Carbs And Agoraphobia

If you have agoraphobia you may want to consider modifying your diet. Diet plays an important role (no matter what), but when you suffer from an anxiety disorder, especially agoraphobia, any improvement helps!

A diet high in refined carbohydrates has been linked with higher levels of perceived anxiety and with all anxiety disorders including agoraphobia.

Unrefined carbs require very little digestion and as a result they charge through your body giving you a quick burst of energy due to the sudden high level of sugar in your blood. That all too familiar "jolt" of energy can feel good but the "sugar high" can also create feelings of anxiety. Couple unrefined sugars with caffeine and you have a recipe for trouble in many people who are sensitive to the effects.

Make Changes Towards Healthier Foods

If you are concerned about carbs and agoraphobia, it is recommneded that you look closely at your diet and see where changes can be made.

You don't need totally eliminate carbs instantly if you feel that is too much. Try to gradually ease into healthier changes instead if that works better for you.

Simple sugars like candy or soda pop should definitely be reduced until you rarely eat them. Try eating complex carbs such as fresh fruits and vegetables instead, as these are not only better but will make you feel bettter and can improve agoraphobia.

Complex carbs generally help to maintain good mental health. They are also good for stabilizing your blood sugar levels. Low levels can cause feelings of anxiety, which won't help your agoraphobia.

Want to Get Even More Healthy?

Try adding more vegetable proteins and reduce meat proteins. Tofu is an excellent source of protein. Soy products generally are very good, as they contain isoflavones, which has numerous health benefits.

Proteins and fats help to extend the time it takes for sugars to be absorbed into your bloodstream and also aid the absorption of important minerals and vitamins.

Thought all fats were bad? Refined altered fats are not good for you and excess fat is bad, but your body needs good fats such as that found in olive oil, avocados, fish and other sources to carry out many important chemical processes within the body.

Importance Of Minerals

Unrefined carbohydrates are also usually high in vitamins and minerals too.

Having agoraphobia is stressful. Minerals like calcium, phosphorus and potassium can be depleted as a result of stress. Help maintain proper levels by eating foods like bananas, broccoli, yogurt, brown rice, fish and nuts.

Brown rice is a complex carb which contains thiamine, or vitamin B1. This helps with neurotransmitter production and healthy nerve function. This may help improve your anxiety and agoraphobia.

Other examples of foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals include fresh fruit, legumes and whole grains.

Difference Between Refined & Unrefined Carbs

When a natural food has it's nutrients and goodness removed so that it 'tastes' better and lasts longer, this is an example of something being refined. Whole wheat flour is unrefined. It still contains all of it's pure fiber and nutrients.

Do not look at carbs and agoraphobia as a change that will produce miracles. There will be lots of other little changes to be made that are generally helpful. Using every means at your disposal should help, but some carbs can certainly aggravate your situation.

Carbs and Agorpahobia Related Resources

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