All Natural OCD Treatments

OCD, or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, is when a behavior becomes a ritual, whether pointed out by others or recognized by the individual as something that takes over and controls your actions. We've all caught ourselves doing this, such as worrying about if we've left the oven on, locked the front door or washed our hands; but if these thoughts begin to dominate our lives and lead to actions which we need to perform repetitively, this type of ritualized behavior becomes the hallmark of OCD.

Notice that the thoughts that lead to OCD behavior are always from a source of anxiety. You may worry about burning the house down if the stove is left on, a break-in if the door is unlocked or disease if you've touched something that could be contaminated. According to Steven Phillipson, PhD, these threats lead to a response, or spike, which is the perceived solution to the problem. For example, a student may constantly count the number of books in his backpack to avoid paying a fine for losing one of them or say, "I love you" three times before leaving for school in the morning to deal with separation anxiety.

 OCD is a fascinating subject and can take the form of many behaviors, from hoarding worthless objects just in case they're needed to placing items in a certain order to maintain control over their immediate environment. According to a German study published in 2010, many of these behaviors begin in childhood and adolescence and could be a reaction to trauma or just a way to cope with the world around them and their changing place in it. Recognizing the condition and seeking help from a cognitive behavioral therapist is generally the first course of action; if this fails, there are prescription drug treatments available, the most popular being Prozac. However, if you or a loved one would prefer a more natural solution, consider some herbal supplements that may help with this condition.

St. John's wort, or Hypericum perforatum, has been recognized since Hippocrates' time as a remedy for anxiety; even the National Institutes for Health note its likely effectiveness for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Enzymatic Therapy offers their tablet form of St. John's Wort Extract that has undergone clinical trials to confirm its efficacy when it comes to regulating mood and emotional health. For a vegetarian OCD treatment alternative, consider NOW's Mood Support with a full range of B vitamins, as well as valerian, noted for its calming effect on the nervous system. Herb Pharm also offers their St. John's Wort in a liquid extract that can be mixed with water and taken up to five times a day to achieve a healthy emotional balance.

Passionflower, or passiflora incarnata, is noted for its beautiful showy blooms with a cross in the middle, symbolizing the crucifixion. The flower is also the most prevalent ingredient in herbal sedatives marketed in England and is typically used in German homeopathic treatments as a tranquilizer. Gaia Herbs offers their Passionflower Liquid Phyto-Caps in a vegetarian formula. All ingredients can be traced back to where they were harvested so you're guaranteed the safest product. If you prefer a Liquid Passionflower Extract, you should check out the offering from Herb Pharm, which is hand-harvested to ensure quality control from the outset and is never fumigated or irradiated. Gaia Herbs also markets an Organic Passionflower Extract harvested from the flowering vines that can be taken up to three times daily between meals.

For more healthy OCD treatment alternatives, check out the many offerings available from CAM Formulas with free standard shipping.

5 Vitamins and Minerals Caffeine Affects

Many of us are on comprehensive, complicated vitamin and mineral regimes to maximize our health and flood our organs with beneficial nutrients. You've done your research, discovered what you should be taking, and are feeling a little better than you were before. Maybe you've still got some symptoms that just won't leave, or a fatigue that hits you like clockwork at mid-afternoon. What gives? Why aren't the supplements giving you the vibrance and energy that everyone else seems to have?
You may be sabotaging your own results. How?

Caffeine. Coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, and even medications contain caffeine. We love it, no doubt: more than 45 million pounds of the odorless powder is taken by Americans per year. It gets us going, lifts our mood, lowers blood pressure, and may even boost a workout by lending our bodies extra energy. However, numerous studies are illustrating that caffeine robs our body of the nutrients within the food and supplements we consume. Imagine taking 4 vitamin capsules per cup of drip coffee you drink to put your health in perspective: this only ensures you receive half of the vitamin content that is stated on the label.
It is imperative to not only recognize which nutrients you need most to maintain a healthy mind and body, but to also be aware of how these nutrients are being used after you take them. Are they simply flushed out with your morning latte, or are they absorbed with your dinner? Should you take your vitamins at night, in the morning, or during lunch? Which vitamins are affected by caffeine, and which ones are not?

Here are the 5 most common vitamins and minerals that are negatively impacted by caffeine:

B Vitamins
All B vitamins contain mood lifting and metabolism boosting benefits for your body. Unfortunately, they are used up quickly and are water-soluble. This means that they travel through the water in your cells, which is why they are so efficient and give you noticeable results rapidly. Caffeine is a diuretic, and it flushes out water in your body much faster than what you normally operate on. Many people who take B complex supplements like Tri-B-100 notice that they have brightly colored urine. The bright color is due to the presence of B vitamins. Naturally, the caffeine inhibits your maximum absorption of B vitamins, so it is important to recognize if your B complex supplements are just being flushed down the toilet (literally).

Iron
Iron contributes to blood health and is one of the most important minerals for circulatory health and wellness. Many anemia sufferers do not even realize that their coffee and tea consumption is hindering any iron absorption. Vegetarians understand the importance of iron intake as well and supplement through outside sources or liquid supplements. Caffeine latches onto iron and prevents the body from utilizing it. If your coffee and tea habits are preventing mineral absorption, then it is imperative that supplements like Energizing Iron are taken an hour before or after consuming caffeine.

Zinc
Just like iron, zinc is another mineral that is negatively impacted by the presence of caffeine in the body. When caffeine is floating through the bloodstream, it latches onto zinc (just like it does with iron) and makes it much more difficult for the body to use it. The polyphenols, tannins, in caffeine are the culprit here. They are promoted as an antioxidant, which eliminates the effects of free radicals and stress on the body. This is great for protection against disease and degenerative issues, however it may prevent you from utilizing important minerals like zinc for necessary biochemical processes.

Vitamin D
Caffeine intake and bone loss are related: because caffeine robs the body of beneficial minerals, the bones are unable to use them. Over time, daily caffeine consumption can lead to brittle and weak bones. Osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and fractures have been medically linked with caffeine consumption and inadequate mineral intake. Taking an abundance of vitamin D supplements to proactively diminish the effects of caffeine on the skeleton is a smart idea. Jarrow's D3 5000 contains a high amount of the bone-strengthening vitamin.

Calcium
Calcium acts as the sidekick to vitamin D and bone production. Caffeine limits and negates any calcium you consume by rapidly excreting it through urine. Just like vitamin D and bone disease are connected, calcium is another aspect of this issue. Caffeine consumption has been associated with low calcium in the diet, so it is important to monitor calcium intake to prevent losses that develop into bone disease.

