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Vitamins that Help Reduce Stress

Stress is defined as a nonspecific response of the body to any demand made upon it which results in symptoms such as rise in the blood pressure, release of hormones, quickness of breathe, tightening of muscles, perspiration, and increased cardiac activity. Stress is not necessarily negative. Some stress keeps us motivated and alert, while too little stress can create problems. However, too much stress can trigger problems with mental and physical health, particularly over a prolonged period of time. So, it is very important to reduce stress.

Avoiding dependence on stimulants such as alcohol, ensuring you eat a healthy diet and learning effective techniques to deal with stress are all important in managing stress.

Vitamins for Stress

• Vitamin A helps to mop up toxins that deplete energy levels.
• Vitamin B1 improves mood and is vital for nerve function.
• Vitamin B3 regulates sleep patterns.
• Vitamin B6 is essential for optimum production of the mood-enhancing brain chemical serotonin.
• Vitamin B12 helps to produce feel-good brain chemicals.
• Pantothenic acid controls the action of the adrenal glands, which play a crucial part in the stress response.
• Choline and Inositol have a calming effect.
• Vitamin C is used up quickly during stress reactions and a deficiency can worsen anxiety and irritability.
• Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant.

Minerals for Stress

• Calcium helps you to relax.
• Chromium stabilizes blood sugar levels.
• Magnesium reduces stress.
• Selenium increases the effectiveness of vitamin E.
• Zinc increases resistance to infection.

More Nutrients to reduce Stress

• Omega-3 oils support the immune system.
• St John's Wort has a calming effect.
• Valerian has long been used to relieve stress.

Foods helpful in reducing stress

Whole grains, oats, oily fish, lentils, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds.

Foods to avoid

Fast-releasing carbohydrates found in sugar, white bread, white rice and refined cereals stimulate the release of the stress hormone cortisol. Stimulants such as coffee, alcohol and nicotine put a strain on body systems.

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