Anxiety is a feeling of nervousness that can arise from phobias, depression or anxiety disorders. Most people experience anxiety when they feel they are in danger or are extremely uncomfortable. However, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 40 million American adults suffer from anxiety disorder. Frequent anxiety for no apparent reason or that is brought on by a phobia is considered an anxiety disorder. Medication can help people cope with the symptoms of anxiety. However, certain medications can invoke panic attacks or nervousness as side effects. This causes some patients to avoid them, and they resort to using vitamins and minerals as a remedy. Always consult your physician before using any alternative remedy to treat a serious health condition.
Vitamin B Supplements
There are eight B vitamins: thiamine (B-1); riboflavin (B-2); niacin (B-3); pantothenic acid (B-5); pyridoxine (B-6); folic acid (B-9); cyanocobalamin (B-12); and biotin. B vitamins are responsible for turning food into energy and maintaining healthy skin, blood and nails. Specific B vitamins also help stabilize mood. Vitamin B-1 works to improve the mood; vitamin B-5 makes anti-stress hormones; vitamin B-6 helps to make the nervous system healthy,; vitamin B-12 produces feel-good chemicals. Folic acid reduces homocysteine levels, decreasing the likelihood of depression, according to Vitamins Diary. Each of these vitamins are available separately, or you can take them altogether in a B-complex tablet.
Foods Containing Vitamin B
Foods that are high in B vitamins include enriched cereal or grains, poultry, fish, legumes and broccoli. Foods that are high in B vitamins, especially B-6, will help to stabilize the nervous system and improve your mood. According to Harvard Medical School, the recommended daily intake for vitamin B-6 is 1.3 to 1.7 mg, and 100mg is the upper limit.
Vitamin C Supplements
The antioxidant vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that enhances the immune system and supports adrenal gland functioning. The adrenal glands have several functions, one of which is to decrease stress levels. "The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook" suggests taking 1,000mg of vitamin C in a time-release capsule, twice a day.
Instructions
Take B and C vitamins with meals. According to "The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook," the enzymes and stomach acids produced when food is digested help to assimilate the vitamins. Take capsules rather than tablets, as capsules are easier on the stomach.
Considerations
If you are taking vitamins to treat your anxiety and stress and it doesn't seem to be working, consult your physician. Conditions such as heart attack, asthma and adrenal gland problems may mimic the symptoms of anxiety.
