Stress and phobias are both conditions related to anxiety. Occasional feelings of anxiety are a normal part of the human condition. However, when anxiety symptoms are chronic and out of proportion to the actual dangers at hand, treatment may be appropriate. Supplements can be beneficial, but untreated anxiety disorders can severely impact daily life. Consult a qualified health care provider for help with severe stress and phobias.
5-HTP
In his book "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks," psychiatrist Douglas Hunt states that he recommends 5-hydroxytryptophan for patients with generalized anxiety, panic disorders and phobias. 5-hydroxytryptophan, usually abbreviated as 5-HTP, is produced in the body from tryptophan, an amino acid obtained from food sources. 5-HTP is then converted into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate behavior and mood. 5-HTP is not present in the usual foods we eat. However, 5-HTP supplements are available. They are made from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a shrub native to Africa. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 5-HTP can boost serotonin, which may account for this supplement's ability to soothe stress and phobias. Consult a qualified health care provider before adding 5-HTP to your regimen.
Calcium
Dr. Hunt also recommends calcium for anxiety, stress and phobias. Calcium plays a key role in the neuronal activity, the transmission of electrical signals throughout the brain and body. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, most people in the United States do not consume enough dietary calcium, which is most abundantly present in dairy products. Taking a multivitamin isn't enough to provide adequate amounts, since calcium is too bulky to fit into one or two pills, but standalone calcium supplements are available. If you decide to take calcium, make sure you also get enough vitamin D. It is necessary for calcium absorption. The use of calcium and other supplements is not a substitute for treatment and advice from a health care professional.
Kava
Kava has a long history of use in the Pacific Islands, but until recently it was not used as a dietary supplement or as a remedy for psychological complaints. Instead, it was used as a relaxant and mood elevator at ceremonial occasions and community gatherings. According to an article in "Phytotherapy Research," kava may be of significant benefit in phobic, panic and obsessive-compulsive disorders. The review describes a meta-analysis of seven research studies on kava. The authors of the analysis concluded that kava was significantly more effective for anxiety relief than placebo. Kava has been associated with liver problems. Use it only under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center: Calcium
- University of Maryland Medical Center: 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
- "Phytotherapy Research"; Herbal Medicines in the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review; J. Sarris; June 2007
- "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks: The All-Natural Program That Can Help You Conquer Your Fears"; Douglas Hunt; 2005
