Anxiety

Summary: Anxiety can be caused by our reactions to outside forces as well as biochemical reactions within our body. Understanding where your anxiety is coming from is the first step in healing.

Anxiety

It is estimated that at least one fifth of the U.S. population experiences an anxiety disorder. With the pandemic, that figure is much likely higher. Feeling anxious every so often is normal. Many factors can provoke anxiety including relationship difficulties, financial troubles, past trauma, or a public speech performance. Ongoing anxiety, however, can have negative impacts on one’s life. It is important to first rule out organic disease with your physician. Next, look for areas in your life that may be adding to your stress level. Stress impacts us biologically. Chronic stress increases adrenaline and cortisol, which blunt any insulin response to food intake, altering our metabolic health. Understanding that stress has a biological impact on us emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modalities such as meditation, deep breathing, forest bathing, and spending time with those we love. Managing our stress is of utmost importance if dealing with anxiety.

For some individuals, consuming caffeine long-term has been linked to anxiety and depression. (Lee 2018) Alcohol also has links to anxiety. Long-term use has been found to diminish serotonin and catecholamine levels. Anxious feelings can also be triggered by hypoglycemia, low progesterone, estrogen imbalance, thyroid issues, overall inflammation, food allergies or sensitivities, gut/brain axis dysfunction, as well as an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as excess glutamate or low GABA. (Lee 2018) Our genes may also play a role. One example is DAO polymorphism. Having this SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) may prevent the breakdown of histamines. Excess histamines cause excitability, allergies, and may cause anxiety, insomnia, and panic. (Lynch 2018)

Omega-3 Fatty Acids deficiency is also associated with increased anxiety and depression. (Lee 2018) B Vitamin deficiencies have been linked with mood disorders. Particularly, B6 and B12, both involved in methylation, are important for brain health. B6 is a precursor for the production of serotonin. (Lee 2018) 5-Hydroxytryptophan is an amino acid that is another precursor for the production of serotonin and may improve anxiety. (Lee 2018)

Food is nourishment and information for our body. The foods we eat can impact not only our brain chemistry but also the level of inflammation within our brain. This in turn affects our mood and emotions. Our food choices can make the difference between feeling calm and peaceful or anxious and angry.

Reference:

Lee, R. (2018) Anxiety, in Rakel’s Integrative Medicine, 4th edition, Elsevier, Philadelphia, PA 46-51

Lynch, B. (2018). Dirty Genes (1st ed. Pp.115-132) Harper One, New York, NY