Anxiety disorder already hits close to 31.1% of U.S. adults at some time in their lives, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world of constant screen time and rapid technological advancements, anxiety has found the perfect environment to thrive. Check out this article to learn more about natural supplements that calm the nervous system.
Although experiencing anxiety disorder has become common, people seek more natural and effective ways to treat their nervous system instead of taking artificially manipulated medications. On that note, we will discuss vitamins and supplements that calm the nervous system further. But first, we need to establish the possible triggers that cause an overactive nervous system.
What causes an overactive nervous system
Various factors can contribute to an overactive nervous system, including chronic stress and anxiety, unresolved stress responses from the past, and psycho-spiritual, social, lifestyle, behavioral, biochemical, and genetic factors.
For example, research has shown that individuals with a family history of anxiety disorder have a higher chance of developing the condition. Additionally, certain personality types and other mental health disorders may increase the risk of anxiety disorders.
Understanding the possible triggers of an overactive nervous system can help identify effective treatment options. The sympathic nervous system is the one responsible for this “fight-or-flight” response.
The following topics will explore vitamins and supplements that calm the sympathetic nervous system and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Supplements that calm the nervous system
Research indicates that specific nutraceuticals, such as omega-3, ashwagandha, and lemon balm, may help treat anxiety disorders. However, while some dietary supplements could assist in managing and preventing anxiety symptoms, other substances, such as caffeine, could potentially exacerbate the condition.
According to the study “Influence of Selected Dietary Components on the Functioning of the Human Nervous System,” certain nutrients have the potential to protect and support the nervous system, including amino acids like tryptophan, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and taurine, as well as glucose and various vitamins and minerals such as vitamins C, E, D, and beta-carotene, B-group vitamins like vitamin B12, B6, and B1, and minerals like zinc, magnesium and others.
Magnesium, vitamin B, and Passionflower are one of the most mentioned when it comes to calm nervous system supplements that can treat anxiety disorders.
Magnesium and L-theanine
Research has demonstrated that Magnesium, a crucial mineral in serotonin synthesis, can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Magnesium is a vital mineral in the body, acting as a controller of essential neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which governs mood, sleep, appetite, and behavior.
L-Theanine is an amino acid that has calming effects on the body. Theanine’s mechanism of action in the body is through stimulating levels of dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, three neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in regulating sleep.
On that note, Magnesium and L-theanine together provide several health benefits and are frequently consumed in combination to enhance cognitive performance, induce better sleep, and alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha root offers various health benefits due to its antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, calming, anxiolytic, and other agents, including stress reduction, improvement in memory, alleviation of depression, and anxiety reduction.
It reduces the symptoms of stress and the associated effects, such as fatigue and cognitive impairment. Studies show improved cognitive tests in people with bipolar or anxiety disorders. While the antidepressant effects are minor, its anxiety-reducing properties lead to a reduction in depressive effects.
Passionflower
Passionflower, also known as Passiflora incarnata, is a popular supplement that reduces stress and improves sleep quality.
Studies indicate that Passionflower can relieve anxiety, induce sleep, and enhance sleep quality through multifaceted mechanisms. These mechanisms include stress relief, increased activity of the neurotransmitter GABA to promote relaxation, reduced activity of the enzyme PDE-4 to increase the activity of sleep-related neurotransmitters, and increased activity of the neurotransmitter 5-HTP to increase melatonin production.
Therefore, Passionflower is a practical choice for individuals experiencing insomnia, anxiety, and stress.
Vitamins to calm the nervous system
Vitamin B
Vitamin B, a group of 8 water-soluble vitamins, is essential for maintaining a healthy brain and central nervous system. They are often known as “anti-stress vitamins” because they help balance mood and calm the nervous system. One such vitamin is vitamin B6, crucial in synthesizing stress hormones like epinephrine and norepinephrine. B complex vitamins offer a comprehensive blend of B vitamins for well-rounded stress relief.
A study also found a correlation between depression and anxiety and low vitamin B12 in patients with depression and anxiety and healthy controls.
Therefore, incorporating vitamin B supplements into one’s diet may help reduce anxiety disorders by balancing mood, calming the nervous system, and supporting the synthesis of stress hormones.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.