Vigour – Health and Sports Nutrition

GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) is a psychological condition that is characterized by the exaggerated worry about everyday life events such as occupation, family life, health, business, money etc. The worries are often unrealistic, making the life of a GAD sufferer a constant state of anxiety and fear. If left untreated, GAD may interfere with daily functioning, family life, professional life, social activities and relationships.

The typical symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder include an unrealistic view of problems, excessive tension, irritability, mood swings, restlessness, extreme fatigue, rapid heartbeats, headache, sweating, difficulty concentrating, frequent urination, constipation, trembling, dryness of mouth, muscle tension, muscle aches, nausea, indigestion and insomnia.

There are numerous factors that may lead to GAD. Research shows that family history plays a vital role in increasing the likelihood that an individual will develop generalized anxiety disorder. Certain unpleasant events such as divorce, the death of a loved one, unemployment, demotion, loss in a business and abuse may also lead to GAD. Abnormal levels of chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in the brain can also lead to anxiety.

Treatment for generalized anxiety disorder includes a combination of medication therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy.

GAD and other related psychological disorders can be avoided by consuming healthy, balanced diets, spending time with family members and friends, having an interesting hobby, participating in the social activities and consuming a dietary supplement that provides mood uplift and helps during times of stress.

BetterYou Stress Away has been formulated with a combination of naturally sourced herbs, food-sourced ingredients and minerals to relax mind, promote a sense of control, and relax nervous and tense muscles. This supplement helps during times of stress and anxiety, and helps increase oxygen uptake within the body. The non drowsy formulation increases mental clarity, calms the nerves and reduces the symptoms of anxiety.

Mental disorders refer to a wide range of medical conditions and diseases that affect the brain. They usually interfere with the everyday life of a sufferer and deprive them of their confidence, family life and personality.

Mental disorders include depression, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders such as phobias, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive-disorder, and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.

There are numerous factors that can contribute to the development of mental disorders. They include family history, life experiences such as a history of abuse, stress and anxiety, traumatic brain injury, biological factors, use of illegal drugs, excessive alcohol consumption and diseases. Moreover, a woman’s exposure to toxic chemicals and viruses during pregnancy also makes a foetus susceptible to the mental disorders. Medication therapy and counselling can help mental patients to regain control of their lives.

It also makes a good idea for them to take a dietary supplement that helps maintain the health of brain. Haliborange Omega 3 Fish Oil is a popular brand that contains omega-3 nutrients such as DHA, which may help maintain healthy brain function. Not only does it promote a healthy brain development, but it also helps maintain concentration levels.

The delicious fruit flavoured chewy capsules also contain vitamins A, C, D & E, which are beneficial to brain health, immune system, and healthy growth, healthy skin and eyes. Haliborange Omega 3 Fish Oil does not contain hydrogenated fat and is free from wheat, gluten and yeast. Take one or two chewy capsules a day. Do not exceed the recommended intake.

Passiflora incarnata, also known as the passionflower or passion vine, is a perennial climbing vine that belongs to the family Passifloraceae of the plants. It makes an effective traditional ingredient with relaxing and calming properties. The above-ground parts of passionflower are used for medicinal purposes. Numerous researches have revealed that this amazing herb helps increase levels of a chemical known as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the nervous system. GABA helps reduce the symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression as it lowers the activity of some brain chemicals that are believed to trigger numerous psychological problems.

Passionflower is also used for treating insomnia and other sleeping disorders. It makes an excellent remedy to treat gastrointestinal problems related with nervousness or anxiety. It is also believed that passion vine helps reduce inflammation and pain. Moreover, it helps reduce the symptoms of menopause, haemorrhoids, skin burns, asthma, high blood pressure, palpitation, seizures, hysteria, irritability, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and tenderness of the muscles.

There are numerous supplements on the market that make use of Passiflora incarnata in their formulation. NatraCalm Passiflora is a popular herbal brand that provides the symptomatic relief of nervous tension and the strain and stress of everyday life. It is a natural licensed product containing passiflora that offers calming and soothing effects, which allow the users to regain control and put their irrational fears into perspective. The good thing about NatraCalm is that it is non addictive and non drowsy. Take one tablet 3 times a day with meals.

Sleep deprivation is a common condition among adults in which one may find it difficult to fall or stay asleep. It can cause daytime sleepiness, fatigue, tiredness, lack of concentration, clumsiness and weight gain. Sleep deprivation has negative effects on the health of brain and cognitive function. According to a recent study, a chronic sleep-restricted state may lead to type-2 diabetes.

The physiological effects of sleep deprivation include hand tremors, aching muscles, bags under eyes, bloodshot eyes, memory lapses, irritability, confusion, hallucinations, headache, increased blood pressure, obesity and rapid involuntary rhythmic eye movement.

There are numerous factors that may lead to sleep deprivation. They include anxiety, tension, depression, chronic pain, obstructive airway disorder, nasal problems and many more. Sleep deprivation can temporarily be treated with sleeping pills and anti-depressants. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking and limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption can also prove helpful in this regard.

