Technically “Burnout” is not classified as a specific condition, but it’s a major cause of stress for many people. The mental, emotional and physical effects of work stress can be crippling for many of us who are juggling lots of different responsibilities. Fortunately, there are many key nutrients that may help you cope with work-related stress and its effects on your health.
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands. Burnout was once called an “occupational phenomenon” by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is described as “resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” Unfortunately, thanks to the pandemic, work and home life have become intertwined, leaving us with an impossibly long “to-do” list and no time to decompress from one stressor before we begin another.
Wondering if you are experiencing burnout?
Here are some common signs and symptoms of burnout:
- Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion
- Feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job
- Feeling unsuccessful at your work or that your talents are being wasted
- Increased mental and emotional distance from your work
The mental, emotional and physical effects of work stress are well documented and include everything from GI distress to sleep concerns. Although many steps must be taken to conquer burnout, research shows there are some key nutrients that may also help you manage your stress while taking a holistic approach.
A 2018 study published in the journal Nutrients described how a combination of certain nutrients helped burned out workers cope better with their stress. In this study the key nutrients included:
- Taurine (an essential amino acid during times of illness and stress)
- L-ornithine (an amino acid that may decrease fatigue during exercise & stress)
- L-phenylalanine (an amino acid that plays a role in our mood, pain perception, and inflammation)
- L-tyrosine (an amino acid that plays an important role in our moods like anxiety & depression)
- Vitamin C (a potent antioxidant and immune booster)
- Vitamin B1 (necessary for metabolism and nerve health)
- Vitamin B2 (a critical vitamin for metabolism and breaking down proteins & carbs)
- Vitamin B6 (a critical vitamin for the processing of proteins and hormones like serotonin, dopamine, & melatonin)
- Niacin (a vitamin that regulates cholesterol levels)
- Pantothenic acid (necessary for energy production and production of cholesterol)
- Folic Acid (necessary for DNA health & prevents spinal birth defects)
- Vitamin B12 (necessary for normal nerve cell activity)
- Magnesium (an essential nutrient for several reactions in our body)
- Zinc (involved in over 300 different enzymes for wound repair, fertility, etc.)
- Selenium (an essential trace mineral)
Molybdenum (an essential trace mineral)
These nutrients are a combination of amino acids (the building blocks of protein), B vitamins, and minerals. All of which are designed to help us nourish our nervous systems, manage our stress response, and regain our energy & vitality.
In this study, all of the 59 participants were given a combination of supplements and at the end of the 12 week study they noted an improved sense of joy along with reduced overload, irritability, fatigue, and tension.
Workplace stress is a significant concern for many, especially as companies are operating with less employees (putting the majority of the burden on their current employees). Ready to say goodbye to burnout & exhaustion and hello to more joy & energy? Let’s chat…click below to book a FREE 30 minute wellness call. Let’s work together to reduce your stress!
Ellis Family Wellness 
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