Functional Medicine and Anxiety

Published on March 1, 2023

Kansas City, Lawrence, Wichita Functional Medicine

In recent years, the health specialty of functional medicine has gained traction as a great treatment option for many individuals due to its holistic approach to treating chronic health conditions. EvoHealth Kansas Functional Medicine is a functional medicine clinic that offers comprehensive and personalized care to people in Kansas City, Overland Park, Lawrence, Wichita, Topeka and to Kansans all over the state. Kansas City, Missouri, USA Skyline

Root Cause of Anxiety

Dr. Tanner Wilson, DC, IFMCP is a IFM certified functional medicine doctor at EvoHealth and he views anxiety as a multifactorial condition, meaning that there are multiple factors that can contribute to its development. Some of the root causes of anxiety that functional medicine practitioners may consider include:

Gut health: Research has shown that there is a strong connection between the gut and the brain, with the gut often referred to as the “second brain”. An imbalance of gut bacteria or inflammation in the gut can contribute to the development of anxiety.

Nutrient deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, such as magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins, can impact brain function and contribute to anxiety.

Chronic stress: Chronic stress can lead to an overactive stress response system, which can contribute to anxiety.

Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the body can contribute to anxiety, as it can impact neurotransmitter function and lead to changes in mood.

Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as low levels of thyroid hormone or imbalances in sex hormones, can contribute to anxiety.

Genetics: While anxiety is not caused by a single gene, there is evidence to suggest that genetics can play a role in its development.

Root Cause Sign on white paper. Man Hand Holding Paper with tex

Holistic Treatments for Anxiety in Kansas

At EvoHealth Kansas Functional Medicine our goal is to provide additional holistic therapies to conventional medical management like cognitive behavioral therapy and medication management.

Some Holistic Treatment for Anxiety include:

Nutritional Therapy

Nutritional therapy is the foundation of a functional medicine approach to managing anxiety. By identifying nutrient deficiencies and imbalances in the body, practitioners can develop personalized plans that help support overall health and wellness. In the case of anxiety, nutritional therapy can help address imbalances in neurotransmitters, hormones, and other physiological factors that contribute to symptoms.

Some key nutrients that may be helpful for anxiety include magnesium, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, especially if an individual is deficient. These nutrients can be obtained through a healthy diet, supplements, or a combination of both. Nutritional therapy may also involve eliminating certain foods or food groups that may exacerbate anxiety symptoms, such as caffeine or sugar.

2.Exercise Prescription:

A personalized exercise prescription is a great therapeutic option for anxiety. Exercise has been shown to

-Releases Endorphins

Endorphins are chemicals produced by the body that can reduce pain and increase feelings of pleasure and well-being. Exercise is known to stimulate the release of endorphins, which can help reduce symptoms of anxiety.

-Reduces Cortisol

Cortisol is a stress hormone that can contribute to feelings of anxiety when produced in excess. Exercise has been shown to reduce cortisol levels in the body, which can help reduce anxiety symptoms.

-Increases Serotonin and GABA

Serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are neurotransmitters in the brain that can have a calming effect on the nervous system. Exercise has been shown to increase the production of both serotonin and GABA, which can help reduce anxiety symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes

At EvoHealth Kansas Functional Medicine Dr. Tanner Wilson, DC, IFMCP will often recommend lifestyle changes as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for anxiety. This may include sleep optimization, HRV based biofeedback, and other stress management techniques.

Nutraceuticals

The targeted and evidence-informed use of nutraceuticals is another tool in the functional medicine toolbox that can be helpful for anxiety. Several natural compounds have been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, including Silexan, L-Theanine, Valerian Root and PS150.

Jar of pills isolate. White plastic jar for medical pills, drugs and vitamins on a blank blue background.