PANIC
ATTACKS
About Panic
Attacks
Anxiety 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.
Nutrition Facts
& Diet Advice for Panic Attacks
Consider the following nutrition guidelines:
-
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.
Health
Supplements and Panic Attacks
Often, a combination of supplements may help
in alleviating this condition. You may wish to consult a nutritional
therapist for personal advice. Supplements that may be helpful in
alleviating symptoms are shown below:
Recommended
Books
see also:
allergies and food intolerance
hypoglycaemia
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