Studies Show That This Food May Be Better Than Xanax For Relieving Stress

Your heart races as the waves of panic begin to wash over you. Even though you know it’s irrational, you can’t control the distress yourself. As you reach for the Xanax, however, you can’t help but wonder if there isn’t a more natural solution that doesn’t rely on a trip to the pharmacy. And, apparently, there is. According to science, the answer to calming your worries may even be in your fridge right now.

Common affliction

If that scenario sounds familiar, though, then you’re not alone. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), just over 18 percent of adults in the U.S. – or around 40 million people – are afflicted by anxiety disorders every year. And for some, the related symptoms are so intense that they’re even admitted into hospital.

A frightening experience

Those who have experienced panic attacks will know just how frightening they are – not least because the effects mimic those of heart attacks on occasion. But, of course, there are ways to treat these periods of extreme anxiety – or, indeed, stop them from arising in the first place.

Popular prescription

For example, in the U.S. doctors commonly prescribe alprazolam – widely known by its brand name Xanax – for anxiety disorders. This drug soothes panic attacks that may be brought on by worry, phobias, and stress, and it’s also a hugely popular solution for milder or chronic bouts of anxiety.

Xanax in the body

But what is Xanax, and how does it work? Well, alprazolam actually belongs to a group of tranquilizers and sedatives called benzodiazepines that make you feel more relaxed. Benzodiazepines interact with chemicals in your body called neurotransmitters, which are your brain’s way of sending messages around your system.