The Antianxiety Food Solution
– How the Foods You Eat Can Help You Calm Your Anxious Mind, Improve Your Mood and End Cravings
by Trudy Scott, CN (published by New Harbinger, 2011)
It’s remarkable how much the foods we eat can impact our brain chemistry and emotions. What and when we eat can make the difference between feeling anxious and staying calm and in control. But most of us don’t realize how much our diets influence our moods, thoughts, and feelings until we make a change. In this book, you’ll find four unique antianxiety diets designed to help you address nutritional deficiencies that may be at the root of your anxiety and enjoy the many foods that foster increased emotional balance.
This easy-to-use guide helps you choose the best plan for you and incorporates effective anxiety-busting foods and nutrients. You’ll soon be on the path to freeing yourself from anxiety—and enjoying an improved overall mood, better sleep, fewer cravings, and optimal health—the natural way!
In The Antianxiety Food Solution, you’ll discover:
- How to assess your diet for anxiety-causing and anxiety-calming foods and nutrients
- Foods and nutrients that balance your brain chemistry
- Which anxiety-triggering foods and drinks you may need to avoid
- Easy lifestyle changes that reduce anxiety and increase happiness
Buy your copy
Endorsements
Reviews from readers
I can “recommend it for practitioners who have patients/clients who want to improve their affect, increase energy levels (who doesn’t!), suffer from anxiety, poor memory or sleep issues. Pass on this book to them and ask them to read it through cover to cover. It’s got a wealth of tips and resources linking behaviour with nutrition, and does it gracefully and with much self-insight.
I’ve read many books on the subject of psychology and biochemical links, and this is definitely one of the best written. It’s aimed at the intelligent reader who may have a little knowledge of nutrition, as well as practitioners and those who use patient centred approaches within their practice.
Donald Scott, Osteopath & Naturopath, Natural Therapy Centre, Kilmacolm, Inverclyde, United KingdomI cried my way thru this book ~ out of JOY~ for finally finding a very helpful book! I have been on a journey for 10 years trying to navigate issues with depression, stress, anxiety, insomnia and other fun things. I’ve been to doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists and counselors. I’ve been put on medication which after many years of that left me suicidal, overweight, depressed and very angry. It is VERY frustrating trying to navigate doctors, testing and information out there that could help you. This summer I read several books that addressed depression from a dietary and nutrition standpoint. This one was the best in my opinion. It’s not too long, easy to read and understand, and well organized. And it agreed with several things I had read in other books ~ such as the use of amino acids, vitamins and issues with gluten and sugar to address depression, etc. There’s many good ‘life stories’ in it too which help you relate. Thanks Trudy Scott!
Kathy Masterson, Amazon reviewBook reviews
- by Mira Dessy, Certified Nutrition Educator and holistic health columnist and featured in Nourishing Bytes, the ezine produced by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals, June 2011.
- by Dr Winston Chung, MD and Child Psychiatrist, and featured the SFGate blog City Brights.
Table of contents
Introduction
My Story
Anxiety Statistics and Facts
Causes of Anxiety
What Is a Natural Approach and Why Use It?