What can I do to prevent vitamin and mineral loss?
Take vitamins with a meal: Many people can easily remedy their vitamin loss by taking supplements with a larger meal like lunch or dinner. Since coffee and other caffeine-containing beverages are most commonly drank before 3 P.M., keeping your vitamins in a pill case to take with lunch will ensure that all of the benefits you're paying for are available for your body to use efficiently.

Limit caffeine consumption or add replacements: Being without adequate nutrients can place your body under high stress to produce enough energy each and every day. One of the best ways to immediately repair any losses your body may have been operating under is to lower your caffeine intake. If you drink 3 cups of coffee before noon, try to drink just one and see how you feel. It's just as warm and comforting to steep a rich and spicy herbal tea, such as chai tea, which contains no caffeine and still boasts the rich depth and earthy flavor coffee has. Reducing the amount of caffeine you take in each day is easy. Over time, your body will naturally produce energy from the vitamins and minerals it is able to utilize that can get you through any day!

Drink, eat, repeat: If you just can't kick the cup of joe, take a supplement that requires 2 or 3 capsules daily to ensure that you're absorbing throughout your day. Even if your first supplement is significantly hindered, the second or third capsule will likely be taken with a meal and more contents will be absorbed in the bloodstream. By taking a vitamin or mineral that is needed a few times a day, you are actually changing how often your body receives nutrients. This ends up giving the body more to work with at once, and nourishes internal systems. Just like you need an intake of food throughout the day to keep you going, your organs need the same kind of attention as well.

By becoming aware of what may be impacting your wellness journey and taking the right steps to avoid these issues, you take charge of your health. These tips are only one aspect of your nutrient knowledge; learn more and explore what vitamins and minerals you may be missing out on-- caffeine or not!

Drug Free ADHD Strategies

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, was recognized as far back as 1845 when German physician Heinrich Hoffman observed children who exhibited fidgety behavior; he even wrote a book to entertain them.

Nutritional Supplements for Kids

 Moms are always looking out for their kids' well-being, but sometimes life can get in the way of sticking to a healthy meal plan, especially if your kids are on the go and busy with their after school programs. Using the fast food drive-through to get your kids fed and in bed at a decent hour isn't an option that most moms will admit to, but we all have treated our kids to one of these meals, especially on road trips and vacations. While all national fast food outlets offer healthy alternatives, such as apple slices and vegetarian burgers (Burger King has veggie burgers, but you will have to ask to order them as they're typically not listed on the menu), your kids will most likely want French fries and chicken nuggets. Consider carrying along some nutritional supplements on your next cross country excursion or school break to make sure your kids get a well balanced diet on the way.

Kids love treats and won't say no to vitamins if they're delicious. Consider Carlson Labs' Chewable Vitamins and Minerals For Kids in a yummy blue raspberry flavor. The entire family will enjoy these pleasant-tasting chewable supplements for children, with the full range of vitamins A through E, as well as K, calcium and iron. DaVinci Labs offers their Kids Mighty Vites in a fruit-flavored wafer form that can be used by children as young as three to get their maximum daily allowance of vitamins A through E. Active kids need potassium, and many processed foods are low in this vital mineral; Kids Mighty Vites ensure your kids get enough potassium for optimal heart and kidney function. 

The mind of a kid is an amazing thing: a three-year-old's brain is twice as active as an adult's in terms of processing information and making neural connections. And the brain will keep on developing and making new connections well into early adulthood, as seen in a research study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, which noted that brain wiring in the frontal lobe, responsible for higher level thinking, continued to make connections in adults past the age of 20. Omega-3 fatty acids, known for their cardio-protecting abilities, are also critical for brain development and vision, especially DHA, docosahexaenoic acid. Carlson Labs offers their Carlson/Kids Chewable DHA Softgels for ages four and up. Your kids will enjoy the bursting orange flavor of the Kids Chewable, and you'll like the fact that you're sneaking the recommended level of fish oil into their diet without getting an "Euww, mommm!" in response. For kids as young as one, consider Integrative Therapeutics' Eskimo Kids, in a delicious tutti-frutti liquid form. A teaspoon-full is all it takes to protect your kids from cardiovascular disease, and the company guarantees Eskimo Kids is tested for contaminants, such as DDT and PCBs, two known carcinogens.

For more great ways to keep your kids healthy and well, check out these other nutritional supplements available on CAMFormulas.com.

5 Reasons You Need Evening Primrose

What is evening primrose? 
Evening primrose-- a delicate, pale yellow flower with gentle petals and bright structure. They grow mostly in North America and the United States. The seeds from evening primrose flowers are extracted and pressed, resulting in one of the most powerful and sacred health treatments. For the past 80 years, evening primrose has been used for numerous medical issues as a natural and herbal treatment.

Here are 5 reasons to integrate this sunny oil into your life:

1. It really loves the ladies.
Evening primrose oil has been shown in numerous studies to significantly reduce premenstrual symptoms such as moodiness, lethargy, and cramps. Women who are suffering with endometriosis also benefit from evening primrose supplements. Menopausual symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and headaches are reduced with the intake of this oil as well. The GLA present in evening primrose oil may be the reason for such powerful effects.

2. It's anti-inflammatory.
GLA, gamma linolenic acid, is an essential fatty acid that has a unique structure. It is an omega-6 fatty acid, which typically promotes inflammation. However, GLA is a potent and special omega-6 that actively repairs and reduces inflammation within the body. By supplementing with evening primrose, your ability to heal and prevent inflammation in the body is bolstered by the GLA. This can boost your immune, endocrine, and even nervous system health.

3. Shiny, healthy, blemish free skin.
One of the side effects of supplementing with GLA-packed evening primrose is improved skin health. The rich oils lubricate your body's systems and hydrate your cells. This translates as softer, smoother skin. Your skin is your body's largest and most exposed organ, so it requires as many nutrients as possible.
Acne sufferers may finally have found the natural solution to clearer skin. By balancing the endocrine system and preventing the overproduction of oil with evening primrose, the GLA directly assists in the healing process of skin cells and prevents blemishes.
Eczema is another skin issue that has been improved by intake of evening primrose by reducing itching, flaking of the skin, and minimizing redness.

4. It can relieve chronic and acute pain.
Evening primrose has been scientifically tested as an alternative therapy for pain relief with positive results. Arthritis is a severely painful disease-- supplementing with evening primrose is shown to reduce the physical pain symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. Headaches have also been proven to significantly lessen with intake of evening primrose.

