Keep Stress From Ruining the Holidays

The holidays are supposed to bring smiles to our faces. After all we're visiting with relative and friends, and bestowing gifts on the ones we love. So how come so many people are generally stressed and sad come the holidays?

According to the American Institute of Stress, more than 110 million Americans take medication for stress related causes each week. Those who are predisposed to stress and the various side effects, including depression, panic attacks, physical pain, fatigue, and nervousness, can find themselves even worse off during the holidays.

Many blame this overwhelmed feeling on the seemingly unending list of things that need to get done during the holiday season -- on top of normal daily tasks. From shopping to visiting to attending holiday functions, some argue that the level of activity can take its toll. However, elevated stress levels may be a combination of factors, including a deficiency in B vitamins say health experts. Meals on the go while shopping or overindulgence in unhealthy foods can contribute to nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing your diet can be a way to head off stress and be able to enjoy the holiday season.

B vitamins play a number of roles in the body, many of which revolve around proper nervous system function. A body that is deficient in B vitamins may be prone to many nervous system dysfunctions, including feeling anxious and stressed. The condition compounds itself when stress is repeatedly thrust on the body. The body is forced to use up stores of nutrients in the bloodstream that would keep a person feeling calm and balanced. Without replenishing nutrients, and with the constant onslaught of stress, the nervous system shuts down. Dr. Michael Pinkus equates essential B vitamins to the oil in your car. "A car cannot run for long without oil because the engine would burn up. The nervous system has similar requirements," he offers.

Managing stress is a two-sided effort. A person must balance the nutrients on the inside of the body to help regain the proper levels, while also taking steps to reduce behavior that will lead to stressful situations. While B vitamins are found in a wide variety of foods, the potency can be lost during the cooking and preparation process. Medications, alcohol and caffeine can deplete your body of these essential nutrients as well. Supplementation with a quality product can help bring up levels of these important vitamins.

Vital B-100&trade balances all of the key B vitamins along with support nutrients to help buffer your body from the negative effects of stress. Vital B-100&trade is safe for both adults and children and can be taken daily. The B family of vitamins plus support nutrients work together for total nerve support. Support nutrients include vitamins C and E and manganese for their antioxidant properties. A trace mineral complex helps to complete nerve support and the formulation. All ingredients are hypoallergenic, water-soluble and contain no preservatives, artificial flavors or colors. Many customers who use Vital B-100&trade formulas report temporary relief from occasional symptoms associated with stress such as stiff neck/shoulders, anxiety, hyperactivity, fatigue and nervousness in as soon as two weeks.

In terms of behavioral changes to employ to help ward off stress, here are some ideas to consider.

* Exercise is an effective stress reducer. Make the time to engage in physical activities that will get endorphins and mood-boosting chemicals flowing throughout the body.

* Ask for help if you feel that tasks are too much to handle. Simply having someone around to take care of a chore or two can make a world of difference.

* Know that you're not alone. Many people suffer from stress, especially during the holiday season. Talking about your situation with others can help let off steam.

* Choose nutritional foods whenever possible. It may be easier to grab fast food at the mall food court while holiday shopping, but that greasy treat may do more harm than good. Pack nutritious snacks, such as fresh vegetables, nuts rich in omega fatty acids, and whole-wheat crackers that can provide a carboydrate push to get you through the crowds.

To learn more about Vital B-10, call 1-800-498-1458 and mention code VM21, or visit www.drnewtons.com.