Overview of the Book
Chapter 1: Figure Out Your Optimum Antianxiety Diet
The Antianxiety Food Solution Diets
Antianxiety Food Solution Diet 1: Gluten Free
Antianxiety Food Solution Diet 2: Gluten Free and Dairy Free
Antianxiety Food Solution Diet 3: Grain Free and Dairy Free
Antianxiety Food Solution Diet 4: Traditional Foods
Foods to Include
Eat Real, Whole, Good-Quality Foods
Eat Frequently Enough
Eat Quality Animal Protein
Red Meat
Poultry and Eggs
Fish and Other Seafood
Eat Nonstarchy Fresh Vegetables
Eat Fresh Fruit
Eat Good Fats
Keep Hydrated
Eat Legumes
Eat Starchy Fresh Vegetables
Eat Gluten-Free Whole Grains
Consume Dairy
Eat Whole Grains That Contain Gluten
Foods to Avoid
Avoid Empty Foods
Other Foods You May Need to Avoid
Eat Bonus Foods
Recipe and Food Resources
Wrapping Up
Chapter 2: Avoid Sugar and Control Blood Sugar Swings
The Harmful Effects of Sugar and Sweeteners
Sugars and Sweeteners Defined
Where Sugar Is Found
Artificial Sweeteners
What to Use Instead of Unhealthy Sugars and Artificial Sweeteners
Control Blood Sugar Swings
Benefits of Controlling Blood Sugar Swings
Simple Dietary Changes to Help Control Blood Sugar Swings
Supplements
How Quickly You Can Expect Improvements
If You Have a Sugar or Carb Addiction and Can’t Quit
Chapter 3. Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, and Nicotine
Coffee and Caffeine
Caffeine and Anxiety
Other Reasons to Consider Giving Up Caffeine
How to Quit Caffeine and What to Drink Instead
If You Do Want to Drink Coffee
Alcohol
Nutritional Deficiencies Due to Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol and Low Blood Sugar
Alcohol Sensitivity
How to Quit Alcohol
Nicotine
Nicotine and Anxiety
How to Quit Smoking
How Quickly You Can Expect Improvements
Chapter 4. Address Problems with Gluten and Other Foods
Why Food May Be Affecting Your Mood
True Food Allergies
Food Sensitivities or Delayed Food Reactions
Problems with Gluten
Gluten, Anxiety, and Other Mood Problems
Gluten and the Digestive System
Testing for Gluten Sensitivities
Two-Week Gluten Elimination-Challenge Trial
Lab Tests for Gluten Sensitivity
Salivary Antigliadin Antibodies
IgG Antibodies for Gluten-Containing Grains
Elevated Thyroid Antibodies
Testing for Celiac Disease
Alternatives to Grains That Contain Gluten
If Gluten Isn’t a Problem
Problems with Dairy Consumption
Problems with Other Foods
Problems with All Grains and Starchy Vegetables
Using Amino Acids to Reduce Cravings
Allergies and Anxiety Due to Low Blood Histamine
How Quickly You Can Expect Improvements
Chapter 5. Improve Your Digestion
The Digestive Process
Why Good Digestion and Absorption Are Important
Using Your Stool as a Clue to Your Digestive Function
Eating Guidelines for Good Digestion
Eat Foods That Promote Good Digestion and Skip Poor-Quality Food
Change Your Eating Habits
Causes of Poor Digestion and How to Improve Your Digestion
Low Levels of Stomach Acid or Pancreatic Enzymes
Testing for Low Stomach Acid and Pancreatic Enzymes
How to Correct Low Stomach Acid or Low Pancreatic Enzymes
Large Intestine Issues
Bacterial Imbalance or Parasites
Candida Overgrowth
Testing for Bacterial Imbalance, Parasites, and Candida
Controlling Candida and Increasing Beneficial Bacteria
Foods and Nutrients for Healing a Damaged Digestive System
Liver or Gallbladder Problems
How Quickly You Can Expect Improvements
Chapter 6. Balance Brain Chemistry with Amino Acids
GABA
Steps to Raise GABA Levels
Serotonin
Steps to Raise Serotonin Levels
Catecholamines
Steps to Raise Catecholamine Levels
Endorphins
Steps to Raise Endorphin Levels
Testing for Levels of Amino Acids
Drug of Choice
Guidelines for Supplementing with Amino Acids
Amino Acid Precautions
How Quickly You Can Expect Improvements
Chapter 7. Address Pyroluria or Low Levels of Zinc and Vitamin B6
Prevalence of Pyroluria and Co-occurring Disorders
Testing for Pyroluria
Pyroluria Urine Test
Zinc Taste Test
Vitamin B6 Testing
Fatty Acid Testing
Comprehensive Metabolic Profile
Zinc, Vitamin B6, and Fatty Acids for Pyroluria
Zinc Supplementation
Food Sources of Zinc
Vitamin B6 Supplementation
Food Sources of Vitamin B6
Fatty Acids for Pyroluria
Other Nutrients for Pyroluria
How Quickly You Can Expect Improvements
Chapter 8. Other Nutrients, Hormone Imbalances, Toxins, Medications, and Lifestyle Changes
Basic Supplements
Multivitamin and Multimineral with B Vitamins
Iron
Vitamin C
Individual Nutrients for Anxiety
Extra B Vitamins
Magnesium and Calcium
Vitamin D
Omega-3s and Omega-6s
Theanine and Lactium
Hormone Imbalances
Adrenal Dysfunction
Thyroid Dysfunction
Sex Hormone Imbalances in Women
Reduce Your Exposure to Toxins
Toxins in the Home
Heavy Metals
Understand the Effects of Medications
Make Important Lifestyle Changes
Do Some Exercise, Preferably Outdoors
Get Enough Sleep
Consider Therapy and Support Groups
Set Aside Time for Relaxation
Take Up Yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, or Meditation
Take a Real Vacation Every Year
Try Guided Imagery
Other Techniques That May Help
Parting Words
Appendices
- Sue’s Story
- Food, Mood, Energy, Cravings, and Sleep Log
Resources
Internet Resources for Healthy Eating and Living
Lab Tests
Recommended Reading
Nutritional Healing
Food, Cooking, and Cookbooks
References
A selection of quotes and facts from each chapter
Here are a selection of quotes and facts from each chapter of the book:
Introduction
“There’s a reason why I’m so passionate about working with people with anxiety and why I’m writing this book. I’ve had my own personal journey with anxiety…”
Chapter 1: Figure Out Your Optimum Antianxiety Diet
There are 4 antianxiety diets but “Eating real, whole, good-quality food is the foundation of this book and any program to prevent and alleviate mental health issues such as anxiety….”
