A friend schooled me on this recently and I keep going back over the details. Take a peek:
Finding ways to increase GABA naturally to be less stressed out might be an alternative for some people, instead of using medications like benzodiazapines for anxiety.
Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, and Ativan are medications commonly prescribed for anxiety issues and other mental health conditions.
One of the reasons these prescription medications are so effective at reducing anxiety is because they are strong GABA activators.
While there is certainly a place for benzodiazepines, especially for patients who struggle with anxiety disorders, they should only be used in the short-term as they can be extremely habit forming, addictive and difficult to quit because of painful symptoms of withdrawal.
Unfortunately, a 2019 study found that the number of benzodiazepine prescriptions in the U.S. increased by about 50 percent between the 10 year period from 2005 to 2015, with most of the prescriptions coming from family physicians.
Some natural ways to increase our GABA include:
- Cardiovascular exercises like running, brisk walking, swimming, bicycling
- Yoga and meditation
- Supplements like green tea, taurine, and magnesium, B6 and zinc
- Foods like yogurts, citrus fruits, walnuts and almonds, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, lentils, brown rice, shrimp and halibut
I also love the supplement called Adaptiv. The ADPATIV capsules combine specially selected essential oils with clinically studied botanicals to create a powerful soothing, supportive, relaxing formula. Lavender,Coriander, Fennel, and Wild Orange essential oils are included for their mood-boosting and tension-reducing effects. Scelectium, GABA, and Ahiflower are also in the ADAPTIV capsules.
I take one capsule when I am feeling the familiar feelings of stress and anxiousness coming. They also help me sleep well. i actually love the entire line of Adaptiv products all for different reasons and ways to use when life shows up.
Not really sure how botanicals and essentials oil work? Enjoy this free ebook that breaks it down easily.
