A person who has generalized anxiety may feel apprehensive, fearful and worried. Anxiety also manifests physically. Symptoms include rapid heart rate, sweating, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. Approximately 6.8 adults in the U.S. have generalized anxiety, the National Institute of Mental Health states. Anxiety can range from mild to severe and is treatable. There are many causes of anxiety, including stressful situations and life-changing events. However, certain foods can increase anxiety, too.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that increases blood pressure and heart rate. Caffeine can also cause restlessness, agitation, nausea, diarrhea and insomnia. Teas, coffee, soft drinks and chocolate contain caffeine. In the body, the chemical adenosine inhibits central nervous system activity. Caffeine competes with adenosine and stimulates the central nervous system. Caffeine makes some people feel pleasantly alert, but in other people, it causes anxiety and panic symptoms, especially in people predisposed to anxiety disorders. A person with anxiety usually benefits from reducing his caffeine intake.
Sugar
People prone to anxiety should avoid foods that contain refined sugar, including processed foods. After eating sugar, a person experiences a short burst of energy, but then blood sugar levels drop, which can leave a person feeling tired and sluggish. When blood sugar levels get too low, known as hypoglycemia, many people experience symptoms of anxiety. When sugar levels swing from high to low, the hormones adrenaline and cortisol are released, which can cause anxiety and panic. To treat anxiety symptoms related to blood sugar levels, a person is usually advised to eat whole foods and balance his diet with an appropriate amount of protein and carbohydrates.
Alcohol
Some people believe that drinking alcohol reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation, but consuming alcohol can actually cause anxiety. Alcohol can affect mood because it interferes with serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. Alcohol contains sugar and may cause fluctuating blood sugar levels, which can produce symptoms of confusion, dizziness, nervousness and restlessness. Alcohol can also cause dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration, including nausea, fatigue and muscle weakness can lead a person to become anxious.
Food Sensitivities
According to Dr. Daniel K. Hall-Flavin from the Mayo Clinic, some people have food sensitivities to certain foods that when eaten might make them more prone to anxiety or mood instability. Hall-Flavin says that common foods that people are sensitive to include shellfish, wheat, corn, dairy, nuts and soy.
