Help for Panic Attacks

Mark A. Stengler, NMD
La Jolla Whole Health Clinic

Special from Bottom Line/Natural Healing

June 1, 2010

T he intense fear and heart attack-like symptoms of a panic attack come on suddenly, without warning. By definition, panic attacks are unprovoked, and figuring out why some people get panic attacks can be challenging. Sometimes they are triggered by fatigue... anxiety... phobias (such as fear of heights)... stress... stimulants (such as caffeine)... low blood sugar... or medication withdrawal. In most cases, panic attacks can be helped by natural therapies.

During a panic attack: Bach Flower Rescue Remedy. This homeopathic blend of flower extracts, which comes in a spray or drop form, quickly and gently relaxes the nervous system. For panic, use the spray form -- and spray once under the tongue every five minutes until anxiety subsides. Available at health-food stores, this product comes in a small, easy-to-carry bottle.

To prevent panic attacks...

Take AlphaS1-casein hydrolyate. This supplement, made of the milk protein casein, helps to calm the nervous system and has been shown to reduce stress-related symptoms. It is best used preventively for those with anxiety who are prone to regular bouts of panic attacks.

Brand to try: A product with alpha S1-casein or lactium, such as Nature’s Plus Dreaminol (800-645-9500, www.NaturesPlus.com, for a store locator).

Treat weak adrenal glands. I have found that patients who are prone to panic attacks often have weak adrenal glands, which keeps the body from effectively coping with stress. Several supplements can help, including the herb ashwagandha (250 mg daily at bedtime) and one 50-mg tablet (or capsule) of a B-complex vitamin twice daily.

Avoid sugar. Eliminating sugar helps to maintain blood sugar levels and makes it less likely that you will feel edgy due to a sugar-induced roller coaster. To keep your blood sugar on an even keel, eat small amounts of protein throughout the day, such as lean poultry, nuts, legumes and fish.

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Source: Mark A. Stengler, NMD, a naturopathic medical doctor and leading authority on the practice of alternative and integrated medicine. Dr. Stengler is editor of the Bottom Line Natural Healing newsletter, author of The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies (Bottom Line Books), director of the La Jolla Whole Health Clinic in La Jolla, California, and adjunct associate clinical professor at the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon. To learn more about his work, visit www.drstengler.com.