Vitamins and Stress Management

Stress is the main cause of poor health in our society today. The day-to-day miseries of allergies, anxiety, depression, digestive disorders, fatigue, headaches, impotence, insomnia and even more serious diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and thyroid dysfunction can all be attributed to stress. Stress management is important to good health. The method of stress management is to remain at a level of stress, or stimulation that is healthy and enjoyable. Balanced nutrition is essential to achieving and maintaining overall good health, but it can also affect ones ability to cope with stress. Studies have shown that during times of stress the body depletes its stores of nutrients, especially vitamins A, B and C. A deficiency of magnesium, which helps muscles to relax, has been linked to those who tend to be highly stressed, or type “A” personalities.

For about the last 30 years researchers have been exploring the significance of so called Stress vitamins. Vitamin and supplement manufacturers come out with these different combinations of vitamins packaged and distributed in various combinations and with varying strengths with promises of relieving stress. These formulas contain Vitamin A, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C and Vitamin E, which are known as the stress vitamins.

Vitamin A contributes to immunity. The antioxidant properties of Vitamin A are what contribute to stress management since in times of stress immunities are lowered. Foods that are high in Vitamin A include Milk, liver, butter, eggs and fruits. Vitamin B complex plays several different roles in the body and contributes to stress relief and stress management in various ways. Vitamin B acts as a coenzyme in numerous metabolic functions, Niacin, a B complex vitamin is necessary for the metabolism of Tryptophan. Tryptophan is the precursor to the neurotransmitter Serotonin that keeps the mind calm. Vitamin B12 is fundamental to nerve integrity. Thiamine, another B vitamin is also essential to the nervous system. Pantothenic Acid, another of the complex B vitamins takes part in many chemical reactions in the body through which energy is released and

Is required for the normal functioning of adrenal glands. It is in these glands the stress hormones adrenalin and cortisol is synthesized. Vitamin C plays many roles in the body and also contributes to stress management in a number of ways. Its antioxidant properties are well known. It is also necessary for the synthesis of cortisol. Vitamin C is needed in the amino acid tyrosine metabolism which is a precursor of various hormones like adrenaline, dopamine and nor adrenaline, all of which are associated with the stress response. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, berries, cabbage and green vegetables are rich in Vitamin C however the vitamin is destroyed during the cooking process. Vitamin E is believed to have anti oxidant properties as well which contribute to protection against illness, which can be either a cause of or a direct result of stress.

If you are not getting an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals from your diet, then a supplement may be necessary.

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