Natural Supplements and Vitamins That Can Boost Your Mood
These over-the-counter products can help clear your head
Around this time, you may feel tired, stressed, distracted, depressed, and like your memory has reached its maximum capacity. While receiving medical help and therapy can make a huge difference, many students don’t know that natural supplements can as well.
These supplements may help you decrease stress, improve cognitive functioning and memory, and improve your mood. Whether your stress manifests into anxiety or loss of sleep, the following three supplements can help ground you. It is important to note that you should talk to your doctor before trying any new supplements if you are currently taking other medication.
L Theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. It is thought to have an effect which slows down the mind and calms racing thoughts.
Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic plants that help the body cope with stressors of all kinds, including physical, chemical, and biological. Ashwagandha can be beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety, and helping memory and cognition.
Holy Basil can promote relaxation and reduce stress hormones while calming frazzled nerves and improving mental clarity and focus. Holy Basil has the ability to increase physical and emotional endurance, therefore increasing the resilience to all stressors.
When it comes to cognitive functioning and memory we could all use a little extra support, and Omega-3s are vital for brain functioning and development. DHA is the main Omega-3 fatty acid found in your brain. It is abundant in cell membranes and is essential for a functional nervous system. Deficiencies of DHA are associated with deficits in learning, memory, and cognitive function.
Ginkgo Biloba is known to improve cognitive function because it promotes blood circulation in the brain and protects it from neuronal damage.
Phosphatidylserine plays an important role in keeping your mind and memory sharp. It is also known to improve attention and language skills. Research has shown that this supplement has been successful in managing impulse control and hyperactivity in individuals with ADHD.
As young adults, sometimes our moods can get the best of us. The following three supplements may help regulate your mood.
Research has shown that vitamin D can play an important role in regulating mood and defending against depression. Research indicates that lower levels of vitamin D can negatively affect cellular signaling and neural activity in the brain. There is also a relationship between vitamin D and the production of serotonin, and since low levels of serotonin are present in people with depression, taking it may benefit those struggling with depressive symptoms.
B complex vitamins are often used to reduce fatigue and boost mood. They may relieve stress, boost cognitive performance, and reduce symptoms of both depression and anxiety. B12 is well known for its energizing qualities, and B6 is known for reducing stress and promoting cognitive well-being.
All of these supplements are easily accessible, meaning they do not require a prescription and can be purchased over the counter. However, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor before taking these supplements, especially if you are currently taking other medications.