Nutritionists believe that the increased consumption of sugar-rich processed foods, carbonated drinks and caffeinated beverages (not to mention the need to pack in as many activities as we can in a single day) has contribute to an increase in panic attacks.
Characterised by a sudden onset of intense fear, breathlessness, a racing pulse, palpitations and spells of dizziness, a panic attack can last between 30 seconds to an hour.
Adding the following foods to your diet will help reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks:
*Almonds are loaded with zinc which regulates the production of mood-balancing hormones, they also contain substantial amounts of iron (the primary component of red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout your body); iron and red blood cell deficiency contributes to fatigue, increasing your vulnerability to anxiety and stress.
*Chamomile has been increased in Ayurvedic, Chinese and homeopathic medicine for centuries as a sleeping aid. It is only recently that research has revealed that it is the flavonoids in the herb (which when ingested in powderd form) help relax taut muscles and nerves. A cup of chamomile brewed tea with a pinch of salt works just as well.
*Turkey is not a common fixture at our dinner tables, although research concludes that there is good reason for adding this tender and delicious meat to your diet. This is because turkey is packed with tryptophan, an amino acid essential to the production of serotonin-the ‘happiness’ hormone. Depleting serotonin levels are believed to make people ‘jumpy’ and restless.
*Whole grain foods (such as brown rise and bread) are packed with magnesium, a mineral that reduces stress levels. The presence of healthy carbohydrates in whole grain foods help maintain high energy levels, and allow you to stay calm and focused in panic-inducing situations.
By Saba Gul Hasan. The writer is a nutritionist.