5. It's an animal-free, natural alternative.
Many vegans and vegetarians are unable to raise their intake of essential fatty acids, which are vital for a healthy body and metabolism. If your metabolism is weakened, this negatively affects all of the processes your body operates on multiple times a day. Evening primrose is a plant-based, low processed source of rich fatty acids and reparative compounds. Barlean's Organic softgels contain the most potent and raw evening primrose oils for a high-quality supplement.

How much do I need?
There is no recommended daily amount standard for evening primrose yet. Most people are recommended to intake 3-8 grams of evening primrose daily. Start with a smaller dosage and work up to larger amounts over time, such as Allergy Research Group's animal-free softgels.

Get Smart About Omega-3s: EPA and DHA

What are EPA and DHA?
EPA and DHA are both Omega-3 fatty acids. They are essential, meaning that the body cannot create or synthesize these fatty acids on its own. Making sure that you are consuming enough of these two is vital for proper overall health and wellness. They also regulate a strong metabolism.
Traditionally, omega-3s are consumed through fatty fish and oils. However, our modern world has dramatically reduced the intake of omega-3s and our health is reflecting this change. Cardiovascular disease, degenerative brain disease, depression, and many other complications are a result of an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
EPA and DHA work together to cohesively balance a healthy body. However, they are two very different fatty acids that have specific functions within the body.



What is EPA? 
Eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA, is the anti-inflammatory fatty acid. Studies have shown its ability to affect cognitive health-- including EPA consumption causing significant inflammation reduction, thinning of the blood to increase bloodflow to the brain and strengthened connectivity within neural messengers that operate functions within the body. This also benefits the communication between the organs and the brain to boost memory, mood, and comprehension. Eicosanoids, compounds that cause inflammation, are halted by EPA. Talk about brain food!



What is DHA?
Docosahexaenoic acid, DHA, is the most plentiful fatty acid within the body. It is found not only in the brain, but also in the retina of your eye. It is also synthesized from ALA consumption, so it does not need to be directly consumed. However, it is wise to supplement with DHA if ALA levels are not high enough.
Pregnancy and DHA have been linked, showing that breast milk contains DHA and is essential for a healthy baby's growth and development. It may achieve this healthy balance because it is a part of the transportation of taurine, choline, and glycine which benefit overall health and energy to build cells. DHA deficiency has been repeatedly linked to depressive states.
Algae create DHA which is used in vegetarian omega-3 supplements. Vegetarians can get their essential fatty acids too!



Why are they beneficial?
Omega-3s have been shown to improve brain health and heart health. Many mood disorders are directly linked with low omega-3 consumption-- especially depression. The science is just as impressive: a recent study has correlated intake of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA and EPA, with greater cognitive function and slowed decline of brain health over time. Your brain is almost 70% fatty tissue, so these findings are not surprising. Nonetheless, we are not getting enough of this powerful nutrient. Fuel your mind and benefit your health throughout your life with these two essential fatty acids.



How much do I need?
The amount of omega-3 fatty acids per day is always dependent on your diet, activity level, genetics, and age. There is no standard daily requirement of omega-3 fatty acids, however, most experts agree that no more than 3 grams a day should be consumed. There is little evidence showing that higher amounts per day are harmful to human health. In order to reach this optimum level of healthy fats, the equivalent of 4 ounces of fish must be consumed on each day of the week. You can save money and reduce exposure to toxins by looking into an omega-3 supplement to maximize the anti-inflammatory health benefits of DHA and EPA.



Why a supplement? The dangers of fish consumption.
Omega-3 fatty acids are naturally found in fish and can be consumed through the diet this way. However, many fish are recommended to only be eaten in moderation. Because of the global climate change that is occurring, toxins are being found in oceans and lakes all over the world. They are called polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs. The biggest fish that are consuming smaller fish within their ecosystems are polluted with the same toxins we have been disposing of for decades. This is because the tiniest organisms at the bottom of the food chain are polluted, which are eaten by slightly larger organisms who become more polluted, and the pollutants become more significant as you go higher up the food chain. These toxins inevitably exist in the fish you eat in very high amounts, especially larger fish like tuna and salmon.
Unfortunately, even though PCBs were banned in 1976, they are still found in our waters and the air today. For this reason, taking a supplement that contains EPA and DHA is a safer decision. While the oils may still be extracted from the fish, you are significantly reducing the impact of the toxins that exist within the entire fish.
Taking a supplement, especially a liquid gel or capsulated form, allows your body to rapidly absorb and utilize the omega-3 fatty acids and immediately heal internal inflammation. Pure Encapsulations EPA Ultimate Softgels are produced with your health in mind: they are eco-friendly and contain high quality EPA fish oil as well as DHA and vitamin E.

Vegetarian? You still have options: Pure Encapsulations entire line of omega-3 products contain non-animal sources too! See their entire collection here.

Deficiency states and statistics.
Brain health and omega-3 consumption are directly linked. Any symptoms related to brain function, such as depression, loss of concentration, and fatigue, can be remedied through the supplementation of these essential fatty acids.
In addition, inflammation and pain are found to be reduced with the intake of DHA and EPA. This is likely due to the anti-inflammatory benefits they have on the body. Heart health and omega-3s are connected too. In a scientific study, the risk of cardiac arrest was reduced by 35 percent when about a gram of omega-3 fatty acids were consumed each day.

Nurturing your brain with DHA and EPA will cause a chain reaction that benefits all of the processes within your body. Your heart will also be conditioned to resist damage and disease with the supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids. In today's world of high stress and busy schedules, taking the extra step to preserve your most powerful organs within the body can extend your life for decades. At CAMFormulas, we understand the need for uncomplicated solutions, and are here to support you on your journey to vibrant health.

Work and Life Balance

Keeping it all together, when it comes to balancing your family responsibilities with work-related ones, can be a daunting task. Busy moms need all the help they can get, from supportive family members and friends to following the right diet and getting enough exercise, along with some much needed down time to decompress and rejuvenate. Use some tried and true strategies, as well as some nutritional supplements, to keep your home and work life at a manageable level.

Use all the resources out there to make your life easier. If you have relatives living nearby, enlist them in your plan. A college age cousin most likely would love some extra income and gets along well with the kids: have them pick up the kids one day a week after school and let them entertain the little ones for some pocket money. If they need a project to do, have them clear out your over-stuffed garage or the kids' old clothes and toys then throw a family-wide yard sale. If you depend on your mom for babysitting, make sure she feels appreciated with a home-cooked meal on the weekend or put a nice roast and some root veggies in a crock pot before you leave for work, then you can all sit down to a hearty meal when you walk in the door after five.

