirectly cause anxiety due to the myriad of issues it may cause. A blood test or doctor visit is necessary to check your essential mineral levels. More Details
Zinc deficiency is characterized by growth retardation, loss of appetite, and impaired immune function. In more severe cases, zinc deficiency causes hair loss, diarrhea, delayed sexual maturation, impotence, hypogonadism in males, and eye and skin lesions . Weight loss, delayed healing of wounds, taste abnormalities, and mental lethargy can also occur . Many of these symptoms are non-specific and often associated with other health conditions; therefore, a medical examination is necessary to ascertain whether a zinc deficiency is present. (Source)
MTHFR Gene Mutation #
This particular gene mutation may cause anxiety if you have it, and the only way to find out is to get checked out by your doctor. Common gene mutations such as MTHFR can reduce your body’s ability to convert nutrients, including B vitamins, folate and choline to their active form via methylation. Other mutations, such as Vitamin D receptor mutations can lead to vitamin D deficiency. Mutations that control sulfation can lead to low zinc levels. More information can be found here.
Serotonin Deficiency or imbalance #
Serotonin imbalance in the brain may cause depression, anxiety, and sleep trouble. Many doctors will prescribe a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) to treat depression. (Source)
Before taking any kind of medication, you can always weigh out your options and try changing your diet on your own and seeing if you feel any better by eating more foods that encourage, boost or regulate serotonin levels.
Serotonin supplements are also available. It is strongly advised you check with your doctor before taking any supplement.
5-HTP is a supplement that may help if you have anxiety caused by serotonin imbalance or disorder. I strongly advise not to take 5-HTP unless recommended by your doctor.
Thyroid disorder #
Hypothyroidism is a condition that can leave you feeling sluggish and contribute to weight gain and mood changes, so it’s not a surprise that it can be tied to depression. But hypothyroidism symptoms can also include anxiety. In fact, a review published in June 2018 in JAMA Psychiatry found people with hypothyroidism are more than twice as likely as people without the condition to develop anxiety disorders and that 29.8 percent of all anxiety disorders are associated with autoimmune thyroid disease. (Source)
Thyroid supplements are available if you are determined to have an imbalance or disorder. Make sure you do a proper medical evaluation prior to taking thyroid supplements. Taking supplements when you do not need them may cause an imbalance. Consult with a medical professional prior to taking any thyroid support supplement.
Vitamin Deficiencies & Mineral Deficiency #
Any vitamin deficiency may contribute to increased or enhanced anxiety. The 5 fundamental steps listed above should help you meet or exceed at least the minimum vitamin intake requirements for you assuming you are healthy and your body functions the way it should. If you have never had your levels checked it is advised to get a blood test for this as well.
