Anxiety is a common condition that can cause a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. From a functional medicine perspective, anxiety is viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body, rather than a condition in and of itself. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatments of anxiety from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of anxiety

Anxiety can present in many different ways, depending on the individual and the type of anxiety they are experiencing. Some common symptoms of anxiety include:

• Excessive worry or fear
• Restlessness or agitation
• Fatigue or weakness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood swings
• Muscle tension or headaches
• Sweating or trembling
• Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or diarrhea

Causes of anxiety

Anxiety can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Chronic stress and emotional trauma
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Hormonal imbalances
• Environmental toxins
• Genetic predisposition
• Medical conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or adrenal fatigue

Treatments for anxiety

The treatment of anxiety from a functional medicine perspective typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications. Some common treatments for anxiety may include:

• Stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Dietary changes such as reducing sugar and caffeine intake and increasing consumption of whole foods
• Nutritional supplementation with key nutrients such as magnesium, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Balancing hormones through targeted supplementation or medication
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins
• Addressing underlying inflammation or infection through targeted supplementation or medication

Tests for anxiety

• Blood sugar
• Food intolerances
• Fructose intolerance
• Gluten intolerance
• Histamine intolerance
• Gut tests
• SIBO
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
• Neurotransmitters: Basic, Plus
• Heavy metals
• Organic acids

In conclusion, anxiety is a complex condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. From a functional medicine perspective, anxiety is viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the anxiety through a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications, patients can find relief from their symptoms and achieve optimal health and wellness.