Use technology to make your social life easier and more fun for some much-needed decompression after work. Join up for email alerts from discount websites, such as LivingSocial and GroupOn, which offer fun and unique packages for families and singles alike. From mommy and me exercise sessions to ceramics classes, you can find fun activities at deep discounts. These offers can even be given as gifts to helpful neighbors or friends; just watch the expiration date on them. Moms are generally called upon to answer the eternal question, "What are we doing this weekend?" after a busy week at work, and having several of these offers on tap will make the answer a lot easier.

After the age of 35, calcium levels begin to drop in women, and bone loss becomes a risk factor over time, leading to osteoporosis, especially in Caucasian and Asian women. Unfortunately, the closest some working women get to eating a diet high in calcium is fitting a non-fat mocha into their day. If this is you, consider a dietary supplement, such as Carlson Labs' Chewable Calcium Tablets in yummy vanilla. Each pleasant-tasting tablet gives you 250 milligrams of calcium and can be taken four times a day to get the 1,000-mg. recommended daily allowance of calcium for pre-menopausal women.  The calcium needs of older women rise to prevent bone loss; these ladies need a daily allowance of 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams. Consider Progressive Labs' Coral Calcium Capsules, which offer 1,400 milligrams of this necessary mineral in a vegetarian form made from fossilized coral imported from Okinawa and harvested above sea level to be environmentally sustainable. Whether you're running after your teens or your grandkids, knowing you're getting sufficient amounts of calcium in your diet takes the stress out of all the other things you have to think about in your busy day. 

You may have never heard of the flowering herb, vitex; but if premenstrual symptoms, such as bloating and mood swings, get in the way of keeping your life flowing like a well-oiled machine, you might want to check it out. Since the ancient Greeks, this Mediterranean native plant has been valued for its medicinal properties, and in Germany, it's still used by homeopaths to treat PMS issues. Consider Nature's Way Vitex Capsules that contain 400 milligrams of the vitus agnus castus, or chaste tree. This herbal supplement builds up slowly in your system, so the suggested dosage is two to three capsules for the first eight to 12 weeks then once daily thereafter for best results. 

For more great ways to keep your health and wellness goals part of your busy life, check out these other nutritional supplements.

Why Is Fish Oil Good For You?

You may have heard a lot about the benefits of adding fish oil to your diet and wondered what all the hoopla was about. Studies done of the Inuit peoples in Greenland over a 24-year period showed that the incidence of heart disease was half that of Westerners, despite the fact that significant amounts of high-fat foods, such as whale and seal blubber, were consumed. Not unlike the later French paradox, where researchers noted a reduced rate of cardiovascular disease in those who ate a diet high in saturated fats, scientists have narrowed down Omega-3 essential fatty acids, most notably docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), that protect the heart against bad cholesterol (LDL) while raising the good type (HDL).

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), fish oil, whether added to the diet by eating trout, halibut, tuna, sardines or salmon, or from nutritional supplements, can reduce your chances of a heart attack, arrhythmia, athlerosclerosis and stroke. Moreover, fish oil can reduce serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which have been shown as factors in Alzheimer's disease. Omega-3 fatty acids also have shown to offer immunity against the common cold and flu and reduce inflammation in patients who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and intestinal disorders. Fish oil has even been shown effective in children who suffer from ADHD and dyslexia by improving brain function. So these are some of the many reasons for fish oil's popularity. 

Believe it or not, your grandmother and her grandmother knew the benefits of fish oil in the form of cod liver oil. Although this dietary supplement has gotten a bad rap over the years for its taste, it's now available in a much more palatable form, including orange, lemon and berry flavors. Just like Mary Poppins said, "a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down," but these formulas use natural essential oils for a pleasant tasting formula. Consider Pharmax's Finest Pure Fish Oil flavored with orange essential oil, which can be taken by kids and adults alike. You'll get the recommended dose of DHA and EPA in this all-natural formula, made from anchovies and sardines, without the unpleasant, fishy aftertaste.

Pharmax also their High EPA Finest Pure Fish Oil, also flavored with essential orange oil in an extra virgin olive oil base. The AHA recommends that a heart-healthy diet should include two servings of fish per week, but recent studies have shown that some fish, including tuna steaks and farmed salmon, should be avoided due to high levels of mercury and other carcinogens. The fish oil contained in Pharmax's formulation is guaranteed to be free of measurable levels of mercury, heavy metals and PCBs, so you know you're getting all the health benefits of fish oil with none of the risks.

Check out the other heart-healthy fish oil supplements from CAM Formulas, in both liquid and powder form, to keep you and your family's nutritional goals on the right track in the fight against heart disease. 

Coping with Depression

Everyone gets depressed at some point in their life; even the most happy go lucky individuals can experience moments of sadness and despondency that seem insurmountable and hard to define. Whether it's a gray gloomy day that matches your mood, a relationship that seems to be going nowhere or aches and pains that bring you down, the sources of depression may be complex and threaten your well-being and sense of purpose. With the right coping strategies and keeping your goals and health concerns in mind, conquering depression is well within your reach and can be achieved with a concentrated plan of attack. 

Reach out to others and get that sense of community that gives us all a feeling of belonging and inner peace. Know that we're all put here on this planet for a purpose and, although you may not have grasped its meaning, your presence here has one. Depression is an intensely lonely experience, and all those interior monologues re-played over and over in your mind will become self-fulfilling prophecies unless you shut them off. Talk to a close friend, a religious advisor or your family doctor to get some insight into what's bugging you. Reaching outside yourself is key to gaining the inner strength to change your negative outlook; you just may discover that what you thought was an isolated problem is common, and there are resources out there and steps to take to get your life back on track.

Find something to do in your spare time that is constructive, fulfilling and outwardly directed. If your depression has resulted in weight gain, look for a boot camp class in your area or join a gym that offers classes for a sense of community and purpose. Volunteering is a way to contribute and achieve a sense of belonging; go to your local United Way agency and find out where your skills could be best utilized. Depression is the worst kind of pity party imaginable, and depressed people are typically self-absorbed. Getting outside yourself and making others' lives easier will uplift your own. 

