Post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychiatric disorder which can cause distressing symptoms, and also be manifested in somatic symptoms. Now we take a look at some of the supplements which can be strategically utilized to alleviate the somatic and psychiatric symptoms of this condition.
A Quick Look at PTSD and Psychosomatic Complications
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed trauma. The precipitating trauma can be a single event or a series of events. PTSD is widely known to occur in men who have been in warring combat, but PTSD can also be the result of any type of trauma including serious accidents, medical illness, or physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.
The majority of people afflicted with PTSD might experience psychiatric and emotional distress after experiencing or witnessing trauma. Only a minority, however, will develop prolonged distress which would meet the criteria for PTSD. Symptoms fall into four general categories, which we will only briefly mention here: Intrusive thoughts, avoidance of triggers (including thoughts), negative changes in mood and cognition (e.g., memory loss, depression), and negative changes in arousal and reactivity.
PTSD can affect the body, as well. Particular symptom patterns can occur due to disruptions in the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Parasympathetic disruption can lead to digestion issues, and the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Sympathetic disruptions can include headache, stomach ache, and also issues with digestion. These are the result of severe and/or prolonged psychiatric distress on the gut. Stress also affects blood sugar and energy levels, as well as neuronal communication in the brain. The effects of stress associated with PTSD on the body can compound the psychiatric stresses in some people with PTSD. With the psycho-somatic effects of PTSD being as they are, the utilization of dietary supplements have come to play a meaningful role in the management of PTSD.
Supplements to Help Manage PTSD
Various dietary supplements have been recommended for managing the effects of PTSD. These are not recommended as a replacement for medical treatment where it is merited. Here, we look at three of the most well-supported and targeted products for alleviating specific complications of PTSD.
Magnesium is a crucial mineral for human health. One of magnesium’s roles is that of regulating the nervous system, making it an important mineral for good sleep quality and stress reduction. These properties make it a relevant and helpful substance to get enough of if you are someone who experiences stress associated with PTSD. Research on magnesium suggests that it is effective in improving sleep and anxiety levels in those with this condition.
Probiotics: The pro-health, beneficial probiotic bacteria found in natural sources can support the gut microbiome in ways that can help the body manage psychosomatic stress associated with PTSD. A probiotic supplement is a recommended way to consume these healthy bacteria directly. The consumption of probiotic bacteria has been found to correlate with decreased pain and inflammation.
Phosphatidyl Serine complex: Phospholipids (a type of fat) in the human body, specifically phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylcholine (PC), are substances which are concentrated in brain cell membranes, contributing to cell structure and function. Supplementing with a phosphatidyl complex supplement containing PS and PC can support the activity of dopamine, acetylcholine, and other neurotransmitters. Research shows that taking this supplement can improve memory and cognition, and reduce the circulation of cortisol (the body’s primary stress hormone). These effects can support the perceived well-being of someone with PTSD.
Do you or someone you love have post-traumatic stress disorder? If so, then the utilization of these particular supplements is absolutely worth consideration for their ability to help reduce stress and somatic distress. Think of how these could be of help, and talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement to help manage PTSD to be sure they won’t conflict with any medications the person might already be using.