Were are what we eat as the old adage goes, but how does this effect panic and anxiety? There are two aspects of food that in my opinion definitely do effect anxiety and panic attacks. Obviously what we eat effects how we feel and our overall emotional state. There are many theories as to what foods we should and should not be eating. Common aggravators are: Wheat products such as bread, bagels, cakes etc Dairy products High Sugar products Caffeine and other stimulants This list should be taken with a pinch of salt. There are many cases of these foodstuffs not being related to anxiety or panic attacks in the least. It is definitely worth experimenting by cutting out those products for some time, but it may not make a difference. Far better to turn food detective and root out exactly what is causing the problem. How to do this? By keeping a note of what you eat and looking for things that seem to be problem foods. And then cutting those foods out for at least a couple of weeks to see if there is a change. Keeping a food diary can be a pain, but it is worth the struggle. The second thing to think about is your eating style. Do you wolf down arm-fulls of food and then feel bloated? Do you take big bites and swallow almost without chewing? The keywords are “amount” and “speed”. Try eating your food extra slowly. Chew over each mouthful and really taste it. If you make an effort to do it for a week you will find that you enjoy your food much more, bloat less, eat less and may notice positive changes in your mood! It is a hard thing to do after years of scoffing, but it is worth it! And it can help you lose weight as well, which can also benefit your anxiety levels! Why does it help? Fear, anxiety and mood are all thought to be linked to your stomach although the exact connection is not fully understood. Certainly less bloating gives your diaphragm more room and allows you to breath correctly!
