Stress Management

Vitamin and Supplements

The B vitamins are important for the nervous system. They have been found to stabilize the body's lactate levels, which are responsible for anxiety attacks.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is particularly important. It is a known energizer that also exerts a calming effect.

Vitamin B-1 (thiamine) helps reduce anxiety and has a calming effect on the nerves.

Niacinamide (a form of Vitamin B-3) is important in the production of certain brain chemicals. In large doses, it has a calming effect.

Include pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) if you lack the enzymes to convert vitamin B6 to its active form.

Calcium and magnesium are important to prevent nervous tension. They relax a tense and overwrought nervous system. Calcium is a natural tranquilizer. Magnesium helps relieve anxiety, tension, nervousness, muscular spasms, and ties. Take magnesium in combination with calcium. Take them before bed to improve sleep. Alcohol robs the body of magnesium, causing nervousness and irritability.

Vitamin C is necessary for proper functioning of adrenal glands and brain chemistry. In large doses, it can have a powerful tranquilizing effect and is known to decrease anxiety.  Take the variety with bioflavonoids. It is very important for dealing with stress. (Consult a physician before you start any mega vitamin therapy.)

Potassium is essential for proper functioning of the adrenal glands.

Low levels of selenium have been found in people with anxiety disorder. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects the heart.

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is an important physiological agent involved in over 40 biochemical reactions in the body. Is a natural anti-depressant and has a calming effect.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) - This amino acid reportedly helps in anxiety.

Vitamin E helps transport oxygen to brain cells and protect them from free radical damage.

Zinc has a calming effect on the central nervous system.

Recommended Daily Dosages

Vitamin B complex, 50 mg one to three times daily

P-5-P, 100 mg

Extra vitamin B-1 (thiamine) - 50 mg 3 times daily, with meals.

Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) - 50 mg 3 times daily.

Niacinamide - 100 mg 3 times daily.
Caution- Do not substitute niacin for niacinamide. Niacin can be toxic in such high doses.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids - 5,000-10,000 mg daily, in divided doses.

Vitamin E - 400 IU or as directed in the label. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form.

Calcium - 2,000 mg daily

Magnesium - 500-1,000 mg daily

Potassium - 99 mg daily

Selenium - 100-200 mcg daily
Caution: If you are pregnant, do not exceed 40 mcg daily.

Zinc - 50-80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements.

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) - 400 mg twice daily. 
Caution: Do not use if you have manic-depressive disorder or take prescription anti-depressants.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)- 750 milligrams three times a day after meals. 

See Also:

Nutrition Infocenter in Holisticonline.com

Vitamin Infocenter in Holisticonline.com

Nutrition and Diet Therapy for Managing Stress

Vitamin and Mineral Therapy for Managing Stress

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