Chapter 2: Avoid Sugar and Control Blood Sugar Swings
“Sugar and alcohol may contribute to elevated levels of lactate in the blood, which can cause anxiety and panic attacks”
Chapter 3: Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, and Nicotine
In a study, “…those with panic disorders experienced increases in symptoms such as nervousness, fear, nausea, heart palpitations, and tremors after consuming caffeine and said the effects were similar to how they felt during a panic attack…”
Chapter 4: Address Problems with Gluten and Other Foods
“Clinical experience and specific studies support the connection between gluten and anxiety, social phobia, depression, and even schizophrenia”
Chapter 5: Improve Your Digestion
“…people with digestive complaints such IBS, food allergies and sensitivities, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and ulcerative colitis frequently suffer from anxiety and…depression.”
Chapter 6: Balance Brain Chemistry with Amino Acids
“GABA plays a major role in anxiety, and serotonin plays a role in at least some types of anxiety…. The great thing about supplementing with amino acids is that you’ll get immediate feedback: positive effects, adverse effects, or no changes at all.”
Chapter 7: Address Pyroluria or Low Levels of Zinc and Vitamin B6
“Low levels of zinc and vitamin B6 are frequently associated with a type of anxiety characterized by social anxiety, avoidance of crowds, a feeling of inner tension, and bouts of depression”
Chapter 8: Other Nutrients, Hormone Imbalances, Toxins, Medications, & Lifestyle Changes
“Mild to moderate deficiency of vitamin C may be associated with increased nervousness and anxiety… Supplemental magnesium together with vitamin B6 was shown to alleviate anxiety-related premenstrual symptoms, as well as breast tenderness and menstrual weight gain…”
As you can see, there are many factors that can affect how anxious you feel and since we are all biochemically unique it’s important to figure out and address what may be triggering your anxiety, mood issues and associated cravings.
Once you’ve read your copy (or listened to the audio version) I would love to hear back from you on how my book has helped you and/or family members – either here in the comments below or via an Amazon review or a review on another platform.
Feel free to post your questions too.
Just ordered your book and am excited to go through it! Is there any information regarding lithium, gaba and tryptophan for children with ADHD and ODD? My daughter has been recently diagnosed and we’re trying to navigate what might be most helpful. We have removed gluten from the diet which has been a wonderful start and we have seen some change already. Thanks!
Tara
So glad to hear gluten removal has led to some changes already. I encourage you to continue with the dietary changes and blood sugar balancing. All this often has a huge impact with children. With regards to the amino acids, I don’t specifically write about children but everything can be applied by starting with very low doses.
Dr. James Greenblatt’s work on low dose lithium (lithium orotate) is a great resource. It’s something I often use with clients once the foundations are in place
Thank you again so very much! I will look into Dr. Greenblatt.
Hi
I got told by amy yasko who I was recomended to see that I need b12 but my lithium would go down …
Also said she thinks amino acids test.
