I'm new here. I am so excited to finally find an online forum; I've been feeling like I'll go crazy with my anxiety hitting an all-time high these days.
I've had anxiety and OCD since I was a teenager (I'm in my early 30s now). I've never taken meds and have always just soldiered on. Sometimes it is excruciating but other times it is manageable. A couple of months ago something really traumatic happened to me and that's increased my anxiety a lot. I have a LOT of intrusive thoughts too and sometimes it just gets too much. I feel resistant to trying meds but am open to taking supplements along with therapy. Ideally, I'd like to get to a state of 'doing okay' using supplements along with therapy and breathwork/meditation without having to rely on long-term medication.
I was wondering what everyone's experience has been with supplements? Which ones do you take? Would you recommend any brands? What dosage?
Thanks so much.
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Anxious_gal
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I started using a multivitamin at the suggestion of my doctor. I was really surprised by the noticeable difference in energy it gave me on my hikes. With that little bit of extra energy on the hikes, the more anxious energy I was able to relieve. I use to drink coffee before my workouts, but caffeine has an adverse effect on me and makes me shaky. My daughter takes just vitamin D, the lowest recommended does 1000 IUs or less. That helps her keep her energy up. I don't use meds anymore, but I have needed it in the past. I've been able to manage my anxieties and depression without them for a few years now, so I mostly try to keep up with the hiking/walking and eating healthy (most of the times).
That makes a lot of sense. I'll look into multivitamins. Do you recommend any brand? There are just so many companies out there that sell this stuff. I agree about caffeine making you more anxious and jittery. These days I just drink a cup of tea in the morning though perhaps I'll eventually taper that down too. Thank you, LadyZen !
I know what you mean. I was so overwhelmed by the vitamin shelves so I asked my doctor. She recommended Centrum, but when I saw the prices, I decided to just go with the generic Equate brand. But I checked the Equate and Centrum brand to make sure they had about the same vitamins. If you go for generic store brand like Walgreens, CVS, etc, just be careful to make sure they don't use fillers that are known allergens if you're highly allergic to things. The labels should clearly say if they use those kinds of filler ingredients.
That's a great suggestion to ensure that the vitamins are the same and the product doesn't contain any allergens. I'll check out both those brands. Thanks again, LadyZen !
It sounds like you and I are pretty similar. I am dealing with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and just using meditation and therapy. I am also interested in supplements but am kind of worried they could do more harm than good. Maybe someone can comment on any of the supplements in this list and let us know if they found any benefit from them...
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Why They Might Work: Omega-3s are believed to play a role in brain health and could help regulate neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are linked to mood.
Studies: A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry suggested that omega-3 supplements could reduce anxiety symptoms.
Magnesium
Why It Might Work: Magnesium is involved in brain function and mood regulation. Low levels of magnesium are linked to increased anxiety.
Studies: A review in Nutrients found that magnesium supplementation can have a beneficial effect on anxiety.
Vitamin D
Why It Might Work: Vitamin D receptors are found in many parts of the brain, and this vitamin plays a crucial role in mood regulation and brain health.
Studies: Research indicates a correlation between low levels of vitamin D and increased levels of anxiety.
Probiotics
Why They Might Work: The gut-brain axis suggests that a healthy gut can influence brain health and mood, possibly reducing anxiety.
Studies: A study in the journal Gastroenterology found that probiotics could help in reducing anxiety symptoms.
Ashwagandha
Why It Might Work: This herb is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body resist stressors.
Studies: A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that ashwagandha effectively reduced stress and anxiety.
L-Theanine
Why It Might Work: Found primarily in tea, L-theanine is known to promote relaxation without drowsiness.
Studies: Studies suggest that L-theanine can help in reducing stress and anxiety in people exposed to stressful situations.
Chamomile
Why It Might Work: Often used in herbal teas, chamomile is known for its calming effects.
Studies: Research has shown that chamomile may help in reducing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
Valerian Root
Why It Might Work: Valerian root is commonly used for its sedative and anxiety-reducing effects.
Studies: Some studies indicate that valerian root may help in reducing anxiety, though more research is needed.
B Vitamins
Why They Might Work: B vitamins, especially B12 and B6, are important for nerve function and mood regulation.
Studies: Deficiencies in B vitamins have been linked to increased anxiety.
GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)
Why It Might Work: GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps calm the brain. Supplements might help in reducing anxiety.
Studies: While the evidence is mixed, some studies suggest GABA supplements may reduce anxiety symptoms.
Thank you so much for the detailed response, davidthecoder ! This is gold. I'll spend some time today looking up each of these. Really appreciate you taking the time to write this!
I forgot to mention, I also drink something called Red Ginseng Drink on occasion. They sell it in the Korean stores. I had a horrible eye twitch for a year and drinking this finally relieved it. My brother says it's a good source of Magnesium. kgcus.com/products/hong-sam...
Thank you for sharing. I'm taking melatonin right now (per prescription) for sleep but that's a hit or miss. I'd like to explore CBD and see if that works better for me. I'll discuss it with the doc.
Hi Anx sounds like your trying different things out.Get plenty of oxygen loadsa walks,maybe a pet.Try meditating to start your day off.If your OK with herbal meds try CBD,L Theanine or Valerian all natural chillers which will give you a break and are non addictive.Goodlucklet's know how you get on lovely.
I get it. I've been having sever issues myself. One thing I use it Olly Stress gummies. Usually I take two when I feel I'm spinning out of control. I get them from Walmart.
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xx
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