Since the introduction of Prozac in the late 1980s, antidepressant medications have been touted by psychiatrists as a way to alter the brain's chemistry. Serotonin is the chemical responsible for regulating mood, and you can promote its production naturally by taking 5-HTP, or 5-hydroxy L-tryptophan, an amino acid. Metabolic Response Modifier offers their 5-HTP Capsules in a vegetarian formula derived from griffonia seeds, a plant native to Africa. Another vegan-friendly supplement is from Protocol For Life Balance and their 5-HTP Capsules, which can be taken up to three times a day for acute symptoms. 

Another way to treat depression naturally is with SAM-e, or S-adenosylmethionine, a synthetically-derived compound that increases the production of serotonin and dopamine to enhance and regulate mood. PhysioLogics offers their SAM-e Tablets, which also contain vitamins B-2 and C to improve mood as well as restore healthy joint function. Jarrow Formulas has a pharmaceutical-grade formula with their SAM-e Tablets that do double duty as a mood regulator as well as a liver detoxifier, all with vegan-friendly ingredients.

St John's wort has been used as far back as the ancient Greeks as a painkiller and mood enhancer, and it is frequently prescribed by German apothecaries as a treatment for depression. In fact, in a 2005 report published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, the herb was shown to be more effective than Prozac in the treatment of depression. Enzymatic Therapy offers their St. John's Wort Extract Tablets made under the rigorous standards of the German Commission E, the recognized global authority on herbal medications. The herb is also available in liquid form in Herb Pharm's St. John's Wort Extract derived from the freshly-cut tops of the flowering buds. Consider this all-natural alternative to enhance your mood, gain mental clarity and achieve that sense of well-being that can be within your reach once again. 

5 Tips and 5 Products for Detoxing

Detox is a bit of a buzz word in the health and wellness media world. "In order for our bodies to heal, we must detoxify it," or the all too familiar "after holiday detox" that for some of us may consist of eating nothing but fruits and vegetables for two weeks in January. No matter how expansive your knowledge on detoxification may be, the definition of it is always changing.
Historically, detoxification was used for spiritual enlightenment and transcending in order to connect with a higher being. Today, we often relate a detox with environmental issues, emotional disruptions, and our health. It has become a way to be lighter, brighter, and more vibrant. Most of the time a detox is successful if we "haven't felt this good in years!" In some ways, spiritual enlightenment or religion gives us that same feeling, so the history behind detoxification has followed it to present day. Nonetheless, detoxification can be a very important routine in a healthy lifestyle when it is done correctly and appropriately. You may be asking yourself when you should begin a rejuvenating detox.

Who Needs to Start a Detox?
Are you feeling emotionally burdened? How are your stress levels? Has your weight been increasing and you are not quite sure why? Maybe your weight is creeping up because your stress has risen and so you've eaten poorly: a classic and common chain reaction. Consider a detoxification strategy to jump start or refresh your body and mind. It is the most powerful source of empowerment, because you rely on your own body to heal yourself. In realizing that you possess this capability, magical revelations about yourself and the world can occur.
In some cases, severe symptoms like rashes, swelling, hives, and pain are associated with much more serious health complications that a detox may or may not resolve. Please be considerate of your body and use caution with any new health routine.

Two Types of Detox
Not only are there different reasons for starting a detox, there are multiple types of detoxes to do. Do you prefer to integrate powerful natural herbs to flush out toxins from your body? Look into starting a whole body detoxification to assist your body in healing. Many more serious symptoms benefit from herbal supplementation. Would you like your organs to do the work with additional vitamins and minerals? Introduce a vitamin cleanse and support your body's natural systems.

Whole Body Detoxification
In the most simple explanation, a whole body detox utilizes your organs to push out toxic substances and give you a sense of renewal. Many people begin with a fast. It is important to note that the type of fast is not limited to just abstaining from food: giving up sugar, caffeine, and alcohol are powerful fasts on their own. Especially if you regularly consume them, the benefits of staving off of chemicals and processed foods are a great start to a detox. Your body will begin to repair itself from years of damaging lifestyle habits. Some forms of whole body detox require that meat and dairy be excluded from the diet to normalize digestion. This offers the intestines a break from having to digest complex foods. Making these monumental decisions about your detox approach can completely transform your results.

2 Ways to Ensure a Fast Lasts
During the fasting phase, fatigue and lethargy can set in. This is the point where it is easy to lose focus and let go of the fast entirely. Stay strong, and take a B vitamin supplement to boost your body's natural energy makers. Integrative Therapeutics End Fatigue is a daily B complex that is designed for natural energy production.
You may also benefit from drinking additional green tea for its protective antioxidants and low caffeine amount. However, taking green tea in capsule form may be more beneficial for those who have a busy schedule or cannot drink 6-8 cups of tea. Vitanica's supplement packs 470mg of green tea-- a great sidekick to have during a fast.

Once you have begun your fasting period, the organs in the body can benefit from natural herbal supplementation. They have been used for hundreds of years, and for this reason are one of the best additions to strengthen your results. By targeting the organs that detoxify the body everyday--your kidneys, liver, and intestines-- herbs bolster their activity and lend strength. Especially during a fast, your organs will need the support.
Gaia Herbs Cleanse & Detox Tea contains multiple toxin-flushing herbs like burdock, fennel, and licorice. It's a great way to support your body during a fast and is very flavorful with lemon and peppermint to soothe the intestines.

Vitamin Cleanse
You may be asking, "how does a vitamin cleanse my body? Aren't I just adding more nutrients into it?" And the answer is "yes." However, because you supply your body with larger amounts of vitamins and minerals, the body is able to operate more efficiently and get more done. Consider vitamins and minerals as important as good night's sleep; how much more revitalized and energetic do you feel after a rest? By supplementing with the right vitamins in the right amounts, you can give this same benefit to your body. Your cells will be stronger and live longer with additional nutrients to take in.

Vitamin C is strongly linked to cell repair processes within the body, and can quickly heal any toxic environment that may be in your body. Any physical symptoms related to rashes or blemishes greatly benefit from vitamin C supplements due to its healing power.
The best form of vitamin C supplementation during detox is powdered. Directly consuming the vitamin in this way allows the body to utilize it quickly. Nature's Way produces a high-potency, organic powdered C. Need lower acidity for a sensitive stomach? Try Metabolic Maintenance's powdered C.
Remember that it is not the vitamin that is doing the work, but your cells that are now being fed vitamin C which promotes healthy cell growth.

