1. High-Dose Vitamin B12 (Methylated Form)
Vitamin B12 comes with plenty of benefits; it's often praised for its energy-boosting properties, in particular. However, when taken in high doses—particularly in its methylated form—it could cause spikes in anxiety levels.
"Methylation is great, but too much of a good thing is a bad thing," explains Dr. Stephanie. "When you get over-methylated, you can get insomnia, agitation, anxiety, and really feel like you’re crawling out of your skin. It can be really scary." For those sensitive to these effects, even a small dose of methylated B12 can feel overwhelming, so it's best to practice caution.
2. Organ Supplements or Glandulars
Organ supplements, also known as glandulars, are made from animal organs such as thyroid, adrenal glands, or liver and could come with significant hormonal benefits. However, Dr. Stephanie warns that these supplements can trigger anxiety by raising the level of hormones like cortisol or thyroid hormones in your system.
"They contain thyroid, they can contain cortisol, and these can make you feel really anxious," she explains. When your body's hormones are stimulated in this way, it could mimic the body's stress response, leading to anxiety symptoms.
3. Pre-Workout Supplements
If you hit the gym on a regular basis, you may frequently take pre-workout supplements. Popular in the fitness community, these supplements typically contain energizing ingredients like caffeine and L-arginine, which can increase anxiety levels.
"Caffeine obviously can cause anxiety," says Dr. Stephanie, "but L-arginine, a precursor to nitric oxide, dilates vessels, so you can get heart palpitations, you can get hot, you can feel tingly." These physical sensations can feel similar to a panic attack—so you may be better off avoiding pre-workout if you already struggle with anxiety.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, while supplements can play a significant role in boosting your overall health, it's always important to keep the potential side effects in mind—whether you're prone to anxiety or not. Remember to always consult a healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your routine. As Dr. Stephanie emphasizes, being cautious can make all the difference in maintaining mental well-being.