We have Autisum in my family , b12 sibo Candida thyroid problems
I personally have sibo Mfthr genec Candida pernicous anemia
Mu iPod food prob borne histamine I can’t have any yeast dairy I have Chris nic sinusitis
Muscle weakness right side fluctuates with symptoms
Constantly need. Caffeine to keep going very dry thin skin no libido chronic fatigue if go off diet can’t recover excersise muscle wastage
My en has Autisum and when we go off diet symptoms worse but she ve found out my b12,goes low off diet and thyroid m but diet tests berry t tests maintain
Low fod map low sugar gluten dairy yeast soya free low fat. Grace nic distillation or dioreah with fat 🙁
I’ve tried coooeten powder Sen help a bit when needing if it’s the amino acids in it
I can’t find amino acid questionare 🙂
Thanks x
Mandy
The amino acid questionnaire is in the amino acids/neurotransmitters chapter in the book and all on the blog here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/
There is also a comprehensive section on caffeine and the adrenals so be sure to read that to help quit. There is also a section on candida in the digestion chapter.
You can read more about low lithium in this recent blog https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/low-lithium-questionnaire-and-how-we-use-lithium-orotate-with-the-amino-acids/
Are old comments from here still available? I wanted to show them to my naturopath but they’re gone.
Pen
No comments from the blog have been deleted – perhaps it was on another blog post?
Unfortunately the online store Trudy uses does not ship to Australia. Very difficult to get the products she recommends.
Erika
I am trying my best to source products in Australia. For now many of the amino acids can be purchased in bulk powder from sports nutrition shops. You can also get international shipping using a company like shipitto – see the section “What about international orders?” on this blog https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/.
Looking for someone to help put a program together for my adult daughter.
Adrienne
I would start by reading the book and having her read it too, starting with the foundational dietary changes. I’m not taking new clients right now so feel free to sign up on the waiting list. We do also have online group programs if that works for you/her.
Hi Trudy, I have been getting your e-mails for a year and a half or so. Sometimes I’ll read your blog. I had never heard of Pyroluria till I saw it on your site. I just finished reading your book. I borrowed it from our local library, which I felt so blessed to find it available there. I found it very interesting. I started reading and taking notes on it for a second time through. I did score fairly high on the Pyroluria questionnaire. I have made great strides in overcoming depression, but still deal with anxiety, though I’m so much improved in the past few years. I benefitted much with homeopathy in the last year and a half. I don’t want it to go without saying, I trust the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and have cried out to Him for help and guidance many times in these areas! Since I’m so much improved in the areas of depression (nearly non existent now) and anxiety, would taking a test now show that I have Pyroluria, (if I do indeed have it) when the symptoms are much improved? Or do you need to be in the midst of the symptoms for the tests to indicate? Also, after reading your book, I find my anxiety increases when I think of all the choices involved in treating, testing, changing routines.
I have been off refined sugar for 2 and a half years. I do eat carbs and have been allowing gluten in for half a year or so. I have been weaning myself off coffee and seldom have it, though I still enjoy caffeine in a cup of morning tea. My insomnia/sleep is hard to ‘read’. Spring of 21 I was having trouble with sleeping through the night. Then for about 6 or 7 weeks, I slept great, now in the last week or so I’m having more trouble with sleep again. This seems crazy, but after reading your book, and getting anxious about all the information and then not taking steps, I imagine that anxiety could be affecting my sleep.
My take away after picking up your book and going through it a second time is that nutrition is so important. I appreciate your willingness to share your research and findings as well as your kindness. I don’t know if this is a Pyroluria symptom, but this is not easy to share online.
Thanks much,
Susan
Susan
Thanks for your kind words and do glad to hear you’ve gained so much value from my book and seen improvements! Good job being off refined sugar! I would consider caffeine in tea and gluten to be possible factors in ongoing anxiety and insomnia.
Pyroluria testing only offers results when off the supps and in the midst of symptoms. There are often also false negatives so I rely on the questionnaire and response to supps.
I unsubscribed by error Trudi. I’m sorry… l love yr knowledge & teaching. Please subscribe me again. Many,many thanks. Kaye, Australia
Kaye
Please use the sign up to the top right of the blog. I cannot add anyone as it would be considered spam
What or which is the best collegens
May I please sign up for your newsletter and/or updates.
Nancy
Please use the sign up to the top right of the blog. I cannot add anyone as it would be considered spam
Is there nutrition help for someone with bi-polar disorder?
