See also Depression; Stress.

Everyone experiences anxiety—an unpleasant emotional state that is a direct response to stress. Closely associated with fear, anxiety can come on suddenly or gradually over a period of time. Lasting from a few seconds to years, anxiety can range in intensity from "butterflies in the stomach" to a full-blown panic attack complete with shortness of breath, increased heartbeat, sweating, and dizziness.

A certain level of anxiety is normal, actually important, as it appropriately cautions us to dangerous situations around us. Most people are able to handle anxiety, keeping it within a normal realm. Some people, however, are overwhelmed with the fear and panic that arises from anxiety. When anxiety occurs at inappropriate times, or lasts so long that it interferes with a person’s normal activities, it is considered a disorder.

Common symptoms of anxiety disorder may include restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, and insomnia. Worry generated by a person with an anxiety disorder is often general in nature and difficult to control. Common worries, which are taken to an inappropriately intense level, often involve health, money, and work.

Sudden anxiety, fear, or stress results in the release of adrenaline, which puts the body on alert—ready for "fight or flight." Quickened heartbeat, dilated pupils, and shortness of breath are physical changes that occur almost instantaneously and intensely. Additionally, the blood rushes from the digestive system to the muscles, where it may be needed in response to the need to possibly "fight." A continued pattern of this adrenaline rush can result in damaging effects to the digestive system, especially the large intestine and colon.

Both anxiety and stress can be controlled through behavioral therapy, breathing techniques, meditation, and visualization. In addition, it’s important to keep your friendly bacteria, especially lactobacilli, strong. In sufficient numbers, lactobacilli can help encourage a relaxed state. You see, during fermentation, lactobacilli release tryptophan, which produces the calming neurotransmitter seratonin. Tryptophan is found in milk, which is why drinking a glass of warm milk is a traditional cure for insomnia. The tryptophan in the milk has a relaxing, calming effect. True yogurt and other cultured milk products contain even higher levels of tryptophan, and high quality lactobacteria supplements contain the most.

While friendly lactobacteria may not directly alleviate anxiety and stress, its release of tryptophan (and resulting seratonin), may help to encourage a relaxed state. Taking high-quality supplemental lactobacilli can certainly be a positive step in dealing with anxiety.

RECOMMENDED PROBIOTIC REGIMEN

Take 1 capsule each of L. acidophilus and B. bifidum (or 1/2 teaspoon each powder), along with 1/2 teaspoon L. bulgaricus powder mixed in 6 to 8 ounces unchilled filtered water, two times daily. May be increased to 2 capsules L. acidophilus and B. bifidum (or 1 teaspoon powder), along with 1 teaspoon L. bulgaricus, three times daily.

Instead of the above regimen, take 1 combination capsule that contains all three super strains in an oil-matrix carrier, once daily.

NOTE: The information contained on this site is based on the training, personal experiences and research of the author, Natasha Trenev. It is intended for educational purposes, and is not meant to diagnose, prescribe, or replace medical care. Mention of any research organization or individual researcher should in no way be construed as an endorsement of this site or of any of the techniques therein. Because each person and situation are unique, the author urges the reader to check with a qualified health professional before using any procedure in which there is any question of appropriateness. It is a sign of wisdom, not cowardice, to seek a second or third opinion.