 Tweet (NewsTarget) Anxiety manifests itself differently in people, but symptoms may include a lack of energy, mental confusion, dizziness, fears or irritability. Eating the correct foods and taking certain supplements have aided many sufferers to combat anxiety attacks. A diet high in refined sugars may contribute to anxious feelings or mood swings. Some studies indicate that anxiety sufferers derive up to 75 percent of their calories from refined carbohydrates and sugars. There may also be a history of liver disorders, mal-absorption of food and/or fluctuating blood sugar levels. One approach in treating anxiety is to increase or improve liver function with the correct diet, usually one that is low in sugar and free from junk food and refined carbohydrates. Tea, coffee and alcohol are eliminated because they can jeopardize optimal liver function. Calcium rich foods are sometimes recommended in the prevention of anxiety attacks. Foods naturally high in calcium include almonds, Brazil nuts, broccoli, oysters, salmon, sardines, sesame seeds, dark green leafy vegetables, raw milk, egg yolks and molasses. In the case of fluctuating blood sugar levels, foods high in vitamin B5 are usually recommended. Foods high in vitamin B5 are avocados, bean sprouts, eggs, free range beef, lentils, mushrooms, mackerel, watermelons and pineapples. Mineral salts that alleviate anxiety Tissue salts are the minerals which should be present in the human body in perfect balance. Tissue salts are readily available and safe to take. However, vitamins and mineral supplements should always be tailored to an individual's needs. Therefore, a visit to a qualified naturopathic practitioner or homeopath is always recommended. Kali. Phos. (tissue salt no. 6) is one of the most important tissue salts for the mental symptoms of worry, distress or dread. Two tablets dissolved under the tongue every half hour will lift and lighten the mood . Those who exhibit reclusive traits or who avoid being part of any demanding situation will greatly benefit from this mineral. Mag. Phos. (tissue salt no. 8) helps in cases of unreasonable moods or outbursts. Mag. Phos will also help restless sleepers and those who are prone to night terrors and fears. Nat. Sulph. (tissue salt no. 11) can counter feelings of anxiety , depression and discouragement. Two tablets of Nat. Sulph. taken four to six times a day can help to relieve these symptoms. It also helps those experiencing anxiety-ridden feelings of being overly burdened with life's problems. Nat. Mur. (tissue salt no. 9) helps with feelings of despair or gloom. Taken regularly, it will help balance those who live on a 'short fuse', making them less aggressive and impatient. Sources: Tissue Salts for Healthy Living by Margaret Roberts, published by Struik, 2002 edition, pages 40, 41 and 57 - 60. Foods for Moods byWilliam Vayda, published by Geddes & Grosset, 2007 edition, pages 15 - 24 and 43 - 48. http://www.iol.co.za/lifestyle/food-drink/fo... http://www.iol.co.za/lifestyle/food-drink/fo... About the author Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer. She is passionate about natural, healthy living and is currently studying to be a naturopath. She divides her time between writing for selfnews and various other sites, home schooling her children and studying part time. 