Are you feeling stressed out? If so, you’re not alone. According to the American Psychological Association, stress is the “number one psychological problem in the United States.” While there are many ways to deal with stress, supplements can be a great way to find relief. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best supplements for stress and how they can help you feel better!
Contents
What Is Stress?
Stress is the body’s response to any demand. It is a normal part of life that can either help or hurt us depending on the situation. The physical and mental effects of stress can be short-term, like feeling anxious before an important meeting, or long-term, like chronic stress from a difficult job.
This feeling, however, considered normal, can still take a toll on our bodies if we don’t find ways to manage it. Because sometimes, no matter how much we want to, we can’t just avoid the stressful situation. That’s when it might be time to seek out some help in the form of supplements. Before, talking about supplements for stress, let’s outline some common signs to watch out for:
- Hard time sleeping or you can’t stay asleep
- Easily irritated or you have a shorter fuse than usual
- Feeling overwhelmed or like you can’t keep up
- Skipping meals or eating more junk food than normal
- Having headaches or your muscles are tense
- Can’t concentrate or you’re forgetful
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
If any of these sound familiar, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Millions of people all over the world experience stress on a daily basis. But that doesn’t mean there’s no way to find relief. Sometimes, making small changes in our diet and lifestyle can make a big difference. Other times, we might need a little help from supplements.
How Do Supplements For Stress Work?
The supplements work by targeting the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol. When these glands are targeted, it helps to reduce the amount of cortisol that is produced. This can lead to a reduction in stress levels, and ultimately help to improve your overall health.
In addition, supplements for stress can also help to improve your mood and energy levels. This is because when you’re stressed, your body is in a constant state of fight or flight. This means that your sympathetic nervous system is always activated, which can lead to feeling tired and run down.
By taking supplements for stress, you can help to balance out this response and improve your overall energy levels. So try out a few different options to see what works best for you!
What Supplements Can Calm You Down?
There are many supplements on the market that claim to help with stress. But which ones actually work? Here are some of the most popular supplements for stress, and what the science says about their effectiveness:
Chamomile
Chamomile is a common herbal remedy for anxiety and insomnia. A review of studies found that chamomile supplements may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. This works by increasing levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that has calming effects. You can use chamomile tea bags or chamomile supplements to get the benefits.
Magnesium
It is no secret that magnesium is good for your health. In fact, this mineral is involved in over 300 biochemical processes in the body! But it might come as a surprise to learn that magnesium can also help alleviate stress and anxiety. It works by helping to regulate the body’s stress response, and it has a calming effect on the nervous system. If you are feeling stressed out, consider taking a magnesium supplement.
L-theanine
This amino acid is found in green tea and has been shown to help reduce stress and promote relaxation. A small study found that L-theanine may help reduce stress during demanding tasks. This supplement for stress is actually more effective when combined with caffeine. One study has found that people who took L-theanine and caffeine had less anxiety and felt more relaxed than those who took a placebo.
Rhodiola Rosea
This herb is sometimes called golden root or arctic root and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. This is thought to help the body adapt to stress by reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. For example, one study showed that people who took Rhodiola Rosea supplements had lower levels of cortisol after a stressful event than those who didn’t take the supplements. Rhodiola Rosea is available in capsules, tablets, and tinctures.
Ashwagandha
This supplement is described as an “adaptogen,” meaning it can help your body manage stress. It’s thought to work by reducing the levels of stress hormones in your body, such as cortisol. Ashwagandha is available in powder, capsule, and liquid forms. You can take it with food or on an empty stomach. The recommended dose varies depending on the form you take, but it’s generally between 300 and 500 milligrams per day.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an important vitamin for overall health, but it can also help reduce stress levels. A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to increased levels of stress and anxiety. Getting enough vitamin D can help improve your mood and reduce stress levels. You can get vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, but you can also take supplements to ensure you’re getting enough. Talk to your doctor about the right dosage for you.
Vitamin C
It is a type of antioxidant, which means it helps protect your cells from damage. It also helps to boost your immune system. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, tomatoes, and potatoes. You can also take a supplement. Also, vitamin C offers other health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease.
GABA
GABA is defined as an amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter in the human brain. This supplement has shown to be effective in reducing stress, and anxiety, and improving mood. There are many different types of GABA supplements available on the market, so it is important to do your research to find the one that best suits your needs.
Melatonin
It is a hormone that helps to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. The body produces it naturally, but it can also be taken as a supplement. Melatonin supplements are often used to help people with jet lag or shift work sleep disorders adjust to new schedules. A small amount of research has been conducted on melatonin and stress, and the results have been mixed. The dosage may vary depending on the person and the condition being treated. It is generally considered safe, but there are some potential side effects.
Lemon balm
This type of mint is known for its calming properties. It can be taken as a tea or supplement. Lemon balm has also been shown to improve cognitive function and memory. For example, one study found that students who took lemon balm before an exam had better performance than those who did not.
