Natural Ways to Manage Anxiety

My favorite topic to write or talk about is extending life and those ways which work best to reach that goal. As a new subscriber to Life Extension magazine, I became engrossed in an article regarding natural ways to manage anxiety. As an anxiety sufferer myself I'm always interested in what ways I can implement to treat the anxiety that aren't pharmaceutical in nature. The March 2011 issue of Life Extension had just the article for me. Here are some of the issues that were the focus.

SSRI's

In the Life Extension article, a great explanation of why SSRI's work was made. The reality of them is they usually lose their effectiveness over the long term. The reason explained was that they prevent the recycling of a chemical called serotonin that exists between the cells of nerves. As a result, the effect of the natural serotonin that we have normally is short lived. We need this substance to keep us calm as we ride the waves of stress encountered all day everyday.

Natural Serotonin Boosters

Those with anxiety may also find that they have low moods as well, and might find that they benefit from a combination of a few nutrients like L-tryptophan an amino acid, or portion of protein. Amino acids make up a complete protein when all 22 amino acids accompany each other. This nutrient in particular zeros in on better serotonin levels and I found that a lot of my clientel in the health food business had great results when using it to calm down as well as to help with insomnia issues.

Balancing Dopamine Levels

Dopamine levels are generally low in those with anxiety. Especially in those that are experiencing symptoms of fatigue, apathy, low libido, and just a general feeling of dullness. Some of the nutrients to assist with these particular symptoms and boost natural dopamine levels include B-complex vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and the amino acid L-theanine.

5-HTP

This supplement is used primarily for sleep, however, it can be used to help anxiety especially because it doesn't create a sedative effect. According to this article, 5-HTP can be used for anxiety as well as panic issues, and a general improved mood. It should be taken early in the day and not taken at all if you're already on SSRI's without first consulting your physician.

Some of these nutritional alternatives can be enough to improve your anxiety levels and the need for other medications won't be necessary, or at least maybe needed less often.