Anxiety is a perfectly normal response to stressors, like being caught in a dangerous situation, taking a test, or having to make an important decision. Still, when anxiety becomes a constant response or a response to inappropriate conditions, it becomes problematic. Anxiety affects many people throughout their lives. For some, it is merely situational, but for others, anxiety is constant and can lead to disorders. These include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
Some causes of anxiety include: -stress -trauma -thyroid disorders -dysfunctional serotonin -excessive alcohol consumption -caffeine and sugar intake -hormonal imbalance
Physical and psychological symptoms of anxiety include: -muscle tension -chest tightness -heart palpitations -high blood pressure -insomnia -digestive problems -panic attacks -irritability -difficulty concentrating -restlessness -sweating -anxiousness -inability to socialize
Psychotropic drugs and cognitive behavioral therapy are the conventional methods for anxiety treatment. With an estimated one-third of the population suffering from anxiety, it is no doubt that the number of medications is equally high.
However, there are many natural remedies for anxiety out there that have been proven effective without adverse side effects. These include several changes to diet and lifestyle.
Here are some natural, proactive lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety:
Avoid Sugary and Processed Foods Consuming foods with a high glycemic index, like processed and fast foods, can contribute to anxiety and depression. Additionally, sugar and refined carbohydrates can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate wildly, increasing stress, nervousness, and fatigue. Alcohol and Caffeine Alcohol and caffeine can both enhance anxiety symptoms by causing tension, moodiness, and jitters. Reduce anxiety by avoiding alcohol altogether or by limiting your intake to 1–3 drinks per week, with no more than two at a time. Limit coffee or black tea to no more than one cup per day. Ashwagandha Ashwagandha, a powerful herb, is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety, as it helps to stabilize the body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha improves focus, reduces fatigue, and helps to fight anxiety without the attending side effects of anti-anxiety medications. Kava Root Kava root is used to treat anxiety by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain, which induces euphoria and a sense of well-being. It is an excellent alternative to anti-anxiety medications because it is non-addictive and non-hypnotic but still increases positive mood and relaxation. Kava should be taken under the guidance of a health care provider, as it has been known to interact with certain medications. Magnesium Because magnesium is a common deficiency in adults, you should consider supplementing as it is excellent for relaxing muscles and the nervous system. Lavender Oil Lavender is a natural sedative that helps reduce anxiety by allowing the body to relax. Physical Activity Physical activity helps to reduce stress, improve sleep, reduce inflammation, increase energy, and boost confidence. It takes around half an hour of sustained exercise to see the effects on anxiety levels.
Sources: https://draxe.com/natural-remedies-anxiety/ http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20669377,00.html#give-yourself-credit-1 https://gethealthyu.com/natural-ways-to-reduce-anxiety/
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