A tremor is a rhythmic, involuntary shaking or movement. An essential tremor is a common type of tremor whose cause is unknown. Tremors might also be symptomatic of Parkinson's disease, thyroid disease, multiple sclerosis or stroke. However, tremors are not necessarily indicative of an adverse health condition. They can result from anger, fear, fatigue or excitement. Some nutritional modifications can help quell tremors, but tremors that are persistent or severe should be checked by your physician.
Acetyl L-Carnitine
Acetyl L-carnitine is an energy-generating nutrient that is naturally present in plants and animals, especially meats, dairy products and legumes. It is also widely available as a dietary supplement. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, acetyl L-carnitine might help reduce the tremors that can result from an overactive thyroid. A powerful antioxidant, acetyl L-carnitine might also help patients with Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders. Consult a qualified health care practitioner before using acetyl L-carnitine for tremors or any other condition.
Meat Consumption
Harmane, a neurotoxin that causes tremors, is present in meat. For reasons that are not well understood, harmane levels in patients with essential tremors tend to be elevated. An intriguing article published in the May 2008 edition of "Neuroepidemiology" explored the relationship between meat consumption and essential tremors. The authors found that meat consumption was significantly greater in volunteers with essential tremors compared with a control group that had no tremors. However, more studies are necessary before a reduction in meat consumption can be widely recommended for patients with tremors.
Vitamins
Vitamin E and vitamin C with added bioflavonoids might help slow the progression of symptoms in the early stages of Parkinson's disease, according to physician Linda White's book, "The Herbal Drugstore." Both vitamins are potent antioxidants that can help protect cells from the oxidative stress caused by environmental contaminants and normal metabolic processes alike. Oxidative stress has been implicated in many degenerative diseases, including Parkinson's. White recommends 800 mg of vitamin E and 1,000 to 3,000 mg of vitamin C with bioflavonoids per day. Add vitamins to your daily regimen only under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Foods to Avoid
Caffeine is a nervous system stimulant. Its consumption can aggravate tremors in people prone to them. Caffeine can even cause tremors if consumed in high amounts. Not just a component of coffee, caffeine is also present in tea, chocolate, soda, energy drinks and over-the-counter medications. If you suffer from tremors, try reducing your caffeine consumption to see if your symptoms lessen.
References
- "Neuroepidemiology"; "Dietary Epidemiology of Essential Tremor: Meat Consumption and Meat Cooking Practices"; E.D. Louis et al.; May 2008
- "The Herbal Drugstore"; Dr. Linda White et al.; 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Carnitine (L-carnitine)
- MedlinePlus: Tremors