The True Power of a Multivitamin
Never underestimate the value of taking your multivitamin daily. Do take detoxifying vitamins for an extra benefit, but don't forget about the essentials! Since a detox can be extremely depleting for the body, all other daily vitamins and minerals need to be available for your cells to utilize. Many of the vitamins that assist your organs in removing toxins are also water-soluble. You need to make sure you are consuming these vitamins multiple times daily. Supplement with a liquid multivitamin twice a day to give yourself plenty of additional nutrients. Pharmax makes a fantastic liquid multivitamin for any fast or detox.

The "Glue" of Detox Components
If there is one all important tool that you can use for any detox or fast, it is to drink more water. Water has been a natural way to detoxify the body for hundreds of years. By simply providing your cells with enough moisture, their performance can greatly improve. This means more energetic and healthy days for you. Even a short duration of dehydration can place stress on the kidneys and liver-- your detoxifying organs.
Did you know that sweating is an evolutionary trait we have acquired which expels toxins from the body? Beads of sweat are carriers that flush toxins away. Thus, the more water you have available in your body, the ability you have of naturally detoxifying is greater.

The 5 most important tips when starting a detox are to:

Think mindfully and set intentions: If you are goal-oriented and have an accomplishment to achieve with a detox, you will have more drive and determination to reach it. Secondly, if you have clear reasons for starting a detox make sure you stay inspired by reminding yourself of them.

Vitamins are your friend: Remember the power that vitamins have in supporting your organs. The B vitamins, vitamin C, and minerals are the most important to consume often.

Drink more water: When all else fails, supply your cells with instant nourishment! Even a 1% decrease in hydration leads to reduced concentration.

Make time for sleep: Depleting your body of toxins can cause exhaustion. The level of dependence your body had on caffeine, sugar, or any other toxin needs time to establish the new habits you are making without the stimulants.

Establish a support system: It may seem difficult, but many of your friends or family members can readily lend you a supportive hand in any detox you take on. Even making a phone call to a good friend can alleviate stress or fear during the process.

The 5 beneficial detoxification products mentioned in this article are:
Integrative Therapeutics End Fatigue  Vitanica's Green Tea Supplement 
Nature's Way Organic Powdered Vitamin C  (or Metabolic Maintenance's Low Acid Vitamin C)
Gaia Herbs Cleanse & Detox Tea
Pharmax Liquid Multivitamin and Mineral

Staying Active and Healthy With Your Children

All busy moms often must pick their battles when it comes to their parenting responsibilities balanced with their work and personal needs. Sometimes you may look around your messy house and wonder how you could've let it get this way; then you look down at your kids' smiling, makeup-smeared faces (your makeup) and know that it's all worth it. Of course, making sure you're healthy, calm and on top of your game can make a stress-filled situation (and what mom's life isn't a little hectic?) a little less so in terms of how you deal with it.

Use your kids to keep your exercise and healthy diet resolutions. They need exercise even more than you do, and most kids get into the trap of playing video games and surfing the Web rather than getting outside and playing. Motivate them with a bike ride or a walk around a local park then treat all of you to frozen yogurt afterward. Make weekend chores around the house a chance to burn off some extra calories and steam. Send one of the kids around the house with a broom to sweep cobwebs off the ceiling, vents and in corners while another thins out their toy chest or clothes closet for donation items. Send them outside to weed the garden and if they're older, hand them a pair of pruning shears. Washing the car is another great way to keep them busy and out of your hair while you get some things done around the house. Reward them with a movie, a trip to the roller rink or a dinner night out with a half-off coupon, and always heap praise on them since that can be the best reward of all.

To keep up with your kids you need all the energy you can get, and this is where vitamin and dietary supplements come into play. B-complex vitamins are critical to proper metabolic function and a healthy immune system. If you're following a vegetarian diet, you need more amounts of B-12, which is used to produce red blood cells. Consider Enzymatic Therapy's Daily Energy B Complex Capsules, which promote a good night's sleep along with increased vitality. Another concern of an active mom may be anemia, which is an issue in vegan women who exercise, even if it's just running down the street chasing after a kid. Unless you and the kids enjoy eating a lot of Swiss chard or liver, you may not be getting sufficient iron in your diet. Check out Nature Way's Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multivitamin made with lemon grass and blue-green algae, along with a blend of Japanese mushrooms known for their restorative properties. 

As we age, our bones decrease in density; studies have shown that, in particular, Asian and Caucasian women have twice the chance of developing osteoporosis than any other demographic, and women who drank diet soda in their youth are at greatest risk due to the phosphorous content, which eats away at calcium. So after getting rid of sodas from your diet and limiting your kids' intake, you should consider calcium supplements, such as Douglas Laboratories' Osteo-Guard Plus Vitamin D Tablets made with collagen to shore up the connective tissue lost in your bones. For an easy to take calcium supplement, try a spoonful of Enzymatic Therapy's Liquid Calcium Magnesium in delicious vanilla. Chasing after your kids is also good for your bones, as it's considered a weight-bearing activity, so enjoy your workout! 

Time Management Tips For New Mothers

Caring for a newborn at any age can be a stressful situation and particularly so if you're an older mom. You may have forgotten how often you'll be up and down at night for feedings and diaper changes, or you may have waited to have kids and had no idea how hard it would be to stand up, unassisted, while holding onto an infant. Moreover, there's a new demographic, called the sandwich generation, who must care for their own children as well as their elderly parents, which suddenly takes the grandparents out of the equation when it comes to helping out with child care and babysitting. This presents a myriad of problems to the older parent of a newborn who may need some coping strategies, along with some nutritional supplements, to make her parenting responsibilities less burdensome so that she can enjoy those precious first 12 months of baby's life.

If you've traded your work wardrobe for sweats and spit-up rags, you will soon discover that time management is just as important, when dealing with a newborn, as it is with bosses and deadlines. Use any available downtime you have throughout the day to "git 'er done." If the baby was up all night with colic and decides to sleep in, you should too. You'll be able to function better and address your baby's needs if you're well-rested. All new parents soon discover that the expression "sleeping like a baby" was invented by someone who never had kids; however, if you're lucky enough to have one that sticks to a fairly regular schedule, use this to your advantage. Do the laundry, change the cat litter and strip the bedding when you have this rare opportunity. If your kid falls asleep in his car seat, bring it into the house with you and let him sleep in it. The jury is still out about letting your baby cry himself to sleep, otherwise known as the Ferber method; as a new mom, you will start to recognize when your baby is fussy, cries briefly then goes back to sleep, or is screaming for food and/or a diaper change. Let your significant other know when you've had a hard day and anticipate needing some help at night. Or you may decide just to hand him the baby as soon as he walks in the door. Once the baby gets on your schedule, you may not know what to do with all your new free time.

