Vitamins and minerals by themselves may not directly cure anxiety, but some nutrients are noted to play a supportive role in promoting mental health and alleviating anxiety symptoms. In this episode, Jen explores which specific vitamins may aid in the reduction of anxiety and how they function to support mental wellbeing.
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SHOWNOTES
While vitamins and minerals alone may not cure anxiety, certain nutrients are believed to support mental health and help manage symptoms of anxiety. Here are some vitamins and minerals that are commonly associated with promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety:
1. Vitamin B-complex:
B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin), play essential roles in maintaining proper brain function. These vitamins are involved in the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are important for mood regulation. Foods rich in B vitamins include whole grains, leafy greens, legumes, and animal products.
2. Magnesium:
Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps regulate the nervous system and reduce stress. It acts as a natural relaxant and aids in the production of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that promotes calmness. Good sources of magnesium include nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and leafy greens.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), have been linked to promoting brain health and reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. These healthy fats are found in fatty fish (such as salmon and sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
4. Vitamin D:
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression. While sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D, food sources include fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks. In certain cases, supplementation may be recommended, especially for individuals with limited sun exposure.
RESOURCES
Dr Alice MacKinnon’s Fitness Classes https://aliceionamackinnon.com/fitness-classes/
HEALTHY LIFE HACKS
The Healthy Life Hacks I want to share with you today are:
- Look at your body holistically so you can come from a place of prevention, eat more of these foods and where necessary, take supplements.
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