Spring is coming - and that means saying goodbye to cold, dark nights and hello to new beginnings. Unfortunately, the effects of a long winter can continue into spring, impacting your ability to enjoy the lighter evenings.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is commonly associated with winter, but research shows that some people might experience spring depression, which occurs when the brain reacts to seasonal alterations.
There are numerous causes of spring depression, including changes to sleep patterns, feeling anxious about being outdoors more frequently and dealing with stress.
According to research published by Benefits and Pensions Monitor, 60% of Canadian employees revealed they deal with workplace stress, while 34% stated their stress occurs frequently.
Supplements: The answer to springtime stress?
Reducing stress is the key to eliminating negative thinking patterns and finding mental stability. It sounds easy - but stress can gradually build up, leaving many struggling to break free.
There are various ways to relieve stress, including prioritizing self-care, seeking counseling, and taking time off work. But for those with busy schedules and hectic professional lives, supplements can be beneficial.
Are they a magic cure for stress? No. However, introducing the right supplements to your daily intake can reduce some of the symptoms and help you relax.
With that in mind, let’s dive into this post, which focuses on the best supplements for a stress-free spring.
The benefits of supplements for stress
Supplements can’t replace a well-balanced diet, but they can fill nutritional gaps. In our fast-paced society, time to prepare healthy meals is often a luxury that few people have.
So, they turn to takeout and ready meals full of processed foods and saturated fats. Research shows that consuming a diet high in fats and sugars can aggravate stress or even cause it in some cases (Sutter Health).
With their high vitamin, mineral, and fatty acid content, supplements can provide nutrients to your body and mind. Some supplements also contain herbs and substances that facilitate relaxation in times of significant stress.
Let’s explore the benefits of supplements for stress in more detail.
Boosting cognitive functioning and enhancing brain health
Vitamins are particularly beneficial for the brain - especially B-Complex blends. Adding them to your diet can improve how your brain’s neurotransmitters function and enhance your cognitive functioning.
Nutritionists from Harvard highlight the role of Vitamin B in enhancing concentration and reducing the risks of depression (CNBC). While some people get enough of the vitamin from food alone, a supplement can ensure you receive the daily recommended amount of Vitamin B-Complex.
Moderating stress responses
Individuals who suffer from frequent stress often have high cortisol levels. Also known as the stress hormone, elevated cortisol can trigger reactions when the person is exposed to triggers—frequently resulting in a flight response.
Some supplements, including those with Rhodiola rosea, can reduce cortisol levels, making it easier for your stress response system to manage triggers effectively.
Promoting relaxation
Supplements containing ingredients such as L-theanine and magnesium are renowned for decreasing stress and promoting relaxation. Individuals who suffer from anxiety and insomnia might find these supplements help them switch off at night.
A recent study assessed how people with stress handled their symptoms while taking ashwagandha and found positive effects, including reduced cortisol levels.
Stabilizing your mood
Individuals with a history of anxiety, depression or other mental health disorders often find that stress aggravates their symptoms. The ingredients often found in stress supplements can regulate your mood by preventing stress from worsening.
Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for mood stabilization, reducing a person’s reactions to stressful situations and preventing anxiety.
Our top 6 supplements for stress reduction
Now that you know more about stress and how supplements can help manage its symptoms, it’s time to reveal our top picks. Our experts searched far and wide, comparing available supplements for their benefits and narrowing them down to this list.
In no particular order, here are six supplements that won’t let you down this spring.
1: Sisu B-Calm
B-Calm from Sisu is one of the most popular stress supplements available—and for good reason. It contains a powerful combination of B-complex vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12, to support a healthy nervous system and ensure optimal functioning.
With a hefty dose of rhodiola extract, each supplement can help your body adapt to stressful situations, altering its reactions.
Individuals with high levels of anxiety, insomnia and issues focusing will find that B-Calm improves their symptoms and helps them navigate life with less stress.
Winning features:
- Combines B-Complex vitamin and Rhodiola extract, creating a potent dose of essential nutrients.
- Positive reviews highlight the supplement’s ability to promote a calming effect.
- Can be beneficial for individuals with insomnia.
Potential drawbacks:
- Sisu B-Calm is one of the more expensive stress relief supplements out there.
- Some people notice it turns their urine yellow.
2: Natural Factors: Stress-Relax
Stress-Relax from Natural Factors is a natural way to reset your sleep cycle and enjoy more stability. Each tablet contains 3 mg of melatonin, which is renowned for its ability to reconfigure your sleep patterns instead of knocking you out.
Research shows that stress can cause insomnia, but melatonin can combat high cortisol levels, promoting relaxation (Wiley). If you’re struggling with anxiety and can’t switch off at night, a daily dose of melatonin can be highly beneficial.
Natural Factors offers chewable tablets in peppermint flavours. These tablets are easy to take before bed and provide fast-acting relief.
