From the Guidelines
A balanced meal rich in complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, such as the Mediterranean diet, can help manage severe anxiety and OCD symptoms, as suggested by the most recent study 1. When considering dietary approaches to manage severe anxiety and OCD, it's essential to prioritize a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy and possibly medication.
- Focus on whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa, which provide sustained energy and fiber.
- Include lean proteins like chicken, fish, beans, and nuts, which support brain health and satisfaction.
- Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and support brain function.
- Leafy greens, berries, and fermented foods like yogurt provide essential antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. A sample meal might include grilled salmon with quinoa, steamed broccoli, and a side salad with walnuts.
- Eat regularly throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels, as fluctuations can trigger anxiety.
- Stay hydrated and limit caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods, which can worsen symptoms. While diet can be a helpful adjunct to treatment, severe anxiety and OCD typically require professional treatment, including therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 1, and possibly medication.
- Consult with healthcare providers for personalized guidance, as they can help determine the best course of treatment and provide support throughout the recovery process. It's also important to note that a low FODMAP diet may be beneficial for some individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and co-occurring anxiety or depression, but it should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Meal Recommendations for Improving Severe Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- There is evidence to suggest that a diet rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and OCD 2.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, have been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms and may be a useful adjunct to traditional treatments 3, 4.
- A diet that includes foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, nuts, and seeds, may be beneficial for individuals with anxiety and OCD.
- Other dietary factors that may be associated with reduced anxiety symptoms include:
- High consumption of fruits and vegetables
- "Healthy" dietary patterns
- Caloric restriction
- Breakfast consumption
- Ketogenic diet
- Broad-spectrum micronutrient supplementation
- Zinc, magnesium, and selenium
- Probiotics
- Phytochemicals 5
- On the other hand, dietary factors that may be associated with higher levels of anxiety include:
- High-fat diet
- Inadequate tryptophan and dietary protein
- High intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates
- "Unhealthy" dietary patterns 5
Key Nutrients and Supplements
- Omega-3 fatty acids: EPA, DHA, and DPA have been shown to have a protective effect against anxiety disorders 4.
- Amino acids: may be converted to neurotransmitters that alleviate depression and other mental disorders, including anxiety and OCD 2.
- Broad-spectrum micronutrient supplementation: may be beneficial for individuals with anxiety and OCD, although more research is needed to determine the best recommended doses 2, 5.
Future Research Directions
- More research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and duration of omega-3 supplementation for anxiety reduction 3.
- High-quality intervention studies involving participants with anxiety disorders are warranted to further explore the relationship between diet and anxiety 5.
- The role of nutrition in psychiatric care has been identified as a priority by international organizations, and further research is needed to advance the field 6.