 Babies need stimulation, whether a homemade rattle made from a dried gourd or an electronic set of play car keys to a simple game of peek-a-boo, and you will likely find that you become your baby's favorite plaything. Try to mix up chores with playtime so both of you get what you need. The bottom compartment in your stroller can easily carry a bag of groceries so make a field trip to the store one of the highlights of your day.  If you want a real challenge, take a hike around a nature preserve or park; just make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen, an extra bottle and a hat. Join a mother's club in your community to meet up with other moms with similar-aged kids. Here you can compare parenting styles, figure out who's getting a full night's sleep and who's not and vent about challenges and situations your partner might not otherwise understand. Also, look into joining a mommy and me exercise program or baby gym, where you and your child can get a workout without having to leave the ground.

As an older new mom, you need to protect the cartilage around your joints, which break down and lose their cushioning properties as we age. Glucosamine, made from, not surprisingly, glucose and glutamine, an amino acid, is used to repair damaged cartilage naturally and is often combined with chondroitin, another molecule-level cartilage supplement. Consider adding a supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin in your new mom's dietary supplement arsenal when it comes to staying healthy and keeping your joints from snap, crackle and popping when you get up and down on the floor with a crawling newborn. Nature Way has their FlexMax Glucosamine Chondroitin Tablets derived from the chitin, or shell material, found in lobster, shrimp and crabs. If you're allergic to shellfish, consider another option, which also contains vitamins B-6 and C, available from NOW's Glucosamine & Chondroitin Tablets made from bovine cartilage.

To keep your energy levels high to keep up with your newborn and his activity spurts, consider vitamin B12, long known for its energizing properties. For an easy to take dietary supplement, try NOW's B12 Instant Energy Packets in a refreshing, vegetarian-friendly citrus flavor or Enzymatic Therapy's Fatigued to Fantastic Energy Revitalization System in berry splash or citrus flavors with the addition of energy-enhancing taurine. Two more options to increase your energy and stamina include Amazing Grass' Green Super Food Lemon-Lime Energy Powder made from spirulina, wheat grass and yerba mate or NewChapter's Perfect Energy Tablets with vitamins A, C, D, E and K, along with ginseng root and bioflavonoids, known for their antioxidant properties.

Treat Fibromyalgia Naturally

There is no cure for fibromyalgia, so a diagnosis may leave you with more questions than answers when it comes to treatment options. According to the Mayo Clinic, fibromyalgia is "widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues." The pain radiates from deep within the muscles and occurs on both sides of the upper and lower body. Women typically experience fibromyalgia more so than men, and some form of trauma, whether a surgery, infection or psychological event, may trigger an acute onset, or a combination of these factors, over time, may result in a diagnosis. 

The way the brain processes nerve signals may predispose some individuals to be more sensitive to pain; in turn, these pathways in the brain can change over time and increase levels of neurotransmitter chemicals, which may produce pain signals, or the memory thereof, even when there's no precipitating event. Those who suffer from fibromyalgia may feel tired, even after a full night's sleep, because the pain interrupts the REM cycle, which is the period where the brain rejuvenates itself and energy levels are restored. This is a vicious cycle of pain with no respite, and many people diagnosed with fibromyalgia become unable to engage in daily activities they once enjoyed doing.

There are prescription medications that can treat the symptoms of fibromyalgia, primarily by regulating the neurotransmitters responsible for nerve or muscle pain; but if you're looking for a more natural approach, there are indeed other options. First, consider meditation or some form of stress relief. Exercise comes in as a healthy alternative as well. Establish a healthy sleep regimen, avoid caffeinated beverages and follow a well-balanced meal plan to give your body as much support as possible. Alternative medicine strategies, such as acupuncture, massage, yoga and tai chi, are other ways to treat fibromyalgia naturally.

Clinical evidence has shown that serotonin levels greatly influence pain receptors in the brain, and antidepressant manufacturers have known about this since the advent of Prozac in the late 1980s. A natural way to get your body to produce more serotonin is with the amino acid 5-HTP (Hydroxy-Tryptophan). Metabolic Response Modifier's Vegetarian Capsules are derived from griffonia seeds native to Africa. Another option, which also contains vitamins B-6 and C, is available from Nature's Way with their 5-HTP Tablets.
To keep your energy levels high as well as your body's ability to fight off disease, you need a good night's sleep. Melatonin has been shown to naturally regulate sleep cycles, and many frequent flyers use it to reestablish their Circadian rhythms, especially for overseas travel between different time zones. To wake up refreshed and rejuvenated, consider trying Metagenic's Benesom Tablets with passionflower extract, long known for its calming properties. Pure Encapsulations offers their Melatonin Capsules in a vegan-friendly formula. If you need an easy-to-take alternative, consider NOW's Liquid Melatonin with vanilla and orange extract.

 St. John's wort has been used as far back as the ancient Greeks to treat anxiety and nervous conditions. The National Institutes of Health report that this herb is also used to treat sleep disorders and depression. Consider Enzymatic Therapy's St. John's Wort Tablets to regulate mood and enhance your general well-being. For a vegetarian alternative, try NOW's Mood Support Capsules to regulate nerve function and produce an uplifted feeling. For a liquid option, consider Herb Pharm's St. John's Wort Extract derived from fresh flower buds.

10 Ways to Fight Anxiety Naturally

What is anxiety? 
"You're such a worrywart!" 
"I'm so nervous I could throw up!" 
"I was so scared, I couldn't think!" 


All of us experience forms of anxiety throughout our lives, whether it is from work, our personal lives, or even within our own minds. The human heart rate increases while watching a film that contains explosions, flashes, and fast-paced movement. This is based on the human chemical reaction of flight-or-flight, which is an adaptation to protect us from harm. Early human ancestors were put to the test, outrunning large predator animals and preparing for extremely stressful periods of time like famines or harsh winters. Fortunately, our daily lives do not put us in this kind of danger anymore. What our daily lives do bring us is modern stress that our human bodies are programmed to adapt to with physiological symptoms. Anxiety is a result of the over stimulation of these adaptations: a sustained, elevated heartbeat, sweaty palms, emotional outbursts, gastrointestinal discomfort, and dozens of other uncomfortable symptoms. 


Over time, repeated feelings of anxiousness can result in a habitual body response that is independent of reality: if your body has been trained to respond to stress with a particular symptom, it will try to outsmart the stress and anticipate it. Many of us have been in car accidents when driving to work or home. Anxiety can completely overwhelm your entire day. You may even feel worry by just thinking about going to work, or driving on the freeway. 