Winning features:
- The peppermint flavour makes a welcome change from other supplements.
- Each dose gets to work in 15 minutes.
- Proven to promote better sleep.
Potential drawbacks:
- People with high-stress levels or insomnia might need to increase the dosage.
- Melatonin can cause vivid dreams in some users.
3: Natural Factors Magnesium Bisglycinate
Stress isn’t always brought on by general worries or mental health issues; it can also occur due to physical health concerns. Individuals with chronic conditions are more at risk of experiencing high stress levels (NCBI).
Natural Factors aim to address this with the Magnesium Bisglycinate supplement, which comes in powder form. Mixing one scoop into water daily can reduce inflammation, support digestion and regulate the nervous system.
Magnesium is also known for enhancing bone and joint health, making it easier for people to enjoy an active lifestyle. Its muscle-relaxing properties can also promote better sleep and reduce the effects of anxiety.
Winning features:
- People with digestive issues won’t have any problems taking this supplement.
- It’s one of the more cost-effective options available.
- Ideal for individuals who hate taking capsules.
Potential drawbacks:
- The supplement doesn’t taste great with water, but you can mix it with juice to enhance the flavour.
- The powder can clump when not dissolved thoroughly and mixed correctly.
4: Now Supplements: GABA
Now is one of the most reputable supplement providers, and the GABA formula is a worthwhile investment for combating stress. Packed with 750mg of Gamma-aminobutyric acid, a daily dose will support individuals with nervous disorders and enhance relaxation.
GABA is a powerful way to combat the nervous system’s fight or flight response, inducing a state of calm around triggers that can disrupt your mental health. It’s also known for reducing inflammation and stabilizing the cardiovascular system.
People with anxiety disorders can particularly benefit from Now’s GABA, with many witnessing a significant decrease in their symptoms.
Winning features:
- Proven to reduce anxious reactions and provide relief to individuals with frequent worries.
- Can promote better sleep and support shift workers.
- Regulates the hormones, improving the symptoms of PMS.
Potential drawbacks:
- It can take a while to notice the therapeutic benefits of GABA.
- The capsules are large, making them unsuitable for people who dislike taking them.
5: Natural Factors Stress-Relax Serenity Formula
Fans of herbal supplements will love this vegetarian-friendly stress-relief solution from Natural Factors. It utilizes powerful herbs, including lavender, Rhodiola, Siberian ginseng, and Sensoril™, to balance the nervous system and block stress hormones.
Each dose can provide relief from stress and anxiety, promoting better sleep and supporting the symptoms of depression. It’s also proven to decrease C-protein levels and offer adrenal support.
Because the Stress-Relax Serenity Formula uses herbs, it’s a natural alternative to chemically produced supplements. It provides therapeutic benefits without leading to dependence.
Winning features:
- The tablets don’t have a nasty taste and are easy to use.
- Can provide immediate relief for stress and anxiety.
- An all-natural herbal solution that’s suitable for vegetarians.
Potential drawbacks:
- The supplements might be unsuitable if you’re taking certain antidepressants.
- Some people might need a stronger supplement for severe anxiety.
6: Natural Factors Mental Calmness (L-Theanine 100mg)
L-theanine is a beneficial amino acid found in green tea leaves. Holistic specialists highly regard it for its ability to promote calm and relaxation without making people drowsy.
If you’re not a fan of green tea (it has an acquired taste), these chewable supplements are excellent alternatives. With their topical flavour and 100mg of L-theanine in each dose, you can rest your mind and enjoy a decrease in anxious symptoms.
While further research is required, some studies highlight a positive correlation between L-theanine intake and dopamine production (PubMed).
Winning features:
- Available in tropical flavours.
- Can promote relaxation while also enhancing cognitive function.
- The tablets are chewable and easy to take.
Potential drawbacks:
- You might require two or three doses to experience the calming effects.
- Starting on a high dose can cause some minor side effects.
Choosing the right stress-relief supplements for your needs this spring
With so many top-quality supplements to choose between, knowing which is best for you can be challenging. Considering the following factors ensures you can enjoy a stress-free spring:
- Identify Triggers: Does your stress come from poor sleep quality, work-related stress, or Generalized Anxiety Disorder? Understanding what’s triggering your stress can help you choose the right supplements.
- Check Compatibility: If you’re taking medication or other supplements, check the recommendations. It’s also a good idea to consult with your healthcare professional.
- Allow Time: Supplements aren’t magic cures and your body will take time to utilize them. Don’t expect instant miracles, but pay attention to how your body and mind respond to the supplements over time.
The bottom line
Supplements will never be a fix-all solution, but they are proven to provide vital support for stress relief and anxiety. Choosing the right supplement for your needs means you can look forward to better mental health and enjoy everything the warmer days offer.
Shop our selection of supplements for stress this spring - and relax!