It also makes a good idea to use a supplement that helps improve the quality of sleep and relieves a poor sleep pattern. Bio Health GOOD NIGHT is an herbal medicinal product that one can use without the fear of addiction. It makes use of sedatives such as Hops, Vervian, Valerian, Passiflora and Wild Lettuce in its formulation. These plants sedatives are known to induce sleep naturally. For example, Valerian root contains many different constituents that help relieve insomnia, anxiety, depression and other nervous conditions. The herbal ingredients are from non-threatened species or cultivated plants. You should take 2 tablets 30 minutes before bedtime to combat sleep disturbances.

There are some common misconceptions about diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract. The most common myth about ulcer is that it is mainly caused by the consumption of spicy foods. It is also believed that stress and depression play an important role in the development of this disease. However, a recent research has proved that this is not the case.

The majority of stomach ulcers are caused either by use of pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs or by infection with a unique bacterium known as Helicobacter Pylori. Most medication-induced ulcers can be treated with antacids, stomach-protective medications and avoidance of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Most bacteria-related cases can be cured with a combination of antibiotics and dietary habits changes. Although spicy foods, fast foods and depression may aggravate ulcer symptoms in many people, yet they do not cause ulcer.

Certain dietary supplements on the market can help to maintain the health of gastrointestinal tract especially stomach. FSC One a Day Garlic Gems are capsules containing an odourless garlic extract that helps maintain the health of digestive as well as cardiovascular system. They are small, easy to swallow capsules that promote a healthy stomach. You should take one capsule per day, preferably with a meal or just before bedtime. Another good thing about FSC is that it does not make use of artificial preservatives, flavours and colours. Moreover, it is gluten free, yeast free, sugar free, wheat free, corn free, and dairy free. However, it is important to remember that garlic may interact with some forms of medication particularly anticoagulant drugs.

Anxiety can be defined as an unpleasant and unrealistic feeling of doubt or worry. Anxiety disorder is common among women and men all around the globe. It is often accompanied by the physical symptoms such as irritability, unusual tiredness, disturbed sleep and lack of concentration. There are different types of anxiety disorder such as phobias, OCD, PTSD, agoraphobia etc.

Severe anxiety disorders may interfere with the ability of an individual to live normally and can cause considerable suffering. There are several approaches that help relieve anxiety. Medications such as those containing alprazolam, citalopram, escitalopram or resperidone are often prescribed to patients. However, it is important to remember that medications are used to relieve anxiety or reduce the symptoms of depression and they should not be considered a cure on their own. Rather, they facilitate patients to concentrate on counselling.

Behaviour therapy helps people to understand the reasons behind the stress or anxiety and develop techniques to manage it. Behaviour therapy is conducted by a counsellor, behaviour therapist or psychologist.

Consumption of foods high in B vitamins such as green leafy vegetables, eggs, seeds, nuts, brewer’s yeast, barley and wheat germ helps relieve anxiety and its symptoms. It also makes a good idea to take a dietary supplement on a regular basis that contains vitamin B-complex in its formulation.

Higher Nature Super Nutrition Multivitamins is a true A-Z multivitamin and mineral formula that includes vitamins B plus trace minerals in its formulation. The B vitamins are in a form similar to food, which help relieve the anxiety symptoms and absorb maximum energy from food.

Not only does this supplement help replace all essential nutrients lost from the diet through cooking and environmental factors such as alcohol, smoking, pollution and today’s demanding lifestyle, but is also ideal for busy lives and compromised digestion. It is available in pleasantly flavoured, easy to swallow tablets with natural vanilla.

SAD or Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that mostly occurs in the winter months. This is why this disorder is also known as “Winter Depression”. The symptoms of disease, however, are often relieved in the spring or summer season.

The exact cause of seasonal effective disorder is not known. According to many scientists, the disease can occur due to the lower temperatures and reduction in natural light during the winter season. A brain chemical known as melatonin may be influenced by the less exposure to light, which in turn often leads to SAD. However, it is inconclusive and a lot of research is still needed in this regard.

The typical symptoms of winter depression include irritability, fatigue, tiredness, lack of interest, lack of concentration, mood swings especially in the evening, lack of energy, overeating and weight gain, daytime sleepiness and increased sleep, and muscle pain.

SAD can effectively be treated with the help of antidepressant medication, psychological therapy and bright light therapy. The latter mode of treatment makes use of a special light box or lamp that provides an excellent source of light to a sufferer. Bright light therapy is quite effective in reducing the depressive symptoms. However, once the treatment is stopped, the symptoms may return quite quickly.

People with seasonal effective disorder are also advised to consume diets that are rich in vitamin B. B vitamins especially vitamin B1, B6 and B12 help relive symptoms and absorb energy from foods.

