Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious condition which can disrupt the mental and physical wellbeing of the person who has it. Its physiological effects are associated with chemical and nutritional dysfunctions in the body. In observance of PTSD Awareness Month, here we look at four applicable supplements which could benefit someone living with this PTSD.
A Look at PTSD: Why Does Nutrition Matter?
It's important to acknowledge post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its available treatments, by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It’s never a bad time to tackle PTSD and how it can severely hamper a person’s quality of life. PTSD is more common than many people may think.
About 13 million American adults have PTSD. PTSD can result from wartime trauma, but it can also be a health outcome sourced from other serious traumatic experiences. Comorbidities (compounding diagnoses) in the form of depression and anxiety are common. Substance abuse disorders sometimes develop in those with PTSD. Despite these, many people with PTSD tend to see improvement over time with adequate treatment.
PTSD has physiological effects on the body. It is in the context of these physiological effects that nutritional supplementation could be helpful for some people so afflicted. PTSD affects hormones and neurotransmitters. Sustained cortisol levels resulting from a sustained fight-or-flight response to perceived danger can disrupt the body and even affect parts of the brain related to memory and emotions. Changes in serotonin levels can affect mood and emotions, as well.
Supplements for PTSD
Some vitamins and other healthy substances have properties which could contribute to improved physiological well-being of someone experiencing effects of PTSD. Each of them works in specific ways. Here are four of the most potentially effective natural remedies for decreasing symptoms and returning normalcy to the life of someone with PTSD:
L-theanine has been studied in animal studies for its potential to affect gene expression and neurotransmitter expression in ways which could ease waking experience in someone with PTSD. Research shows that genes in certain parts of the brain are positively modulated by l-theanine; These include genes related to neural pathway signaling, as well as depression, violence and aggression, mild stress, and mood disorders. All of the positive changes of l-theanine to genetic expression could potentially contribute to reduced symptom-related difficulties of PTSD.
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats which are known for their many anti-inflammatory benefits. These fatty acids can help someone with PTSD by reducing the neuronal inflammation that is associated with the disorder. By reducing neuroinflammation, the omega-3 fatty acids contained in an oral supplement could improve mood, reduce anxiety, and mitigate the symptom severity of other PTSD symptoms.
Vitamin D is a crucial vitamin which many people take for granted since deficiency is so common. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increased severity of PTSD symptoms. Among other functions, vitamin D contributes to mood regulation and immune system support. Given the relationship between vitamin D and mood, and PTSD, a mere vitamin D supplement could make a meaningful difference for someone with PTSD.
Phosphatidylserine is a complex supplement which is known for its properties that support focus, cognition, memory. Its benefits are the result of its ability to support neurotransmitter activity. All of the combined potential benefits that phosphatidylserine can bestow on the health of one’s waking mind and memory make it a worthwhile compound for someone with PTSD.
If you or someone you’re close to has been diagnosed with PTSD, then consider the positive benefits of these four supplements to both mind and body. One of these may contribute to the relief and peace that someone with PTSD desperately seeks. It is recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.