Best supplements to help with anxiety

By: Shannon Keane, NP-C

At Bloom, we are interested in natural supplements that may help for anxiety. There are certain supplements that have some scientific evidence supporting their use! If you are looking for how to reduce anxiety, here are some of our favorites to consider. As always, if you are seeking help to calm anxiety attacks, and are interested in natural supplements, be sure to check-in with your provider at Bloom Mental Health to see if these supplements are safe and appropriate to take!
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1) Magnesium
 Magnesium is an essential mineral commonly found in dark green vegetables, nuts, seeds, fiber-rich whole grains and chocolate. It is well known that American’s dietary intake of Magnesium is inadequate. Magnesium has an important role in mental and brain health. Several studies have demonstrated Magnesium’s effectiveness on reducing anxiety.
 
2) Phosphatidylserine
 Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that is critical for brain health. This fatty substance decreases cortisol in individuals that produce excess amounts of stress hormones. People with higher levels of circulating stress hormones tend to experience higher levels of anxiety.
 
3) Valerian Root
 Valerian is a plant that can be found in Europe and Asia. This flowering plant increases the activity of GABA and can reduce anxiety levels. It has originally been researched to help with insomnia, but it may also help people feel calmer.
 
4) Rhodiola
 This herb can be found in Asia and has been used for centuries to help people lower stress levels.
It lowers anxiety and improves depressive symptoms by regulating neurotransmitter activity, and managing inflammation. Increased inflammatory markers have been measured in people suffering from depression and anxiety disorders.
 
5) Ashwagandha
 This adaptogen can promote homeostasis within the body and reduce anxiety. One study performed on mice revealed that this herb had a significant effect on lowering stress and anxiety levels.
 
 
***Before starting any supplements, check in with your provider at Bloom Mental Health to see if these supplements are safe and appropriate to take***

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