Scientists have been discovering incredible treatments, pharmaceudical and natural, that alleviate or combat chronic anxiety. Many people feel a need to pursue natural remedies because medicines only remove the symptom of stress without changing the root of the problem. Others cannot afford the high price tag that often accompanies prescriptions, or do not trust the side effects associated with many medications. Fortunately, the body has a natural ability to heal itself of all imbalances or problems as long as the right environment is in place. This is where vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplements come in: 


Homeostasis is the state of equilibrium among interdependent systems. 


For humans, the process of reaching homeostasis is constantly operating every time a change occurs. For example, when you eat, the body achieves homeostasis by digesting the food and utilizing the nutrients from your meal. When you start to feel nervous about a job interview, the body extracts vitamins to try and treat the stress. Over time, this can deplete vitamins within your body and cause a deficiency. Without ample amounts of a vitamin, you become less effective at fighting stress. This is also why repeated stress seems larger and more looming as time goes on without any treatment. 
This is just one theory for the origins of chronic anxiety disorders. 


By using a natural treatment, like a vitamin, for anxiety or stress, you are complimenting your body's natural inventory of stress-fighting tools rather than eradicating symptoms. By treating anxiety this way, you preserve the strength of your own organs and extend your life significantly. 

Here are the 10 best body-loving sources of anxiety treatment: 

10. Selenium 

Selenium is a mineral that is needed in the body for immune function, protection, and thyroid function. Based on a recently published long-term epidemiological study, women who had reduced intake of selenium increased their risk of developing depression by 95%! Their statement also boasts the antioxidant qualities of selenium and that it is a powerful treatment and prevention plan for depression or other anxiety disorders. Nature's Way and NewMark produce high-quality sources of selenium to wash away your worries. 

9. Potassium 

Potassium, like Selenium, is a mineral that regulates necessary body processes. Specifically, Potassium benefits the heart and mind: two important organs that fight anxiety symptoms. Neuron transmitters are the directors of messages within the brain and to the body, so supplying your diet with Potassium will boost your brain function. Pure Encapsulations Potassium capsules are a great way to increase your mineral availability of potassium to tackle daily stress and anxiety. 

8. Amino Acids: GABA 

What is GABA? It is a chemical amino acid that assists the brain in sending messages throughout the body. It also is involved with brain wave emissions. GABA is in charge of regulating precious anti-anxiety brain waves linked to deep sleep, alertness, and excitement. More specifically, sound and complete sleep as well as an upbeat mood are indicators that GABA is present in beneficial amounts. Those who have lower amounts in their bodies lose the ability to fight anxiety and feel the mentally painful side effects. Without enough GABA, you lose the precious equilibrium to maintain homeostasis. Vitanica's GABA Ease contains a combination of herbal and vitamin anxiety support. 

7. L-theanine & Green Tea 

L-theanine is an amino acid that actually makes GABA levels in the body higher than they would be if you supplement with GABA alone. In addition, there have been reports of a calm and peaceful state of mind when users take or consume L-theanine, which is a side effect of the boost your brain gets from this valuable protein. Green tea naturally contains L-theanine! Double up your anxiety treatment by taking a L-theanine supplement from Enzymatic Therapy with GABA and feel the zen-like benefits. 

6. Vitamin E 

Fat-soluble vitamins are among the most beneficial, due to the fact that they are stored within the body and are utilized throughout the day. Many people simply do not get enough of these vitamins and minerals. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant-- something we now know that actively fights anxiety and stress. In addition, vitamin E supports heart health which can diminish visible symptoms related to stress. By giving the heart its vital nutrients, it can better respond to stress and culminate into symptoms that are less severe. Douglas Laboratories vitamin E softgels are better absorbed within the body to deliver rapid benefits. 

5. Stress Complex 

Let's face it: many of us do not have the time to research and experiment with different sources of anxiety treatments. Luckily, many thoughtful supplement companies have combined the best into one daily tablet:


Douglas Laboratories Executive Stress Formula contains a combination of nutrients that support the body's stress defenses.


Enzymatic Therapies Adrenal Stress End has vitamins, hormones, and minerals that target the glands of your body and their role in diminishing stress.


Herb Pharm's Stress Manager is a liquid, 
easily absorbed supplement for physical symptoms of stress. It contains exclusively herbal forms of protection like Holy Basil, antioxidant Reishi, and Rhodiola root. 

4. Calcium and Magnesium 

Think of calcium and magnesium as the superheroes that defeat the body's fight-or-flight response. This is absolutely accurate: when this stress response occurs in your body, calcium and magnesium are released into the bloodstream to initiate your body's capability to respond and eventually heal. When there is not enough of these two minerals for other functions like the production of energy and tissue, the ability to recover from fight-or-flight diminishes. Metabolic Maintenance combines 4 of our 10 anxiety solutions in their Cal/Mag Plus capsules to boost your stress-busting processes. 

3. Vitamin D 

"The sunshine vitamin" could be the reason we feel joyful on a sunny day compared to a cloudy one. Many people do not pinpoint the source of their anxiety until vitamin D levels in the body reach a significant low point. Behavioral disorders have been linked to vitamin D deficiency. This could be because D is a steroid hormone, meaning it bolsters the brain's functions and may prevent negative stress responses. Stay smiling and take readily-absorbed vitamin D capsules by NOW. 

2. Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is an antioxidant-- but it is different from vitamins D and E and why they are an antioxidant. When the body is in a stress state, it causes excess oxidation. Vitamin C has been shown to negate the effects of excess oxidation in this sense. Stress and anxiety cause multiple symptoms that vitamin C fights off. White blood cells are also strengthened when supplemented with vitamin C. It is a water-soluble vitamin, so it is released from the body quickly. Make sure to get additional vitamin C into your diet with Nature's Way Vitamin C powder and feel relief from the limits of anxiety. 

1. B Vitamins 

The most effective treatment for anxiety involves the family of B vitamins. All 8 of the B vitamins assist your body in energy production and absorption, as well as mental function. Your nervous system relies on B vitamins to stay healthy and regulate hormones correctly to each of your organs. Many of the symptoms associated with anxiety are the same symptoms that come from a vitamin B deficiency. A feel good attitude and higher amounts of energy are side effects of taking a B complex supplement: two strong allies in the fight against anxiety disorders. Pioneer's B Complex Stress Formula is a high-concentration of these valuable whole body vitamins for anxiety.