OCD and Nutrition OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that affects 2.3% of the American population aged 18 to 54. This condition is characterized by an irrational reaction or unwanted thoughts, obsessions, need for repetitive rituals and compulsions. Symptoms usually appear during early childhood or adolescence and the exact cause is still unknown. Some people thought that OCD manifested itself in personality defects and poor upbringing, but this is not the case. OCD impacts the communication systems in the brain and, according to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, it produces a chemical imbalance in the brain in which low levels of serotonin have been recorded. Serotonin plays an essential role in regulating mood, learning, calm and sleep. Several medications can help with behavioral therapy for OCD, as it is known to be incurable. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs help increase serotonin levels in the brain, leading to a reduction in OCD symptoms. Nutritional TherapyA nutritious diet may not prevent the onset of OCD, but it can help manage symptoms with medications, supplements, and mental health care. health therapy.Tryptophan – This amino acid promotes the formation of serotonin which is essential for mood regulation. It has been shown to be effective in the treatment of OCD and has also been shown to be effective for other anxiety disorders. This is formed from precursor coenzymes found in B vitamins. Examples of foods high in tryptophan are elk meat, goat, algae, soy, spinach, crabs, halibut and shrimp. Inositol - Inositol is a nutrient related to the vitamin B complex, necessary for the proper formation of cell membranes. It has the ability to affect nerve transmission as...... middle of paper ......sis. Vitamin B5 is also important for the adrenals when it comes to modulating stress. Vitamin B12 and folic acid help combat heart stress if you suffer from anxiety and depression. Spirulina – This dietary supplement is known to contain RNA which has been shown to benefit the nervous system. It helps nourish myelin sheaths and nerves, which helps reduce OCD symptoms. Magnesium – Magnesium is a calming mineral that helps minimize the release of stress hormones in the body. There is still little scientific evidence for the effectiveness of magnesium, but several research shows that herbal supplements containing magnesium may be effective in relieving depression, anxiety, and stress. Lactium – Lactium is a supplement derived from the casein protein found in milk. It helps reduce stress-related symptoms, including anxiety and panic attacks..