Every person’s health story is different. The information below explains common causes and contributing factors for this issue, but it is not a one‑size‑fits‑all prescription.
As a qualified naturopath practising in Adelaide’s CBD, I take the time to understand your unique circumstances, use targeted testing when needed, and design a personalised care plan so you can feel and function at your best.
Anxiety
As we all have learned during these past many years, you may be unable to control your environment. But you can manage the impact stress has on your brain. In Australia, the impact of COVID-19 has resulted in a lingering mental health crisis.
In response to stress, your adrenal system produces cortisol to allow you to deal with the stressor at hand. This is also known as the fight or flight mechanism. If cortisol levels remain high beyond the initial stress, it may lead to a range of symptoms.
Your rational thinking may become less logical as you move into a coping rather than thriving mode. The mental health goal is to restore resilience and coping even when the stressors are ongoing.
When anxiety is present, there are measurable changes in hormones, neurotransmitters, mineral balance, pH, and inflammatory markers in the body. Those who have had COVID are also more likely to have inflammatory changes in the brain.
When under stress, the immune system is less able to respond to the hormonal controls for inflammation. Inflammation plays a role in many diseases, such as heart disease, asthma, autoimmunity, insulin resistance, weight gain over the waist area, loss of muscle mass, depression, and accelerated ageing.
Warning signs of anxiety during prolonged stress (Adrenal Depletion)
- Racing heart / palpitations
- Poor sleep pattern
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Panic attacks
- Indigestion
- Sugar cravings
- Reduced recovery from exercise
- Mood swings
Screening tests
Saliva cortisol and DHEA- basic stress hormones are checked four times over 24 hours to determine if your pattern is unbalanced.
Copper/zinc- blood test or Hair Mineral Analysis- copper may be a major contributing factor to anxiety and insomnia. Low zinc levels are associated with anxiety. Zinc is involved in the regulation of dopamine and GABA.
Blood tests to consider- CRP, Homocysteine (for inflammation), fasting blood sugars and insulin. MTHFR screening, as these genes are associated with anxiety.
Diet
For blood sugar stability, avoid high GI carbs- bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, sugars
High Glutamate foods are associated with anxiety. These include mushrooms, peas, and parmesan cheese.
Herbal medicine and specific nutrients offer an antidote for anxiety.
An individualised treatment plan will be formulated to meet your unique needs.
