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The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
Jeanne W. Shiffman, MD, DABFP
Treating Anxiety Patients Can Benefit From a More Natural Approach
Steinmetz Integrative & Functional Medicine Center

Treating Anxiety Patients Can Benefit From a More Natural Approach

Anxiety is a common condition where sufferers experience feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. When the anxiety attack is mild and passes quickly, it is more annoying than detrimental. But when the anxiety attack is frequent and powerful, it's time to seek treatment.

Identifying Anxiety

The symptoms of anxiety are hard to mistake. The patient's heart rate increases, creating a pounding sensation. Many patients have difficulty taking a deep breath, and some may perspire. Patients feel fearful and have a sense of panic. Anxiety attacks can manifest as a phobia, obsession, or compulsion. Some may manifest as a more serious disorder. It's important to understand that although anxiety is an emotional reaction, it has physical components. The overwhelming fear and uncertainty of anxiety can even cause actual physical changes to the nerve cells of the brain.

The physical conditions that might cause or contribute to attacks are an overproduction of thyroid hormone, a vitamin B12 deficiency or irregular heartbeat. Doctors have several options, but be aware that many doctors will prescribe medications for anxiety.

Anxiety Medications' Drawbacks

The three main types of medications used to treat anxiety have drawbacks

Antidepressants have side effects, including headache, nausea, drowsiness, decreased sex drive, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, reduced libido, and blurred vision.

Anti-anxiety medications can lead to dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and headache.

Beta blockers can cause dizziness, fatigue, and weakness.

Alternative Anxiety Treatments

There are other options to treat anxiety that address the root of the problem, in addition to the symptoms.

Psychotherapy can be as effective as drugs. This can be individual counseling, family therapy, or group therapy.

Mind-body therapies, such as prayer, mindfulness and meditation, yoga, and biofeedback have also been shown to reduce or eliminate anxiety.

Lifestyle changes are an additional option to treating the condition. Some are

Avoid caffeine

Reduce alcohol consumption

Eat foods rich in magnesium, such as sunflower seeds, dark chocolate, cashew or Brazil nuts, and bran.

Eat fermented foods and yogurt.

Eat fish.

Get more exercise

Get adequate, sound sleep.

Studies show that exercise with weight training or aerobic exercise twice a week decreased anxiety levels. Following a diet rich in optimal nutrients and maintaining a healthy digestive system can also support a calmer nervous system.

Dietary supplements and herbs can be effective in reducing anxiety. Kava-kava, inositol, L-theanine, lemon balm, valerian, and passion flower are often indicated in naturally managing anxiety. There are very important safety issues to consider, such as drug interactions and allergies-a special caution needs to be heeded with kava-kava use.

All use of supplements and herbs should be reviewed by a doctor as carefully as any prescription medication. Consulting a doctor trained in herbal and conventional medicine is highly recommended.

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