What are the Best Supplements for Stress and Anxiety?

Stress affects us all uniquely, like a fingerprint—it's personal, intricate, and can manifest in many ways. For some, just the mere thought of a looming deadline is enough to send stress levels soaring, while for others, it takes a significant event to trigger that rush of adrenaline. Regardless of the trigger, our response to stress is completely unique to each and every one of us.

In this blog, we'll be talking about the fascinating world of stress, and exploring its impact on our body and mind. We’ll discuss the role of stress hormones within the body, the most common signs that stress has taken hold, along with some stress management techniques and the best supplements to help you reclaim your peace of mind. So, get ready to learn how to embrace a calmer, more resilient you.

What is Stress and How it Impacts the Body:

Stress is a complex interplay between mind and body, triggered by internal and external factors. Whether it's a sudden surge of adrenaline or an urgent bathroom break, stress manifests uniquely in each individual. And that's the beauty of it, we’re all wonderfully unique, each with our own responses to life's trials.

When stress strikes, our body springs into action, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline prepares us for immediate action, boosting heart rate and focus in the renowned "fight or flight" response. Meanwhile, cortisol quietly regulates metabolism, stabilising glucose levels and suppressing non-essential functions, priming us to react swiftly to the perceived threat.

These hormones are produced by our adrenal glands, small grape-like organs nestled above the kidneys. While our fight or flight response was originally reserved for life-threatening situations, in today's fast paced world, we find ourselves hitting that panic button on a daily basis, from battling rush hour traffic to meeting deadlines. Even just the thought of stressors can elicit the same physical response, taxing our immune, digestive, and nervous systems.

Yet, stress isn't always the villain in our story. In small doses, it can be a powerful motivator, propelling us to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. However, chronic stress overwhelms coping mechanisms, manifesting in physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. 

Recognising stress's evolutionary roots highlights the importance of adaptive coping strategies in our modern world. So, armed with understanding and resilience, let's navigate life's challenges with peace.

Recognising the Signs and Symptoms of Stress:

While stress wears many disguises, from physical sensations, and emotional shifts, to behavioural changes, being able to identify its common indicators is key to managing its impact on overall wellbeing.

Here are some telltale signs and symptoms to watch out for:

• Panic Attacks: Suddenly feeling overwhelmed by an intense wave of anxiety or fear.

• Fatigue: Feeling tired and exhausted, even after a full night's sleep.

• Overwhelmed & Anxious: Feeling on edge, like you're on the brink of a breakdown.

• Increased Heart Rate: Your heart racing like it's trying to outpace your worries.

• Digestive Disruptions: Bouts of diarrhoea, bloating or constipation as your gut rebels against stress in ‘flight or fight’ mode, as opposed to ‘rest and digest’ for healthy digestion.

• Adrenaline Rush/Light Headed: Boosts of adrenaline, leaving you feeling dizzy or lightheaded.

• Appetite Changes: Finding it difficult to eat, increased appetite, intense sugary and salty food cravings and experiencing changes in eating habits.

• Poor Sleep/Insomnia: Struggling to get to sleep, tossing and turning throughout the night or waking up still tired no matter how long you sleep for. 

• Muscle Tension: Knots of tension in your shoulders, neck, or jaw.

• Headaches: A persistent throbbing or dull ache that refuses to budge.

• Anxiety & Depression: Feeling a heavy weight pressing down on your chest, accompanied by feelings of despair or hopelessness.

• Withdrawal from Social Interactions: Preferring to retreat rather than face the world.

• Loss of Concentration & Focus: Struggling to stay on task, with thoughts scattering.

• Increased Use of Substances: Alcohol, tobacco, or other substances as a means of coping or escapism.

• Flare-Ups of Existing Health Conditions: Conditions like eczema or acne flaring up in response to heightened stress levels.

Stress management techniques:

Just as stress comes in various forms, so do the techniques for managing it. Whether it's a quick, five-minute fix or a two-week retreat in the Maldives, there's a stress management approach out there for everyone. The key is discovering what works best for you and integrating it into your daily routine.

Here are several strategies to consider:

• Mindfulness & Meditation: Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can bring you back to the present moment and lower stress levels. Additionally, journaling your feelings and expressing gratitude has been shown to improve resilience to stress and overall mental health.

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in activities you enjoy to get your body moving daily can help alleviate stress. Whether it's running, cycling, or mind-body practices like yoga or tai chi, exercise promotes the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. It also helps reduce muscle tension and improve sleep quality.

• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet, prioritising sufficient sleep, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake can regulate stress levels and enhance overall wellbeing. Proper nutrition and rest are crucial for the body to effectively manage stress. Additionally, exposing yourself to sunlight upon waking can help balance your circadian rhythm and cortisol levels.

• Social Support: Seeking support from friends and family offers emotional reassurance and practical assistance during stressful times. Sharing concerns and feelings with loved ones can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness.

• Time Management & Prioritisation: Learning to manage time effectively and prioritise tasks can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and anxiety. Breaking tasks into smaller steps and setting realistic goals can make daunting tasks more manageable. Using journals and diaries designed for organisation can be especially helpful.

