Complementary Medicine, Exercise, Meditation, Diet, and Lifestyle Modification for Anxiety Disorders: A Review of Current Evidence

Abstract

Use of complementary medicines and therapies (CAM) and modification of lifestyle factors such as physical activity, exercise, and diet are being increasingly considered as potential therapeutic options for anxiety disorders. The objective of this metareview was to examine evidence across a broad range of CAM and lifestyle interventions in the treatment of anxiety disorders. In early 2012 we conducted a literature search of PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and the Cochrane Library, for key studies, systematic reviews, and metaanalyses in the area. Our paper found that in respect to treatment of generalized anxiety or specific disorders, CAM evidence revealed current support for the herbal medicine Kava. One isolated study shows benefit for naturopathic medicine, whereas acupuncture, yoga, and Tai chi have tentative supportive evidence, which is hampered by overall poor methodology. The breadth of evidence does not support homeopathy for treating anxiety. Strong support exists for lifestyle modifications including adoption of moderate exercise and mindfulness meditation, whereas dietary improvement, avoidance of caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine offer encouraging preliminary data. In conclusion, certain lifestyle modifications and some CAMs may provide a beneficial role in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Associations between Western and Mediterranean-type dietary patterns and anxiety and stress

“…Stress is also a growing public health problem in today's modern life and may directly affect the processes that leads to deterioration of psychological (e.g., depression) and metabolic diseases (MCEWEN, 2004). Although pharmacological interventions and psychotherapy are usual strategies for the treatment of psychiatric disorders, recent notions pose lifestyle modifi cations including dietary modifi cations and exercise for mental health promotion and effective prevention of mental distress (SARRIS et al, 2012).…”

Clinical Study of the Effectiveness of Pluralist Homeopathy in Generalized Anxiety Disorder

“…Conventional treatments, anxiolytics and/or antidepressants not always are successful to resolve satisfactorily the symptomatology, and it is logical to search for alternatives to help patients to solve their difficulties and to improve their ability to adapt to the environment. Changes in lifestyle and diet are an increasingly used approach for treating anxiety disorders [5]. Recent studies in experimental animals have shown that some homeopathic remedies have an anxiolytic effect comparable to conventional pharmacological treatments [6][7][8].…”

Mind–Body Therapies for Treating Anxiety

“…4 The researchers also state that anxiety disorders are often undertreated, and both of these issues may cause patients to seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies. 4 In fact, research has shown that people who have anxiety symptoms may turn to complementary therapies as frequently as they turn to conventional therapies. One survey that included more than 2000 respondents, found that 66% of respondents seen by conventional providers for anxiety attacks also used CAM therapies to address their anxiety.…”

“…4 They state: "Given that these techniques have traditionally been used as a daily practice over the course of the lifetime, it would be informative to conduct studies of longer duration." 4 Another trial looked at the effects of TM on blood pressure (BP), psychologic distress, and coping in nearly 300 university students. 10 Students were randomly assigned to a TM stressreduction program (20 minutes twice per day) or a wait-list, for 3 months.…”