5 Supplements to Manage Stress

From work to finances to personal relationships, we all know that stress is an inevitable part of our lives. And while experiencing some level of stress is normal, chronic stress can show up as fatigue, anxiety, and muscle pain, and over time could even increase your risk of chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

While there are lots of stress management techniques and coping skills for anxiety out there, eating a balanced diet and adding supplements to your routine can also combat stress. Here are some supplements that have been shown to keep stress at bay.

1. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an herb that’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to promote physical and mental health. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, and improve symptoms of anxiety and depression — which is why it’s a key ingredient in some supplements, including phytisone. It’s also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

2. Melatonin

Stress can cause interrupted sleep throughout the night, which can prevent you from entering the deeper, restorative sleep stages that allow the body to repair and restore itself. In particular, the REM (rapid eye movement) sleep stage helps with mood regulation and memory — and missing out on it can affect your stress levels.

Melatonin helps maintain the body's normal circadian rhythms. Research indicates taking melatonin is effective at helping you sleep because it decreases the amount of time needed to fall asleep, helps you stay asleep, and enhances the depth of sleep.

3. Adaptogens

Adaptogens are a natural, non-toxic herb that stimulates your body’s stress response system to increase stress resistance. They can be found as herbs, plants, or mushrooms that help your body better manage stress by reducing cortisol, a stress hormone that affects your mood. Adding adaptogens to your routine may help you feel calmer and happier, and get better sleep.

4. L-Glutamine

When you experience high levels of stress, both emotional and physical, your body might not be making enough L-Glutamine. L-Glutamine is an amino acid that helps optimize your gut health by supporting your intestinal lining. When its levels are low, your gut and intestinal health can suffer, so it’s important to keep it up to feel at your best.

5. NAC

Short for N-Acetylcysteine, NAC is an amino acid that helps increase your glutathione levels. Glutathione is critical for overall detoxification and anti-inflammation support. It also benefits your respiratory symptoms, helping you breathe easier.

It’s obvious we can’t just cut stress out of our lives. Luckily, paired with regular movement, there are lots of supplements and treatments available today that can help curb chronic stress. Modern Age offers a full line-up of supplements designed to help you feel better from within, plus treatments to lower your stress and boost your overall mood. Start with an Aging Wellness Assessment to learn about your body on a deeper level and find out which of our treatments best suits your needs.