Nutrients and Supplements that helps with Anxiety, Depression and other Mental issues

Instead of taking anti-anxiety and anti-depression drugs, try to optimize the vitamin, mineral and amino acid profile in the body. Pharmaceutical drugs have side-effects even though they give temporary relief from the symptoms. In majority of people, mental issues are a result of chemical imbalances in brain. These chemical imbalances occur due to domination or suppression of certain neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are generated by using specific vitamins, minerals and amino acids in our body.

Communication within the brain & between the brain & the rest of the nervous system occurs through chemical “languages” called neurotransmitters. The central nervous system is almost completely regulated by amino acids & peptides. Below are 3 of the main neurotransmitters that have a huge impact on our mood, positivity, relaxations, restfulness, happiness, excitement in life.

  • Serotonin, the happy hormone. Promotes healthy sleep, regulates appetite, improves mood, supports healthy digestive function and so much more
  • Dopamine, your reward hormone. Serves as a messenger of the sympathetic nervous system providing satisfaction, pleasure and excitement in life
  • GABA, the calming neurotransmitter. Induces relaxation and reduces anxiety.

Below are some of the main nutrients when available in optimum levels in our body, can positively impact our mental health and performance. We get all these nutrients from the food we eat. When we cannot get all these nutrients from the food we eat due to some reasons, then we may compensate by taking supplementation. For this, one needs to have a comprehensive blood test done which includes testing for below vitamin and mineral profile. Imbalances could be addressed by nutrition from natural foods or using supplementation in right dosage prescribed by a qualified professional.

Focus Vitamins

  • Vitamin D3
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin B9
  • Inositol (Vitamin B8)
  • Choline

*Generally taking a good quality Multivitamin covering full spectrum of vitamins is highly recommended.

Focus Minerals

  • Magnesium
  • Zinc
  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Potassium

Amino Acids.

  • Glycine
  • Lysine
  • Tryptophan (5-hydroxytryptophan)
  • Phenylalanine
  • N Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)

Fats

  • Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Herbs

  • Ashwagandha (KSM-66)
  • Ginseng
  • Certain Mushroom Extracts

~Praveen Jada

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