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Read Dr. Elena Krasnov's Weekly Column in the Health & Fitness section of the 24 Hours Magazine. Look for new articles every week!

Monday, October 12, 2009

Food Related Panic Attacks

Q: Dear Elena: I have been a sufferer of panic attacks for the past 3 years and I have recently decided that I should start reading about ways to help myself. I read that certain foods can make panic attacks worse. How would I go about finding if and what foods are making my attacks worse?

A: If you feel like you could have an intolerance, allergy or sensitivity that is causing your attacks you are probably right.

There is some evidence that food sensitivities can precipitate panic attacks or make existing ones more severe or more frequent.

I find that alcohol, especially beer and wine are frequently involved. It seems that sensitivity to yeast and mold spores present in these beverages may be what are causing the problem. Often patients suffering from panic attacks also have other health issues that are somewhat related to the “alcohol allergy”. Other substances such as food additives/chemicals or medications may also be involved.

In cases such as yours, gut disbalance is often the cause. An inflamed bowel wall will let the offending food particles through causing what is known as “ leaky gut syndrome”. From there on, the offending food particles are free to circulate around and cause a number of reactions, some being able to exacerbate or precipitate a panic attack. This is often a reaction for those who are allergic to gluten.

To begin addressing your problem, start by healing your gut. Eliminate all offending foods such as alcohol, gluten, dairy, corn and eggs for a minimum of 3 to 4 months. During this time, it is a good idea to do an anti-Candida cleanse/treatment and to put good bacteria such as Lactobacillus Acidophilus back in. Often, you will notice a reduction in severity and frequency of your attacks. Eventually you would be able to pinpoint the culprits and stay away from them.

It is never a bad idea to make sure you are getting a good supply of B Complex vitamins. Taking good quality supplements would not hurt. Make sure that when you by you B Complex supplement they are free of additives such as corn and yeast. I have often found that herbs such as Relora are very helpful for those suffering from panic attacks and anxiety disorders.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online at 24hrs.ca

Co-written by Miranda Tallon-Malisani Holistic Nutritionist