You need to be aware of the foods that cause anxiety so you can stop eating them.

The good bacteria that live in your gut are very important in the production of the neurotransmitters in your brain, including serotonin and GABA.  These two neurotransmitters help to reduce stress hormones.  Any food that can interfere with your gut bacteria can potentially cause stress.  Listed below are some of the top foods that cause anxiety.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant, which can lead to anxiety.

Artificial Sweeteners

Aspartame may significantly reduce serotonin levels.  Serotonin is a natural mood stabilizer and studies (link) have linked low serotonin levels to depression.  One study indicated that it worsened symptoms of anxiety.

Sucralose has been shown to kill off the good bacteria in the gut, which is essential to produce neurotransmitters.

Caffeinated Beverages

Coffee and Tea both have health benefits.

There are many other types of caffeinated beverages that do not contain health benefits.

However, caffeine is a stimulant on the nervous system.  For some people, the stimulant effect can bring on a bout of anxiety.

Chlorinated Water

Chlorine is known to kill the good bacteria in the gut, which may lead to anxiety.

Food Dyes

Dyes such as Red #40 and Yellow #5 can disrupt the nervous system causing anxiety.  This has been especially studied in children with ADHD (link 1) (link 2)

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

HFCS is sweeter than sugar, causes over eating and cravings along with weight gain.  All of which can increase anxiety.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

MSG is a flavor enhancer commonly used on many types of foods from Beef Jerky to frozen dinners to Chinese Food.  It can elevate levels of glutamate in the brain.  Glutamate is an excitatory substance.

Partially Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats)

Many scientists refer to trans fats as franken fats because they are man-made in heavily processed foods.  Trans Fats are used in a variety of foods that are processed, such as cookies, potato chips, French fries and fried foods.  We know that these trans fats are very harmful to the circulatory system and brain health.

Refined Carbohydrates

Foods that are primarily carbohydrates that have been refined, such as pasta, crackers, donuts, white rice and candy.  These foods cause a rapid rise in blood sugar, which is associated with being anxious and nervous.

As you can see, the foods that cause anxiety are regular things that most people consume.  It will help when you replace these bad foods with the Foods that Decrease Anxiety click here: link.