Stressed or anxious? There are vitamin supplements scientifically proven to help
Me-time and self-care are popular methods to reduce anxiety and stress and focus on mental and physical well-being. For Gen Z and Millennials, this includes spending less time on social media, saying no to social gatherings, and focusing less on the news.1
A GWI survey shows that 44% of people say that their stress and anxiety have worsened because of the global health crisis. “Many people are at peak stress levels and are starting to think differently about their health and how to manage it,” said Willco Janse van Vuuren, Managing Director of Releaf Pharmaceuticals. “In the past, eating healthy and regular exercise was thought to be sufficient, but since COVID-19, people have realised that there is more they can do to improve their overall health and well-being.”
For some, this includes wellness days (a day’s leave from work to recharge). For others, spending more time in nature, getting more sleep, and doing activities that bring enjoyment, are effective in managing their mental well-being.
“Since more people are prioritising their well-being, they are also looking for the support of vitamins and supplements,” Janse van Vuuren added. Vitamin and mineral sales are a testament to this. Since the start of the pandemic, vitamin usage has increased from 36% to 43%.1
The powerful health benefits of supplements2
“There are so many options out there that consumers may find it overwhelming to decide on the right solution for them,” said Janse van Vuuren, a leading South African manufacturer of effective vitamins and supplements. “Health care professionals all say the same thing: Make sure you select a brand that is scientifically proven and does what it claims to do.”
Three supplements that are proven to reduce anxiety and stress
L-theanine3
L-theanine is one of the most common compounds found in green and black teas. It helps to relax the mind, decreases anxiety and stress, and is a key ingredient in a range of high-quality, clinically proven health and wellness supplements that reduce stress and anxiety symptoms.
Saffron4
Revered for its medicinal properties, saffron (also known as the most expensive spice in the world) acts as an antioxidant that improves mood and protects brain cells against stress. Found in mood-boosting supplements, studies show that saffron, in the right dosage, is as effective as some conventional depression treatments.
Cannabidiol (CBD)5, 6
[KOL SURNAME] added that cannabidiol (CBD) is a popular supplement that helps reduce anxiety and stress levels and elevates your mood. It may also affect how the brain responds to serotonin, already present in the body, as too little or no serotonin is linked to depression and anxiety.
“Quality manufactured and thoroughly tested CBD from a credible and trusted manufacturer is safe and does not make you feel high,” assured Janse van Vuuren, addressing the common concern that CBD is a mind-altering substance.
When choosing supplements to stay healthy, reduce anxiety and stress, and boost your mood, remember that not all supplements do what they promise. “Consumers should be wary of extravagant claims, as no supplement can cure anxiety or stress,” Janse van Vuuren said, but there are effective ways to manage it through exercise, mindfulness practices and proven alternative remedies. However, always talk to your GP before using any new supplements.