Stress may be an ever-present element of modern life, but managing it is vital for your wellbeing. When stress goes uncontrolled, it can lower your overall quality of life and even damage your mental and physical health. If stress is something you struggle with, taking certain supplements can be a good way to promote relaxation and help you deal with the difficulties of everyday life.
What to know before taking supplements
Before you begin taking supplements for relaxation, consulting with your doctor or another health professional is a must. Many supplements can interfere with medications. It’s extremely important to check with your doctor so this doesn’t happen with any of your prescriptions. You’ll also need to confirm the supplements you’re interested in won’t have dangerous side effects, and that you’re taking them in the appropriate dosage.
Don’t rely on supplements to do all the work of stress relief. Exercise, a nutritious diet, and restful sleep are key, too, along with proper medical care. Your doctor will help you understand whether supplements fit in with the physical and mental health care that you’re already receiving or need to receive.
Vitamins and minerals
Here are four of the most common vitamins and mineral supplements that can contribute to better relaxation:
B vitamins: According to U.S. News & World Report, numerous studies indicate taking B vitamins can help increase your energy and boost your mood. In addition to supplements, B vitamins are also present in leafy greens, chickpeas, eggs, and many other foods.
Vitamin D: Medical News Today notes some studies have linked vitamin D to a reduction in depression and anxiety. Eating fish and getting plenty of sun are good ways to get more vitamin D beyond taking supplements.
Magnesium: This important mineral supplement may help to reduce anxiety, although more study is needed, per Medical News Today. It’s also present in foods like whole wheat, leafy greens, nuts, and beans.
Multivitamins: A multivitamin supplement usually contains several vitamins and minerals, including potential stress relievers like B vitamins and magnesium. Some studies show anxiety-relieving results for people who take multivitamins.
Other supplements
Supplements often take other forms besides vitamins and minerals, and here are three of them that can help fight stress:
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an herb from India. Per Healthline, multiple studies have shown stress-reduction and mood-enhancing benefits for people who take ashwagandha supplements.
L-theanine: L-theanine is an amino acid that’s found in black or green tea. According to a pair of studies cited by Healthline, taking L-theanine as a supplement or consuming it in a drink can improve sleep quality and lower stress.
Melatonin: Your brain produces this hormone to help you sleep and wake up properly, and it is also available as a supplement. According to U.S. News, additional melatonin may help you fall asleep faster when you’re feeling stressed out.
When taken in consultation with a medical professional and integrated into a healthy lifestyle, supplements could be a good way to make life a little calmer when your job, your family, current events, or anything else is stressing you out.