If your child has anxiety, you MUST explore and address gut issues.
Any of the following gut issues (often more than one) can contribute to anxiety: dysbiosis, parasites, food sensitivities, low stomach acid, leaky gut, low pancreatic enzymes, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial infection), IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), problems with the vagus nerve, low B12, poor bile quality, liver toxicity, constipation.
And, while you are exploring those issues, using amino acids to address the anxiety can be incredibly helpful!
You should also address a compromised endocannabinoid system, mitochondrial dysfunction, environmental toxins, life stresses and many other factors.
Figuring out and addressing the above root causes can take time and, while all the above is being investigated and addressed, amino acids can offer quick relief from anxiety (and give you hope)!
They (amino acids) make everything so much easier to handle and much less overwhelming. They can help eliminate fear goes away and help you handle whatever comes your way. Labs tests, protocols and diagnosis can feel less challenging.
Of course, a healthy diet, sleep and exercise are fundamental when you have anxiety, and the amino acids play a role here too:
- Dietary changes: quit gluten, sugar, caffeine (and sometimes grains) — amino acids help break the addiction aspect so no willpower is required and you don’t feel deprived.
- GABA, tryptophan and glutamine may help with sleep when low GABA, low serotonin and low blood sugar are factors. DPA can help sleep when pain is an issue, as can GABA and tryptophan.
- Tyrosine improves motivation and energy so you want to get outside and look forward to exercise.