It also makes a good idea to use a dietary supplement that contains B vitamins in its formulation. Higher Nature Super Nutrition Multivitamins is an A-Z multivitamin and mineral formula that includes vitamin B-complex and trace minerals such as manganese and molybdenum. Not only does it help relieve the symptoms of SAD, but it also makes an ideal choice for compromised digestion and absorption.

Anxiety can be defined as an unpleasant condition of doubt and worry that interferes with one’s ability to live normally. Anxiety is not just related to the psychological disturbance; rather it is often accompanied by the physical symptoms as well. Common physical symptoms may include dryness of mouth, trembling of hands, fatigue, tiredness, lack of concentration, insomnia, lack or excess of appetite, restlessness, irritability and muscle retention. In most cases, these physical symptoms only appear if anxiety lasts for more than one month.

Anxiety may occur at any age, affecting up to 6% of the population each year. In this condition, one unnecessarily worries about his or her health, personal relationships, financial issues, work and daily chores. This, in turn, starts affecting the person’s normal life because his or her level of anxiety is often far greater than the situation warrants.

It is important to keep in your mind that anxiety may occur due to an underlying physical disorder, such as an inner ear disorder, thyroid disease, brain trauma, emphysema, infection, asthma or heart problems.

Anxiety can also be triggered by the alcohol consumption, smoking, prescription drugs, and illicit substances. In order to avoid anxiety, one should quit smoking, reduce alcohol intake and reduce caffeine intake. Moreover, one should also perform a regular physical activity because cardio or strength training exercises can help improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. Spending time with a pet or friends also help relieve or prevent anxiety.

There are certain diet hints that may help prevent anxiety. One should prefer drinking fruit juices, decaffeinated tea and plenty of water over sodas, soft drinks, alcohol and coffee. Consumption of foods high in B vitamins such as leafy greens, eggs, wheat germ, seeds, oyster and brewer’s yeast is effective in reducing the symptoms of anxiety.

It also makes a good idea to include a multivitamin supplement in your daily dietary routine. Comvita Been Pollen Multivitamin Granules is a popular brand on the market that contains essential vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids in its formulation. It makes a “Natural Multi-Vitamin” because it is collected by the honeybees from the pastures and forests of New Zealand.

Not only does it contain vitamin B1 and vitamin B3 which contribute to the normal function of the nervous system, but it also contains iron that is essential for the flow of oxygen throughout the body and protein that increases muscle mass.

Although it is important to get a professional treatment consisting of medication therapy and psychological counselling in case of depression, yet there are certain things you can do to ease the symptoms of depression.

There is a connection between a healthy mind and food. A healthy and balanced diet makes an important part of an overall treatment plan. Make sure that you build your diet around plenty of legumes, green leafy vegetables, pulses, lean meats, fruits and whole grains to boost your emotional health. These foods contain vitamin B-12 and omega-3 fatty acids that are known to ease mood changes such as depression.

Make sure that you drink less caffeine to improve the symptoms of depression. Consuming too much coffee on a regular basis can make you anxious, nervous, moody, or jittery. So cutting back on coffee, soda, chocolate and tea can make an overall positive change in your mood. Another benefit of consuming less caffeine is that it helps you sleep better at night.

Avoid drugs and alcohol because they can slow or prevent recovery from anxiety and depression. Another disadvantage of alcohol consumption is that it can make your depression worse and interfere with the medicines you take for anxiety and depression.

In order to reduce the symptoms of depression, make sure that you take a dietary supplement which uses omega-3 fatty acids in its formulation. Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil High Strength Fish Oil is a popular brand on the market that uses omega-3 fish oil, vitamins D & E. It is a rich source of the valuable long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA that are essential for mental health. Moreover, this supplement also promotes supple and flexible joints. Vitamins D and E promote healthy bones, skin, hair and nails.

High levels of alcohol intake may make you vulnerable to physical illnesses, psychological disorders and social distress. Moreover, too much consumption of alcohol has a disastrous effect on your vital organs especially liver. The increasing trend of alcohol consumption is a matter of great concern for the religious societies and is a serious public health problem across all age groups.

Alcohol dependence or alcoholism leads to a number of health problems such as liver cirrhosis, heart failure, depression, anxiety, tremor and damage to the CNS (central nervous system). As far as the social drawbacks of alcoholism are concerned, it begins to take priority over other social activities especially education and professional life, thus becoming a compulsion.

In many drinkers, tolerance against drunkenness develops with the passage of time. Therefore, it takes more alcohol to produce the desired results. This, in turn, accelerates the deterioration of liver and other vital organs.

Current safe drinking guidelines suggest that a woman should not drink more than two units of alcohol per day. For men, no more than three units per day are recommended. It is also a good idea to have at least three drink-free days a week.

You can also occasionally replace your alcohol drink with an energy drink to avoid the harmful effects of alcohol. Nutrisport Energy Boost 4:1 Summer Fruits is a carbohydrate plus protein drink with electrolytes. It helps replace body fluids and conserves muscle glycogen. It also contains fat, sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Moreover, this supplement does not make use of nuts, soya, wheat, meat products and gluten in its formulation.