How can Vitamin C, B complex, Calcium and Magnesium supplements help your stress?
One key component to being a caregiver is to is manage your stress levels. If you are caring for loved ones and are overwhelmed physically and emotionally, the stress can lead to chronic illness.
Physiologically, chronic stress can generate changes in immune function, hormonal changes, and biochemical reactions. These changes then influence body functions in the digestive tract, cardiovascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems. A wide variety of problems, such as headaches, backaches, chronic infections, even heart disease may result from chronic stress issues.
Research continues to link stress to more and more symptoms and diseases, both acute (new) and chronic (long term). Research also shows certain supplements can help the body adapt to stress more efficiently. Of course the best way to get vitamins and minerals is through food, but for stress, supplements are an excellent addition.
Vitamin C may be the most essential anti-stress nutrient. Vitamin C is rapidly utilized and minimally stored in the body. Therefore, it needs to be taken throughout the day. Daily usage is 2 to 4 grams daily, however 8 grams may be used for extreme stress.
Calcium and Magnesium also lead the anti-stress list. Magnesium (400-600mg) is a tranquilizing mineral that helps balance the nervous system and support heart function. Calcium (1200-1500mg) is vital to nerve transmission as well as regular heartbeat and immune function. It aids in both relaxation and muscle function.
If you are under chronic stress, then the acid in your stomach is most likely low, so taking magnesium and calcium before bed helps manage that stomach acid. For acute (just happened), or early stress, these alkaline minerals taken before each meal can also be a beneficial antacid.
An excellent B complex that is yeast free and gluten free is also helpful. B complex should be taken several times daily with a meal and before dark. Take B complex before dark because it can be stimulating and you want to let the mind and body relax toward bedtime
Stress for caregivers is inevitable, but adding certain supplements can help reduce it. Vitamin C, B complex, calcium and magnesium are supplements that you can take in order to care for your loved one without suffering unhealthy body functions yourself.
NOTE: Do not start a supplement regime if you are taking medication prescribed by your doctor without discussing it first with a qualified professional. Your doctor or a qualified nutritionist will help you avoid interactions. For example, certain vitamin supplements may negatively interact with blood thinners like Coumadin.
Disclaimer: The material in this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace, nor does it replace, consulting with a physician, lawyer, accountant, financial planner or other qualified professional.
Contributing editor Nancy Gerstle has a B.S. in Holistic Nutrition. She works at Advance Nutrition in Langhorne, PA. www.advance-nutrition.com. For more about Nancy and Advance Nutrition, go to the Contributors Page page.
