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Smoking no more is the only silent killer. Anxiety and stress have become one of the most widespread challenges affecting people of all ages across the globe. According to NIH, 19.1 percent of US adults suffer from anxiety and among those, 33.7 percent experience moderate impairment, while 22.8 percent suffer a debilitating degree of anxiety.
To get rid of anxiety and stress, people usually get into consuming alcohol, illicit substances or pharmaceuticals but they come with a long-lasting side effect and short-lived relief. Given the severe repercussions that these options bring along with them, the need for natural solutions has led many to explore the benefits of supplements in managing these conditions. This article delves into the causes of anxiety and stress, explores the potential of supplements in providing relief, and highlights natural products such as the ones brought to the people by Sri Sri Tattva.
But what Is Anxiety and Stress?
You have to meet targets or you are dealing with pressure at work, fear of job loss dangling over your head, or you have health worries. You are sitting on the office chair, constantly fidgeting and your body constantly tensing up; over time they have led to migraines, shallow breathing uncontrolled worrying and anxieties; and your endocrine system is constantly pumping stress hormones into the system. This increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and body flushed with cortisol and adrenaline-as stress response were reserved for a ‘flight or fight’ response when you encounter an occasional real-life threat, but here we are with an overused stress response, leading to the building up of chronic stress. Stress is the body's reaction to a challenge or demand, whether real or perceived. Anxiety, on the other hand, is a natural stress response and expresses itself as restlessness and worry, but when it becomes excessive, it can negatively impact mental and physical well-being.
Causes of Anxiety and Stress
Various factors contribute to the development of anxiety and stress. These may include work pressure, financial challenges, job losses, personal losses, health concerns, or personal relationships. Identifying these triggers is essential for effective management of the mental health condition.
Can Supplements Help For Anxiety and Stress Relief?
Supplements have gained popularity as potential aids in managing anxiety and stress. While they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, people have reportedly found relief through the incorporation of natural supplements into their dietary routines, their belief boosted by the fact that these supplements are plant-based, healthy, sustainably sourced and based on time-tested disciplines of wellness dating back thousands of years.
Top Best Supplements That May Help Ease Anxiety
Navigating the realm of supplements for anxiety relief can be overwhelming, but understanding which are the ones most reliable and why is a vital step towards holistic well-being.
Often found sitting in neat bottles in the form of supplements, capsules or powder on shelves of holistic medicine and wellness stores, Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng is a herb in use for more than 3000 years in Ayurveda, one of the oldest wellness sciences, for healing that heals, rejuvenates, helps you sleep and replenishes the body. It finds a mention at the top of the list of herbs as widely used around the world particularly for stress relief and as an adaptogen. Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to promote overall well-being. Research suggests that it may help lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and promote a sense of calm. It balances vata and kapha dosha. It is also known to help balance sugar levels; support muscle strength; fight depression and is known to be good for heart health.
2. Magnesium Supplement
Magnesium plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including the regulation of neurotransmitters that influence mood. In addition to its role in mood regulation, magnesium is involved in muscle function and energy production. A magnesium deficiency may contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress, making supplementation a potential solution.
3. Vitamin D Supplement
Vitamin D, often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Adequate levels of Vitamin D have been associated with a lower risk of depression and anxiety. Consider consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.
4. Vitamin B6 Supplement
Vitamin B6 is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters that impact mood and stress levels. Including B6-rich foods or supplements in your diet may support a balanced emotional state.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish and flaxseed, have been studied for their positive effects on mental health. Incorporating Omega-3 supplements may help reduce inflammation and support brain health, potentially easing symptoms of anxiety and stress.
Brahmi, Bacopa monnieri, has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance cognitive function and reduce stress. Research suggests that it may have adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stressors more effectively. Sri Sri Tattva USA offers an organic Brahmi supplement that helps aid in stress reduction and cognitive support and is one of the popular buys on the platform.
Consuming supplements effectively
It is crucial to maximize the benefits of supplements and ensure your well-being. While consulting an Ayurveda practitioner, following recommended dosages, being consistent and taking the supplements on time are important, here are some more pointers on how to integrate supplements into your routine:
1. Pair with Food:
Ingesting supplements with food can enhance absorption and minimize the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort. Some fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin D, are better absorbed when taken with a meal that includes some healthy fats.
2. Consider Interactions:
Be mindful of potential interactions between supplements and medications you may be taking. If you are on medication or have underlying health conditions, consult with your healthcare provider/Ayurveda practitioner to avoid any contraindications.
3. Stay Hydrated:
Water is essential for the proper digestion and absorption of supplements. Ensure you are adequately hydrated, as it can impact how your body processes and utilizes the nutrients from the supplements.
4. Monitor Your Body's Response:
Pay attention to how your body responds to the supplements. If you experience any adverse effects or unexpected symptoms, consult your healthcare professional promptly. They can help determine whether adjustments to your supplement routine are necessary.
5. Integrate with a Balanced Diet:
Supplements are not a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet. Use them to complement your nutritional intake, not replace whole foods. Aim to obtain nutrients from a diverse range of foods to support overall well-being.
6. Rotate Supplements as Needed:
Depending on your health goals, you may not need to take the same supplements indefinitely. Periodically reassess your supplement regimen and adjust based on changes in your lifestyle, health status, or the guidance of your healthcare provider.
The Importance of a Personalized Approach
While supplements can be beneficial, it's crucial to recognize that everyone's body responds differently. A personalized approach based on your unique prakruti or physiological and mental constitution, as advocated in Ayurveda, to problems of anxiety and stress management, considering factors such as lifestyle, diet, and individual health conditions, is strongly advised.
Incorporating Holistic Practices
While supplements can provide targeted support, adopting holistic practices can enhance overall well-being. Learning and practicing integrative Yoga, breathing practices like pranayamas and Sudarshan Kriya, and meditation have been shown to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. Integrating these practices into your daily routine alongside natural supplements may contribute to a more balanced and resilient state of mental health.
Making Informed Choices
Navigating the world of supplements requires careful consideration. When choosing supplements for anxiety relief, it's essential to consider the quality of the products. Look for reputable brands, like Sri Sri Tattva USA, that prioritize the purity and potency of their ingredients.
Additionally, pay attention to dosage recommendations and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that the chosen supplements align with your individual health needs.
Consult an Ayurvedic Practitioner Today
Before making significant changes to your supplement routine, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. An Ayurvedic doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique constitution and health profile. They can guide you in selecting the most suitable supplements, as well as offer advice on lifestyle modifications and holistic practices that align with the principles of Ayurveda.
In conclusion, the journey to managing anxiety and stress involves a multi-faceted approach. Natural supplements, such as Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Shankhpushpi, Arjuna, and a host of other unique herbal supplements brought to you by Sri Sri Tattva, can be a valuable addition in this journey, but they are most effective when combined with lifestyle modifications and professional guidance. By understanding the causes of anxiety, exploring supplements, and embracing holistic practices, individuals can work towards a more balanced and resilient state of well-being.