Dear Theresa,
What works best to prevent panic attacks?
Thank you,
Anxious
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Dear Anxious and Waiting,
Panic attack is the result of our culture’s focus on do more and be more. This mindset makes it hard to let down our guard so anxiety rules our thinking.
Anxiety is the fear of allowing the flow of life and trusting in our own safety. When you develop the ability to tap into the things that make you feel safe you will be able to avoid panic attacks.
We often hear about the benefits of meditation. One of the best uses is to calm our fears and connect with our higher power (whatever that means for you).
The more often we can breath through our fear, we can increase our ability to center and trust ourselves. Fear is merely excitement without breathe. When we can breath through the fear, we tap into our own sense of calm and well-being.
Nutritionally there are things you can do to reduce the incidents of anxiety. Digestive problems often go hand-in-hand with anxiety. Improving the diet you eat will definitely reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. Try reducing or eliminating these foods from your diet to affect your panic attacks:
Caffeine – Caffeine has been recorded in research studies to increase the intensity and duration of panic attacks in person with an anxiety disorder. Cutting back on caffeine can improve your symptoms. Please note, eliminating caffeine abruptly can cause symptoms of irritability, difficulty sleeping, headaches, anxiety and mood swings.
Alcohol – Although alcohol is known believed to relaxing, it causes sugar fluctuations and lactic acid buildup in the blood. Both of these conditions can cause an
Refined Sugar – Refined sugar is well known for its effect on mood disorders. The quick rush of sugar and insulin into the bloodstream causing hypoglycemia and “sugar crashes”. A diet filled with these types of ups and downs will cause more disturbances in people who are prone to anxiety or panic.
By maintaining a healthy balance in your life and your food will create a balanced mind that can handle the uncertainty of our tumultuous lifestyles.
Theresa
The information provided in this column is based on thorough studies in Nutrition, Theresa’s experience as a Health Coach and personal experience. Any recommendations made about nutrition, supplements or lifestyle should be discussed between you and your doctor because each person has their own medical needs that are beyond the scope of this column. The information provided here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice, or delay in seeking it, because of something you have read in this column.
