It is normal to have feelings of apprehension surrounding situations that are new or unfamiliar. Some people may even experience these feelings when confronting a situation that has turned out bad in the past. In addition to outer elements, certain foods can both trigger and combat anxiety.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of nervousness, fear, apprehension and worry. These feelings can occur as the result of a phobia, medication or stress. Anxiety can be mild or severe; severe anxiety is usually part of an anxiety disorder such as post-traumatic stress disorder or panic disorder. In some cases food can cause feelings of anxiety; these are mainly foods that are high in sugar or caffeine.
Foods That Cause Anxiety
Avoid caffeinated drinks or desserts that contain caffeine. Caffeine may cause you to feel jittery and nervous and it may also cause insomnia, all of which may mimic or trigger anxiety. Some people drink alcohol to calm themselves, however MayoClinic states that as the body metabolizes the alcohol it can mimic anxiety symptoms.
Calming Effect
Eat complex carbohydrates instead of simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates such as whole wheat or whole grains increase the hormone serotonin in the brain, which results in a calming effect. Eat foods that contain the chemical tryptophan. Trytophan helps to stabilize moods and also creates a relaxing effect. Foods that contain tryptophan are milk, bananas, oats, poultry, nuts and sesame seeds.
Food Allergies and Anxiety Symptoms
Certain people who have food allergies or sensitivities may suffer with nothing more than a tingling in the mouth or gastro upsets. However, others may have severe adverse reaction, which can lead to anxiety, hyperventilation and symptoms of anaphylactic shock. Take note of any changes in mood or feelings after eating certain foods.
Blood Sugar and Anxiety
Eating foods that are high in sugar or simple carbohydrates may result in an increase in adrenaline. An increase in adrenaline causes anxiety symptoms such as mental confusion and feeling "strung out," according to the book "Dancing with Fear." In addition to avoiding certain foods, it is good to eat small meals frequently, rather than large meals three times a day. According to Dr. Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, eating smaller meals more frequently helps to stabilize the blood sugar throughout the day.
