The correlation between vitamins and stress is hotly debated, according to Stressfocus.com. Vitamins do assist enzymatic and metabolic processes in the human body. The controversy, however, is whether they actually combat stress. According to Byestress.com, no conclusive evidence exists one way or the other, though taking stress vitamins in moderation and when you're not on certain other medications cannot do any harm. If you take prescription drugs, check with your doctor first before adding any vitamins to your regimen. Byestress.com also points out that vitamins are not a solution to the stresses of life, but only a potential tool toward easing them.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an antioxidant found in milk, eggs, butter, eggs and fruit, according to both Stressfocus.com and the website Stressreductionbasics.com. MayoClinic.com says that antioxidants help prevent damage to human cells caused by oxidative stress. They also neutralize free radicals, atoms that are created when oxygen interacts with molecules and can affect cell membranes. Antioxidants don't eliminate stress, but they can work against the body's response to it.
The B Vitamins
B vitamins considered to be stress-busters include niacin, B12 and pantothenic acid. Claims that this group of vitamins can help stress have more validity because they are known to affect the adrenal glands, according to Stressfocus.com. The adrenal glands produce adrenalin and cortisol, which are stress hormones, and B vitamins regulate both.Niacin assists in the production of serotonin, which has a calming effect on the brain. Foods that contain these vitamins include meat, poultry and fish, as well as peas, beans and some cereals.
Vitamin C
According to Stressfocus.com, Vitamin C aids in the synthesis of cortisol, is also an antioxidant. It is found in tomatoes, green vegetables, berries, cabbage and citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruit, but cooking destroys it. Byestress.com says that it also helps with the metabolism of dopamine, a chemical that affects brain function.
Vitamin E
This is the least researched vitamin in connection with stress, according to Stressfocus.com. It may act as an antioxidant and may possess some properties that can ease stress. Certain green vegetables, such as cabbage, as well as nuts and oils are all good sources of vitamin E.