• Relaxation Techniques: Engaging in activities you enjoy, such as reading, spending time in nature, aromatherapy, or receiving massage treatments, can promote relaxation. Experiment with different activities to discover what brings you joy and tranquillity.

Best Supplements for Anxiety & Stress Relief:

Finding the right supplement to support your stress can be a stress in itself! With shelves filled with promises and potions, finding what you need can feel overwhelming. 

However, this is where we come to the rescue, as we've sifted through the noise to bring you the tried-and-tested stress busters that not only have our stamp of approval, but also come with rave reviews from our community. 

Below are the best supplements for anxiety and stress relief. 

Terranova Magnesium Complex Capsules:

If you haven’t caught wind of our magnesium obsession yet, you must've been hiding under a rock! Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, yet, 44% of stressed individuals are deficient in this vital mineral. It’s a vicious cycle, as stress depletes magnesium, and magnesium deficiency heightens stress. But don’t worry, as our Terranova Magnesium Complex is here to break that cycle and restore harmony.

Our magnesium features fully reacted bisglycinate chelate for optimal absorption, paired with botanicals and phytonutrients for enhanced benefits. Pyridoxal 5-phosphate, the active B6 form, teams up with magnesium to support hormonal balance and calm the nervous system.

But wait, there's more! Green oat seeds provide extra TLC for your nerves, pumpkin seeds kickstart energy levels, and nettle leaf sprinkles some love on your vascular system. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! With our magnesium by your side, you'll combat stress, ease anxiety, and improve overall wellbeing. 

Magnesium is one of the first places to look when dealing with stress, as low levels are significantly impacting our mental health. So, no time like the present to board the magnesium train, your body and your sanity will thank you for it!

Terranova B Complex with Vitamin C

Running on empty? No worries! Our Terranova B Complex with Vitamin C is here to power you through those blue days or demanding schedules.

What is our vitamin B complex good for? Well, packed with methylated B vitamins (the best for of B Vitamins for absorption), these little gems are like an espresso shot for your body without the shakes or crash, they’re active and ready to ignite your system. Not only do these B vitamins play a role in supporting your nervous system and stress response, but they're also the brain's best friend, especially folate, a multitasker in psychological processes.

But what sets our B Complex apart from the rest? The Magnifood blend. This magical mix of phytonutrients and botanicals designed to turbocharge the absorption and effectiveness of each nutrient. Think of it as a support squad for your vitamins!

And let's not forget about Vitamin C, the guardian angel for your adrenals, the only glands in your body that store vitamin C, relying on it to keep them plump and ready for action.

Inside this blend, ashwagandha reigns supreme as a stress-buster, backed by rhodiola and Siberian Ginseng for anxiety relief and resilience against mental and physical stress.

But that's not all! Our B Complex supports your liver too, thanks to alfalfa, parsley, and dandelion supporting your body’s natural detoxification processes. Say goodbye to fatigue and hello to vitality with Terranova B Complex with Vitamin C.

Natroceutics Bio-Shoden Ashwagandha

You're probably familiar with adaptogens like ashwagandha, known for their ability to help the body rebound from tough days. This ancient herb has been hailed for centuries as a nervine tonic for longevity, vitality, and overall wellbeing. But its real magic lies in its ability to keep your stress hormones in check, ensuring you stay cool, calm, and collected no matter what life throws your way.

But Bio-Shoden Ashwagandha takes it up a notch. This isn't your average ashwagandha extract, it’s a scientifically proven, world-class bioactive powerhouse. With an impressive 35% withanolide glycoside content, each 120mg capsule delivers potent and safe stress relief. Supported by extensive clinical trials and studies, Bio-Shoden sets the gold standard for quality and effectiveness.

What's the result? Lowered cortisol levels, restored adrenal function, reduced anxiety, mood swings, and depression—all while saying goodbye to fatigue and hello to boundless energy. It's like a breath of fresh air for your body and mind, offering fast acting and substantial benefits that you can feel from day one. So, bid farewell to stress and welcome serenity with Natroceutics Bio-Shoden Ashwagandha.

Conclusion:

As we come to the end of this journey through the world of stress, we want to leave you with a gentle reminder: you are not alone. Stress has a way of creeping into our lives, wreaking havoc on our peace of mind and confidence. It can make even the smallest tasks seem impossible and leave us feeling overwhelmed. But here's the thing, there is no shame in feeling stressed. How you navigate through it is as unique as you are, and no one has the right to judge your coping mechanisms.

Our aim with these blogs is simple: to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to reclaim control over your health and wellbeing. If stress is casting a shadow over your days, know that there are steps you can take to find relief. From mindfulness and exercise to supplements that have been tried and tested, we're here to offer solutions that work.

So, take a deep breath and know that this is your moment to rise above stress's grasp. You are a radiant, resilient soul capable of overcoming any challenge that comes your way. With the right support and a dash of determination, you can step into a life filled with vitality and abundance. Embrace this journey, and remember, you’ve got this.