Feelings of anxiety are experienced by everyone at some point in their lives. These feelings include worry, fear and sometimes panic, whether about a person, situation or object. Anxiety disorder is defined by FamilyDoctor.org as "ongoing anxiety that isn't related to a particular event or situation, or is out of proportion to what [is expected]." Anxiety causes the fight or flight response by the body in preparation to deal with the impending threat. Since caffeine is a stimulant, it can make symptoms worse.
Symptoms
HelpGuide.org lists symptoms of anxiety as an increase in heart rate, heart palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, hot flashes, dizziness, trembling, nausea and even an unreal or dreamlike sensation.
Research
The Institute of Psychiatry in Brazil compared 72 patients with anxiety disorder with 26 people without the disorder in a randomized double-blind study where the participants were given either 480mg of oral caffeine or a caffeine-free substance. Of the patients with anxiety, 31 experienced panic attacks after receiving caffeine whereas the control group experienced no symptoms of panic after caffeine consumption. Neither group experienced symptoms of panic or anxiety from the caffeine-free solution.
Nutrition Labels
Caffeine can be disguised in many foods. Check labels carefully. Some foods that contain caffeine can include chocolate, sodas, tea and so-called energy drinks. HelpGuide.org notes that even cigarettes and some over-the-counter medications contain caffeine, including cold, pain and diet medications.
Dietary Intervention
Dr. Daniel K. Hall-Flavin from MayoClinic.com suggests many dietary changes including limiting or avoiding caffeine all together. Other dietary changes include limiting alcohol consumption, drinking plenty of water and eating small meals frequently to avoid highs or lows in blood sugar, which can cause symptoms of anxiety.
Considerations
Keeping a food journal and noting when symptoms of anxiety occur can help identify dietary triggers. Using relaxation techniques such as breathing, yoga and medication can help reduce symptoms of anxiety.
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