By medical nutritionist Dr Sarah Brewer, an expert in food, herbs and supplements

Anxiety is a common response to stress, triggering unpleasant feelings of apprehension, dread, panic and impending doom. While short-lived anxiety is appropriate in some situations, such as going for an interview, if you worry excessively about everyday problems and are always anticipating disaster you could have generalised anxiety disorder. Do see your doctor before the anxiety becomes more severe or leads to depression.

There is an ongoing debate about whether anxiety disorders are mainly the result of biological changes in the brain, and therefore likely to respond to drug treatment, or whether they are psychological in nature and more likely to improve with cognitive behaviour therapy. It seems that both physical and psychological processes are at work, so that combined therapy is often the most effective approach. Relaxation techniques and breathing exercises can also help you cope.

If you are not on medication, some supplements can help to reduce mild symptoms:

Valerian is one of the most calming herbs available and can help to relieve anxiety, muscle tension and promote tranquillity. It is often used with other herbs that have similar effects, such as lemon balm and hops, to ease nervous anxiety, insomnia and to help avoid panic attacks.

Chamomile has a gentle anxiety-reducing action and also promotes sleep. In one study, it even worked with anxious patients who were about to undergo a stressful heart procedure. http://mylowerbloodpressure.com/herbal-medicines/chamomile-tea

Rhodiola is a traditional herbal remedy that helps to combat mild anxiety and associated symptoms such as fatigue and exhaustion. It acts on the adrenal glands to reduce levels of stress hormones, helps to boost energy levels and improves sleep quality.

Where anxiety is associated with depression, St John’s Wort is a traditional herbal remedy that can help to lift a low mood. Another option is 5-HTP which can improve mild depression and sleep quality.

Vitamins and minerals containing calcium, magnesium and B group vitamins are also important for healthy function of the nervous system. While diet should always come first, if you are not eating properly due to a stress, a multivitamin and mineral supplement is a good idea as a nutritional safety net.

NB: Seek advice before taking supplements if you are on prescribed medication, as interactions can occur.

About Dr Sarah Brewer
Dr Sarah Brewer is a medical nutritionist and an expert in food, herbs and supplements. She qualified from Cambridge University with degrees in Natural Sciences, Medicine and Surgery. After working in general practice, she gained a Master’s degree in Nutritional Medicine. Sarah is a licensed medical doctor, a registered nutritionist and a registered nutritional therapist. On top of this, Sarah is also an award-winning author of over 60 popular self-help books.

For more information on diet and supplements, visit Dr Sarah Brewer’s Nutritional Medicine website at www.DrSarahBrewer.com If you have high blood pressure, read her advice at www.mylowerbloodpressure.com.