Sharon
If you are new to the amino acids and other anxiety nutrition solutions like real whole food, quality animal protein, fermented foods, organic produce, health fats, gluten/sugar/caffeine removal, blood sugar control, gut health, pyroluria etc, much of this information from my book is considered foundational many mental health disorders including bipolar.
What is your diet like right now – gluten-free, sugar-free, caffeine-free, eating protein at breakfast for blood sugar control, real whole foods, grass-fed red meat, wild fish, fermented foods etc?
Resources on the blog:
– Bipolar, disruptive mood or gluten and junk food? https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/bipolar-disruptive-mood-or-gluten-and-junk-food/
– Midday bright light therapy for bipolar depression https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/midday-bright-light-therapy-bipolar-depression/
– Toxoplasma gondii: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD and unresolved anxiety? https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/toxoplasma-gondii-schizophrenia-bipolar-disorder-ocd-unresolved-anxiety/
– Microdose lithium formulation is capable of halting signs of advanced Alzheimer’s and improving cognition https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/microdose-lithium-formulation-is-capable-of-halting-signs-of-advanced-alzheimers-and-improving-cognition/
Be sure to look into Dr. Greenblatt’s book ““Nutritional Lithium: A Cinderella Story: The Untold Tale of a Mineral That Transforms Lives and Heals the Brain” https://amzn.to/2S5YXAK (my Amazon link)
Dr. Greenblatt’s article doesn’t suggest an ideal amount of Lithium to take.
Angela
More here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/low-lithium-questionnaire-and-how-we-use-lithium-orotate-with-the-amino-acids/
Trudy good info. here. Q for you. Your book was written in 2011 approximately 11 years ago. Has there been a update since then as things change overtime as we learn & grow more regarding Amino Acids & downstream effects. Thanks !!!
Robert
My book is still current and relevant. One change would be the mention of folic acid – today I’d discuss methylfolate instead.
Newer research and other amino acid applications (like swallowing issues due to spasms etc) are all covered in my blog posts here on the website, but what I share in the book is still foundational to all my work, writings, speaking and education.
Thanks for asking and I hope you find it helpful
COULD YOU PROVIDE THE AMOUNTS OF THESE SUPPLEMENTS WE COULD START WITH?
Nancy
It’s explained in great detail in the book, together with the dietary approach I have clients follow
Hi Trudy! I just bought a new copy of your book from Target. It starts from the beginning and goes to page 82 then jumps to page 131-178. After that is starts with page 131-202. I would like to reorder the book if there is a copy available with all of the correct information and in the correct order. Are you aware of this printing error and where I can order a complete copy quickly?
Thank you,
Mary Lewis
Mary
Gosh this is not good – my apologies! I suggest asking Target for a replacement book – hopefully it’s a one-off problem. I’ll also reach out to my publisher to make sure this isn’t a widespread issue.
Hi Trudy and friends, my question is just to make clear regarding the dosage of GABA since I did a trial test and felt like myself again. Thank you beforehand
Marilina
Wonderful – how much did you use and which product? Typical starting dose is 125mg used sublingually. The book has an entire chapter on the amino acids with all the dosing combinations so be sure to read that
Hi Trudy,
I have written before but the diagnoses is still being figured out by neurologist ( he is leaning towards a functional movement disorder) but still trying to rule out Parkinsonism with dat scan etc. I am 130 pounds.
I have a tremor in my left leg now during rest too when walking and standing is worst but still there. It’s getting worst as time goes.
I have done extensive blood work urine stool etc. The only thing is low iron 23 and b 6 a bit high at 28. Mri of brain spine clear. They say I don’t fit the parkinson symptoms or ms.
If it’s a functional movement disorder then what would u recommend to try.
At the moment I have a very fast tremor my brain finds it hard to concentrate, I have noticed rumination and in last few months mood is pretty bad as I am getting discouraged. I walk very slow now aswell.
I feel very aggiated all the time now.
I have tried gaba at night at 100 mg but it makes me awake more I sleep worst. I tried gaba and theanine SAP last night and same thing, sleep not good kinda awake not deep sleep. I have no problem falling asleep but keep waking up. I remember all my dreams pretty well too and have high b 6.
I have bought tryptophan chewables 200 mg u recommend (I haven’t tried yet, when is it best to try them ? Would I see a change in a few days or need to take for longer ) and I have gaba at home by itself 100 mg have tried during day but I feel my breathing is a bit off slower and it kinda freaks me out.
