Anxiety (back to nutrition facts A to Z menu) Anxiety CharacteristicsAnxiety is a very common problem. More women than men appear to suffer from it, but the truth may be that fewer men are willing to admit to themselves or others that they are suffering from anxiety or will seek help. Anxiety can be either acute or chronic. Acute anxiety often manifests in panic attacks, during which time the sufferer cannot think clearly and is overwhelmed by feelings of impending doom. Trembling, heart palpitations, dizziness, feelings of claustrophobia and shortness of breath are some of the symptoms that may be experienced. Chronic anxiety is less severe at the time, but is with the sufferer much of the time. It tends to leave the person feeling quite fatigued. Both acute and chronic anxiety have a basis in physical malfunction in brain chemistry, where the brain sends and receives false emergency signals. Adrenalin and noradrenalin are then released, causing the same physiological changes in the body as would be experienced in a true ‘danger’ situation, e.g. being chased by the tiger scenario. This can often be caused by the blood sugar being imbalanced (see hypoglycaemia) or food sensitivity or allergy. Anxiety Diet advice and nutrition facts  | Investigate with a nutritional consultant or allergy specialist whether there may be allergies or food intolerances. Also investigate hypoglycaemia. | | Include plenty of foods in the diet which are rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and potassium, vitamin C and B. All these are needed and easily depleted by stress. | | Eat little and often to maintain balanced blood sugar. | | Avoid coffee, tea, cola, chocolate or sugar and foods containing sugar or refined carbohydrates, such as soft drinks, pastries, white bread, white rice, and alcohol. |
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