supplements for stress

A recent article in the April 2010 issue of Energy Times gives ideas on supplements to use for stress. The article by Lisa James in part states:

"The signs of chronic stress, including fatigue, disordered eating and low-level depression are the most common complaints heard by alternative health practitioners. Fortunately, natural medicine offers a number of gentle remedies that provide nourishing support for people under duress.

B-Complex vitamins are among the first nutrients to be depleted in times of stress, especially when someone reacts to pressure by eating nutritionally deficient processed foods. (My note.. Vitamin B 12 is necessary for digestion and is often overlooked) Recent research indicates that vitamin C is a key anti-stress nutrient; this crucial antioxidant helps regulate the release of cortisol, a hormone produced in times of stress. The stress response can be intensified by a lack of magnesium, another nutrient often deficient in people under chronic stress.

One of the most distressing effects of stress is the inability to either fall or stay asleep. and while good sleep habits---butting out the caffeine, getting to bed the same time every night-- are important,supplemental help is available.
Melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep/wake cycle, can promote drowsiness and initiate sleep. Lactium, a milk-based protein, promotes healthy sleep by taking the temsion our of the stress response. And 5-HTP, an amino acid often used as an antidepressant, may be able to help reduce early-morning wakefulness.

Herbs also figure prominently in the fight against stress. Some, such as chamomile, valerian and passionflower, promote relaxation. Others act as adaptogens, substances that help bring the body back into balance by increasing resistance to stress, anxiety and fatigue. Among other actions, adaptogens help increase stamina, boost immune function, sharpen concentration and focus, and promote better mood and an overall sense of well-being. Herbs that fall into the adaptogen category include Korean or red ginseng, China's famous rejuvenating tonic; American ginseng, considered more suitable for younger people than its better known cousin;rhodiola, a Siberian herb with anti-aging properties; and ashwaganda, long used in India for its tonic effects."

Stress surely is an interesting malady. Often we don't think we are "stressing" and yet our sleep may be sketchy, digestion upset, and I find I will start with the strange dreams. Besides considering the things listed above by Lisa James, I have found some of the following tools helpful. According to my husband, Jeff, "stress is the fear of unmet expectations". So don't worry about things.... sounds too easy. It does take work and faith. I have found such things as Emotional Freedom Technique helpful in "letting go" of things I cannot control. Check this technique out on their website, www.emofree.com. This is a great tool. Such things as exercise, positive affirmations, a good walk, yoga and qui gong (spelling?) are helpful. Ultimately, faith and reliance on the Lord will be our biggest strength in times of stress.

A doctor I once worked for would often ask " what is the worst that can happen?" I would go through all types of possible scenarios and then realize that even if the worst thing I could think of did occur, I would still be okay. One way or another. It is a matter of faith and eternal perspective.