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Foods for Anxiety Disorder

Trial and error with different foods for people with Anxiety Disorder have shown that there are definitely trigger foods that can cause or increase the level of anxiety. Foods containing caffeine, nicotine, stimulants or preservatives can all have an adverse affect on one who suffers from anxiety disorder. On the other hand, there are a variety of foods that have been shown to reduce the level of anxiety or prevent attacks altogether.

  1. Serotonin

    • Serotonin is the body's primary chemical regulator for mood, and serotonin release can be stimulated by the consumption of good fats such as nuts, olive oil and fish. Once consumed, the body will release more serotonin and this will help alleviate your mood.

    Vitamin D

    • While naturally occurring in oily fish and added to milk, vitamin D is no doubt an important vitamin in the prevention of anxiety attacks or, at the very least, the lessening of their intensity. However, ingested vitamin D (or even taken in supplement form) is not going to raise the amount of the vitamin in your body to a useful level. For that you still need 15 minutes of exposure to the sun, several times per week.

    Folic Acid

    • Considered brain food, folic acid is essential for the brain to work properly. Research has shown that a deficiency of folic acid can cause anxiety, fatigue and depression; therefore, it's essential to consume sufficient folic acid. It can be found naturally in foods like spinach, kale, whole-grain breads, dried beans and fruits.

    B Vitamins

    • The vitamins B-1, B-3, B-6 and B-12 are all essential to those who suffer from anxiety. The brain and body need regular sources of sufficient amounts of these vitamins to ensure nervous system regularity, as well as consistent hormone regulation, so that the "highs and lows" associated with anxiety disorder are lessened. These vitamins can be found in dried beans, whole grains, fish, pork, eggs and dairy products.

    Warning

    • Consult with your health care practitioner prior to commencing any new diet. Eating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains should provide your body with a well balanced combination of all the nutrients it requires. Should you decide to add supplements to your diet, check with your doctor first, as consuming too much of any given supplement can be as detrimental as not getting enough.

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