Any physical, emotional or mental stress has a physical effect on the body. It may increase levels of hormones like adrenalin and cortisone, reduce the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, increase the metabolism, increase levels of free radicals and may reduce the levels of vitamins A, B, C and E.
Some people find that B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E are useful for maintaining health in times of stress.
Chewable Vitamin
Vitamin B1 is a water-soluble vitamin that is a cofactor in the conversion of glucose to other sugars. It helps the body's cells produce energy.
Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin that supports the metabolism of energy and is required in the support of bodily processes involving Vitamin B6, niacin, folate and Vitamin K.
Vitamin B3 is necessary for the metabolism of serotonin - a neurotransmitter that keeps the mind calm.
Vitamin B5 is a water-soluble vitamin which helps the body's cells produce energy. It regulates the functioning of adrenal glands, where stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol are synthesized.
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that performs a wide variety of functions in the body. It helps the body make protein and convert tryptophan into niacin and serotonin. It also helps to produce chemicals like haemoglobin, insulin and infection-fighting antibodies.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that works in tandem with Folate to support cellular replication. Vitamin B12 also synthesises myelin to protect nerve fibres.Vitamin B Complex is a water-soluble vitamin that helps the cells metabolise protein, fat and carbohydrates and produce energy.
Vitamin C is used in the metabolism of stress-related hormones like adrenaline, dopamine and noradrenalin. It is an antioxidant that helps reduce free radicals.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps prevent illness and cancer. It's believed that Vitamin E may help prevent and treat heart disease. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant which is believed to help protect cell membranes against the damaging effects of free radicals.
There is no conclusive evidence that vitamins for stress relief are effective, however it is generally agreed that they would help stressed people to stay calm under emotionally stressful conditions. They do also help meet the body's higher energy and nutrient requirements during stress.
Whilst all of these nutrients and vitamins are said to be good for stress relief, you should not under any circumstances substitute qualified medical advice with information found in this article. The author does not give or purport to give any medical or healthcare advice and is not qualified to do so.