Anxiety & panic attacks describe any deep feelings of worry or dread - usually about events that might potentially happen, no matter how remote, the anxiety can heighten the stressful thoughts linked to this. Some anxiety about stressful events is normal, however in some people anxiety interferes with their ability to function.

Physical symptoms of anxiety can include extreme fatigue, insomnia, stomach problems, sweating, a racing heart, rapid and erratic breathing, shortness of breath and irritability.

Since some individuals who think they are anxious may actually be depressed, it is always prudent that you seek medical advice from your Doctor or GP before embarking on a nutritional regime in search of a solution.

In some cases of anxiety, prescription drug treatments are used, often in conjunction with psychological councelling. Medical investigations to investigate possible underlying physical causes of symptoms may also be undertaken.

Natural therapies generally provide a useful approach to relieving mild to moderate anxiety. These could include dietary changes that address reduction of excess sugar levels, refined and processed food reduction, lowering of alcohol and caffiene intake as well as other stimulants like tobacco and recreational drugs if appropriate.

The use also of nutritional and herbal supplements may prove beneficial in the long term as well as other holistic therapies such as meditation, relaxation therapy, acupuncture and yoga.

There are certain key nutritional supplements that have been shown to be helpful in relieving anxiety. For instance, Inositol (a member of the B Vitamin family) has been used positively to help people suffering from panic attacks. Up to 4g per day was found to help in blind controlled trials. High dose Multivitamin and Mineral formulations have been sown to help lower perceived anxiety and stress simply by replacing and rebalancing in a synergistic way, the base line of nutrients needed for our nervous system to remain level and calm.

Herbs which may be useful include St John's Wort, Valerian (and until recently Kava Kava which unforunately is now no longer available for general use), Seretone 5HTP from Grifonnica extract may also be helpful in rebalancing Seretone - an essential element made from our food and involved in sleep and sleep quality). Passionflower and Hops also exhibit many calming properties.

Prolonged anxiety can have a long term effect on our health and wellness, especially on the body's immune system and adrenal fatigue is quite common as we find ourselved constantly on edge and in the classic 'fight or flight' mode.

For more information, or to find a nutritionist in your local area who may be able to help more directly, please call our Customer Support Team on +44 (0)1275 846664