I have tried some sleep supplements before and find my sleep better but have very vivid bad dreams and wake up in morning with low mood.
Doc has given me clonazepam for
Night for a month but want to see if u have any recommendations before I go that route.
Before this tremor I would say I have had very minor anxiety and worried but nothing like what it’s now.
Thank you,
V
V
You may find this helpful – Essential tremor, dystonia, anxiety and cravings – diet, GABA, tryptophan, zinc and vitamin B6 https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/essential-tremor-dystonia-anxiety-and-cravings-diet-gaba-tryptophan-zinc-and-vitamin-b6/
With the correct dose of tryptophan and if serotonin is low, you feel results right away.
Be sure to read my book for foundational information and more about the amino acids
Hi Trudy
Because I take collagen for bones I’m interested in tryptophan. I googled to see if any side effects and this is what I saw:
Common side effects of L-tryptophan may include:
• feeling drowsy or light-headed;
• dry mouth, heartburn, burping, gas;
• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• weakness, lack of coordination;
• blurred vision;
• headache; or
Because I already have diarrhea and itching from mold allergy I’m scared of making things
worse. I would prefer to keep taking collagen because I have osteoporosis.
Would I be safe taking this?
Angela
I would expect to see a list of side-effects like this on a regular medical site (feel free to share the link). The only one I have seen is feeling drowsy if too much is used or if it’s used too early in the day.
Feel free to search the blog for success stories – there are many! And read my book to give you confidence in using the amino acids and making dietary changes.
Be sure to tune in to the upcoming osteoporosis summit as I cover collagen and all possible issues in detail
Thanks Trudy
My son’s are on gluten free, casein free, nitrate/nitrite and sulfite free, corn, soy free, refined sugar free, colour and preservative free diet. Plenty red meat, vegetables, fruit, nuts, largely grain free. Some but minimal rice (ingredient in sausages or crackerrs). Follow nemecheck protocol ( extra virgin olive oil, fish oil and inulin). Lower salicylate diet for elder son (no brocoli because of day time wetting). Extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil only. Have concerns middle ADHD son has issues with oxalates and maybe diabetic (weird smelling sweat). Certainly notice hyper extendibility of joints in both son’s. AdHD son complains of pain in knees alot (shorter).
Do you still offer a group program that might help a person decide where to start? I have a copy of your book, The Antianxiety Food Solution. I am primarily anxious, experience lots of negative self talk, low energy/motivation and feel depressed most of the time. Chapter 6 confused me more. After answering the questionnaires, I met multiple criteria areas … I don’t know which would be best to remedy first! Or, can you work on areas simultaneously?
Debra
I have clients start in the area that is the most problematic and then address the next area. I do have an online group program but mirrors the book.
Hello,
My son is a 14 and we have been battling Tourette’s (tics both vocal and motor) since he was 3. He also has anxiety and OCD along with trouble sleeping. It is very difficult to get him to talk about all of these issues but I know his brain is going a mile a minute. We have tried everything under the sun to get his tics (most worrisome) under control. All the prescription medications e in there didn’t work or had severe side effects. He does use a b complex vitamin daily and it did help a little bit since he started puberty the tics are worse. I read about GABA before seeing all this information you provided and that is what lead me to finding this information. I have already ordered your book electronically and have ordered the GABA and trytophan. I was wondering if you could suggest a starting point he is 14 and 120 pounds. Should I start with one or the other which did you think might have more success in a teen.
Mary
You’ll find all the information you need in my book. I do start with the amino acids and expect to see results for tics, anxiety, OCD and sleep issues in a few weeks once the optimal dose is being used. I do start with just one amino acids and layer on the next one once we have figured out the dose and are seeing improvements. I have clients look at the low GABA and low serotonin symptoms and pick the area that is most troublesome but with tics and the other symptoms you list I’d probably start with GABA (and always use it sublingually/capsule opened).
And we mustn’t forget the dietary changes too – all outlined in my book.
You say “we have tried everything under the sun to get his tics under control” – can you share what and what side effects you saw?
