Stress is a normal part of life.  It can be either acute or chronic and can be caused by anything that poses a challenge in life.  This can include jobs, relationships, long term illness, or events.  If left unmanaged it can lead to physical, psychological, and even emotional problems.

Some health care professionals believe that some (acute) stress can be a good thing, but chronic stress is not.  Therefore, our objective should be learning to manage long term stress.  Reducing stress can be achieved via meditation and relaxation techniques, as well as exercise, and the use of dietary supplements.  Read on about how chronic stress affects us physically and mentally.  You may be surprised at the consequences.

Common symptoms and results of stress can include:

• A fast heartbeat
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• A headache
• A stiff neck and/or tight shoulders
• Back pain
• Fast breathing
• Sweating, and sweaty palms
• An upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea

Long Term Stress can Have Physical and Emotional Effects

In healthy people, the nervous system helps maintain a balance between a stress response and relaxation.  However, for some people, this system remains on guard, which makes them unable to relax.  If this situation becomes chronic, a whole variety of physical and emotional stress-related symptoms and illnesses can follow.

Physical Symptoms:

• Accelerated aging
• Decreased immunity
• Heart disease
• Digestive issues
• Hormone imbalances
• Skin issues

Emotional Symptoms:

• Feel cranky and unable to deal with even small problems
• Feel frustrated, lose your temper more often, and yell at others for no reason
• Feel jumpy or tired all the time
• Find it hard to focus on tasks
• Worry too much about small things
• Feel that you are missing out on things because you can””””””””t act quickly
• Imagine that bad things are happening or about to happen

Read more in our article
The Physiological Effects of Stress

 

Products to Help Combat the Negative Effects of Stress

While stress seems to be unavoidable these days there are supplements that can help support you physically and mentally.

Calm Thoughts
Supports Calm Focus

This formula addresses the multiple, interdependent body systems that are involved with stress, including neuromodulation, energy generation, the adrenals, and the musculoskeletal system without sacrificing the clarity and focus you need to function effectively.

5-HTP
Supports Normal Sleep Cycles

Clinical studies have shown that 5HTP (L-5-Hydroxytryptophan) increases the amount and availability of serotonin, which helps support your healthy moods, eating habits, and sleep cycles that are generally affected when under stress.

SAMe
Supports a Positive Mood

Studies have shown that SAMe helps support a positive outlook due to its affect on the synthesis and production of mood-boosting neurotransmitters. People in the U.S. have been using SAM-e to help treat depression or to preserve emotional well-being.

Vitamin B-50 Complex
Supports Energy Production

Research has found that a B complex vitamin can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and stress that many people suffer from, such as depression, irritability, and improper nerve function, while helping to support the immune system.

Melatonin
Supports Normal Sleep Patterns

Melatonin is a neurohormone that is naturally produced in humans by the pineal gland. In addition to its hormonal and sleep regulating actions, melatonin has been shown to have strong antioxidant effects and may also help strengthen the immune system.