Omega-3s
Omega-three fatty acids are one of the most popular supplements for stress relief. Omega-three fatty acids can be found in fish oil, and they have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. If you’re looking for a natural way to reduce your stress levels, omega-three fatty acids may be a good option for you. You can use supplements or eat foods that are rich in omega-three fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
Probiotics
Probiotics are another type of supplement that has been shown to be effective for stress relief. These are live bacteria that can be found in yogurt and other fermented foods. They have also been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety and depression. Probiotics work by helping to restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut.
This can help to reduce inflammation and improve gut health. Probiotics are also thought to boost the immune system, which can help to protect the body from stress-related illnesses.
Valerian root
It is common for people to seek out natural remedies for stress relief. Valerian root is one such remedy that has been used for centuries. This herb is thought to work by increasing levels of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate nerve activity and has a calming effect.
Lavender
Among supplements for stress, lavender is one of the most popular and well-known. It has a long history of use in folk medicine and aromatherapy, and recent research has shown that it can indeed help reduce stress levels. Lavender supplements are typically taken in capsule form, but you can also find them in tinctures, oils, and teas.
Saffron
It is an ancient spice that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is thought to work by reducing the level of the stress hormone cortisol. A small study showed that saffron may help treat mild-to-moderate depression. This spice is available in supplement form.
So these are the top 15 supplements for stress that are believed to be effective in reducing stress hormone levels and promoting relaxation. It is always best to speak with a doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take medications.
Overall, stress is a normal part of life. However, when it becomes chronic, it can take a toll on your physical and mental health. If you are looking for ways to manage stress, consider trying one of these supplements. While they may not work for everyone, they could help you find the relief you need.
What Other Things Can Help In Stress-Relief?
There are a lot of things that can help with stress relief, but it really depends on the person. Some people might get benefits from the supplements while others need some other changes to get better results. Here are a few other things that one might need to get relief from stress:
Regular Exercise
Exercise helps to improve mood and sleep, while also reducing fatigue and tension. Because when we’re stressed, our bodies are in a heightened state, exercise can help to “reset” our systems and bring us back to a more normal state. Regular exercise or just being active in general can be a great way to relieve stress.
Yoga or Meditation
When it comes to finding supplements for stress, one option is yoga or meditation. Both of these practices can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. There are many different types of yoga and meditation, so it is important to find a practice that is right for you. If you are new to yoga or meditation, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started.
Laughter
It’s a great distraction from stressors and can trigger the release of endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. In fact, in today’s time, there are plenty of options for finding laughter. For example, you can watch a funny show on Netflix, read a hilarious book, or even browse through memes on social media. Let’s put a smile on that face!
Spending Time Outdoors
Being in nature can help reduce stress hormones and ease muscle tension. Because of this, spending time outdoors can be a great way to reduce stress. If you live in an urban area, try to find a park or green space to visit on a regular basis. Even taking a short walk outdoors can help reduce stress levels.
Deep Breathing
Slowing down the breath can immediately calm the nervous system and lower stress levels. You can start by taking a few deep breaths when you feel stressed. Once you get the hang of it, you can practice deeper breathing exercises for a more long-lasting effect.
So, whenever your stress got you down, do not forget to try these two simple yet effective techniques, spending time outdoors and deep breathing exercises. Let nature and your breath work together to relax your mind and body!
How Can You Choose The Right One?
Now we have discussed several types of supplements for stress and other options for natural relief. It’s time to focus on how you can choose the right one for you. There are a few key things to keep in mind when selecting a supplement for stress relief:
- First, consider what type of stress you are experiencing. Are you dealing with acute stressors like an upcoming deadline or job interview? Or are you struggling with chronic stress that seems to be always present? The type of stress you’re experiencing will help guide your supplement selection.
- Second, think about your specific needs. Do you need something to calm your nerves or ease anxiety? Or are you looking for a way to boost your energy and focus? There are many different supplements available, so it’s important to choose one that will address your specific needs.
- Third, take into account any other health concerns you may have. If you have any medical conditions or are taking prescription medications, be sure to check with your doctor before taking any supplements. Certain supplements can interact with medications and may not be safe.
- Next, think about your budget. Supplements can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. Choose one that fits within your budget and is available from a reputable source.
- Finally, don’t forget to read the label. Be sure to check the ingredients list to make sure you’re not allergic to anything and that the supplement doesn’t contain any ingredients you want to avoid.
With these things in mind, you’re ready to start shopping for supplements. And do not forget to consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. They can offer additional guidance on choosing the right supplement for you and help you monitor your progress.
Conclusion
In conclusion supplements for stress are a great way to naturally reduce your stress levels. They are also relatively safe and have few side effects. It is also important to note that supplements are not a cure for stress, but they can help you manage your stress levels. If you are struggling with stress, it is important to talk to your doctor about your options.
For more information and guidance, please get in touch with our expert therapists at Therapy Mantra. They will be more than happy to assist you on your journey to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our services. You can also book an online therapy session or download our free Android or iOS app.