What would you say about tranquility labs total calm for panic attacks its a all natural herbal calm it has all kinds of vitamins and l tryptophan in not sure on mgs thow also gaba passion flower ashwagandha l theanine and so on
Raymond
I’m not a fan of proprietary formulations because you have no idea how much of each amino acid/herb you are getting and it’s challenging to titrate up as needed based on symptoms
You can find the GABA/tryptophan products I use here https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-pyroluria-supplements/
And read about how to effectively use them in the amino acids chapter of my book. You’ll find other valuable dietary, gut etc info in other chapters.
Hi Trudy,
I am reading your book and have a few questions.
You have a chart for amino acid precautions in Chapter 6 that shows a person with asthma should not take tryptophan for anxiety/depression. Does that hold true for taking 5-HTP for anxiety/depression as well?
Also, should all the amino acids be taken and held in the mouth for best results?
I can’t thank you enough for your well-written and helpful book. My daughter has it and recommended I get it and I have now ordered another copy for my daughter-in-law.
Nancy
The asthma precaution does not hold true for 5-HTP and even though it’s a precaution for tryptophan I have only seen it to be an issue a few times.
GABA only works when used sublingually or opened in the mouth and you can get away with swallowing the others. However I do find they work best when held in the mouth especially if there are gut issues.
Thank you for your kind words and thank you for sharing my work amongst your family!
Oh my goodness thank you for getting back to me so quickly! I appreciate your knowledge and experience so much.
I am just starting to use the amino acids the way you describe in your book. One amazing experience I had with GABA 2 days ago: my husband has early Alzheimer’s and was very anxious about having his last colonoscopy… he is 80. I sat him down and opened up a whole 500mg capsule of GABA (NOW brand) and put it in his mouth. He is a big man, 220 lbs and so nervous that I thought I would give him the whole thing. I had him bathe his mouth with it for 5 minutes and then swallow the saliva little by little after that. I was astonished to see his whole affect change… in five minutes he was relaxed and happy. He said he felt much better and we went on to start the colonoscopy prep.
And here is another experience. In the evenings I find myself anxious and needing to snack after dinner as a comfort measure. I’m not hungry, I just need to continur eating to feel calm. I decided to try the EndorphiGen-MD by Lidtke, 500mg of DPA that I ordered after reading chapter 6 of your book. I thought I would try doing the same thing as what I had my husband do with the GABA and let the capsule dissolve in my mouth holding it there for at least five minutes… and the urge to snack went away. I have done this for the past 2 evenings with success! What I think might be helpful for others to know is that I didn’t swallow it. And it helped with only the one dose after dinner.
Nancy
I love this feedback about how much GABA helped your husband!
Super to hear about the Endorphigen helping you with your urge to snack after dinner. And yes I do now also recommend opening the capsule with this too – glad you figured it out
Dear Trudy,
I wanted to let you know that I have been reading and listening to you for years. I know that you really try to help people with anxiety and I thank you. Recently I had listened to Gary Brecka on a video speaking abou anxiety being genetic MTHFR gene. I knew that my two sisters had MTHFR but didn’t know if I had it. They offer testing but it’s expensive. He did happen to mention enzymes to help. I did start taking two D-Ohenylalanine and L-Tyrosine. I noticed right away that my anxiety is gone. I have had it at least 50 years. I wanted you to know about this break through for me. It’s been two weeks now and I am so relieved.
Sherry Weers
Sherry
Thanks for sharing that D-phenylalanine/DPA and L-Tyrosine have helped you so much. By the way they are amino acids not enzymes and you can read more about them in the amino acids chapter of my book! I am curious how much of each helped and which low endorphin and low dopamine/catecholamine symptoms you had and which have improved because DPA and tyrosine don’t typically help when someone is anxious. Here is the symptoms questionnaire https://www.everywomanover29.com/blog/amino-acids-mood-questionnaire-from-the-antianxiety-food-solution/
Hello Trudy
Thank you for all the great information you provide to us, it has been tremendously helpful. Can you tell me is GABA okay to use long term? I have had chronic insomnia for 35 years and then developed sleep anxiety as a result. I have been treated with medications for the sleep & anxiety. I have been trying to wean myself off them for years with no luck. Plus my insomnia is worse I have recently started taking gaba chewables 150 mg. Which seem to help but not sure if it is okay to be on them long term?
Anne
As long as GABA levels are low, using GABA supplements are considered safe but we always try to address why GABA is low too (all covered in my book)
Great to hear GABA chewables seem to help