Are there any supplements that can cause anxiety?: Navigating the Jittery Side of Nutrition

October 19, 2025 •

5 min read

According to research, many people with anxiety also suffer from poor nutrition, but the reverse can also be true. It is a well-established fact that while many supplements are promoted for their calming effects, some products actually contain ingredients that can trigger or exacerbate anxiety, leaving users restless and agitated. This article explores the question, are there any supplements that can cause anxiety?, examining common culprits and how to approach supplementation safely.

Quick Summary

Several types of dietary supplements, including stimulants, specific herbal extracts, and high-dose vitamins, have been linked to increased anxiety symptoms. Factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and interactions with other medications influence the risk. Understanding these ingredients helps make informed choices for managing mental health.

Key Points

Stimulants and Pre-Workouts: Supplements containing high levels of caffeine, guarana, or L-arginine can trigger anxiety by over-stimulating the nervous system and increasing heart rate.
High-Dose B Vitamins: Excessive intake of certain B vitamins, including B6, methylated B12, and folic acid, can be over-activating and lead to restlessness and anxiety.
Certain Herbal Supplements: Herbal remedies like ginseng, Yohimbe, and high-dose Rhodiola can have stimulating effects, while St. John's Wort can negatively interact with other medications, worsening anxiety.
Glandular Supplements: Products made from animal thyroid or adrenal glands can disrupt your body's natural hormone balance, leading to anxiety-like symptoms.
Individual Sensitivity is Key: Reactions to supplements vary widely. Those with a history of anxiety or a sensitivity to stimulants should approach new products with caution and start with low doses.
Consult a Professional: Always speak with a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you take other medications or have a pre-existing health condition.

Common Supplements that Can Cause Anxiety

Not all supplements are created equal, and some formulations designed to boost energy or mood can have unintended side effects for those sensitive to stimulants or prone to anxiety. Here’s a breakdown of common supplements and supplement ingredients that can cause anxiety.

Stimulants and Pre-Workout Formulas

Pre-workout supplements are a prime example of products that can trigger anxiety due to their high content of stimulating ingredients. These can cause heart palpitations, jitteriness, and feelings similar to a panic attack.

Caffeine: A well-known stimulant, caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure while boosting the body’s production of fight-or-flight hormones like cortisol and epinephrine. Excessive intake, whether from coffee, energy drinks, or supplements, can worsen existing anxiety or trigger new symptoms. Ingredients like guarana and green tea extract are also high in caffeine and should be consumed with caution.
L-arginine: A common ingredient in pre-workout supplements, L-arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels. In some individuals, this can lead to heart palpitations and a hot, tingly sensation that can feel like a panic attack.

Herbal and Botanical Supplements

While many herbal remedies are praised for their calming properties, some can have the opposite effect, especially in high doses or when mixed with other medications.

Ginseng: Often used for energy and focus, ginseng can cause nervousness, insomnia, and a rapid heartbeat, particularly when taken in high doses.
St. John's Wort: This herb is known for its mood-boosting effects, but it can also cause agitation and anxiety. It can interact dangerously with antidepressants, potentially leading to a serious condition called serotonin syndrome.
Yohimbe: Used for energy and performance, yohimbe can trigger restlessness, rapid heart rate, and panic attacks. It is particularly risky when combined with other stimulants.
Rhodiola: An adaptogenic herb used to combat fatigue and stress, Rhodiola can sometimes worsen anxiety symptoms in higher doses or in sensitive individuals.

High-Dose Vitamins and Multivitamins

Paradoxically, excessive amounts of certain vitamins, especially B-complex vitamins, can have a stimulating effect on the nervous system that leads to anxiety.

Vitamin B Complex: High doses of B vitamins are metabolic activators, which can be over-stimulating for some people. This can cause restlessness, worry, and difficulty sleeping, particularly in those sensitive to stimulants.
High-Dose B6 and B12: Specifically, excessive vitamin B6 can interfere with neurotransmitter balance, increasing nervousness. High doses of methylated B12 can also lead to over-methylation, causing agitation and anxiety.
Folic Acid: High amounts of synthetic folic acid (greater than 400 mcg per day) can be over-activating to the brain and body.
Multivitamins: These can contain high doses of stimulating B vitamins or synthetic ingredients that some individuals react poorly to.

Glandular Supplements

Adrenal or Thyroid Glandulars: Some supplements are made from animal organs like the adrenal or thyroid glands. These can trigger anxiety by artificially raising hormone levels, such as cortisol or thyroid hormones, mimicking the body's stress response.

Comparison Table: Anxiety-Inducing vs. Calming Supplements


Feature	Anxiety-Inducing Supplements	Calming Supplements
Common Ingredients	Caffeine, L-arginine, Guarana, Ginseng, Yohimbe, High-dose B vitamins (B6, methylated B12), St. John's Wort, Adrenal/Thyroid glandulars	Magnesium, L-theanine, Ashwagandha, Omega-3s, Chamomile, Valerian Root, CBD
Primary Mechanism	Stimulates the central nervous system, increases fight-or-flight hormones, over-activates metabolic pathways.	Promotes muscle relaxation, supports healthy nervous system function, and modulates stress response.
Effect on Mood	Increased nervousness, agitation, restlessness, and panic-like symptoms.	Calming, improved sleep quality, reduced perceived stress levels, relaxation.
Typical Use Case	Energy enhancement, pre-workout boost, weight loss, focus improvement.	Stress management, sleep support, mood regulation, overall well-being.
Who Should Be Cautious	Individuals with anxiety disorders, those sensitive to stimulants, people on certain medications.	While generally safe, individuals should still start with low doses and monitor effects, especially when mixing with other meds.

Mitigating the Risk of Supplement-Induced Anxiety

Managing your supplement intake can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing anxiety symptoms. The following strategies provide a safer approach to incorporating supplements into your diet:

Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before adding any new supplement to your routine, especially if you have a history of anxiety or are taking medication, talk to a doctor or a registered dietitian. They can help assess your individual needs and potential risks.
Start Low and Go Slow: When trying a new supplement, begin with the lowest possible dosage and monitor your body's reaction. This is particularly important for metabolic activators like B vitamins or adaptogens.
Read the Labels Carefully: Pay close attention to ingredient lists. Be wary of proprietary blends in energy or weight loss formulas that don't disclose specific amounts of stimulants like caffeine or guarana.
Listen to Your Body: If you notice an increase in heart rate, jitteriness, or irritability after starting a new supplement, it may be the cause of your heightened anxiety. Stop taking the supplement and discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider.
Separate Doses: In some cases, separating the intake of medications and vitamins by a few hours can help reduce interactions and negative effects.
Prioritize Whole Foods: Instead of relying solely on supplements, focus on getting nutrients from whole food sources. For example, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds provide natural magnesium and B vitamins, reducing the risk of over-stimulation.
Consider Your Total Intake: Take into account your total intake of stimulating substances. If you are already a regular coffee drinker, adding a high-caffeine supplement could push you over your tolerance threshold and trigger anxiety.

Conclusion

While many supplements offer valuable support for overall health, it is crucial to recognize that not all are benign, especially when it comes to mental health. The answer to the question, are there any supplements that can cause anxiety?, is a definitive yes, with several categories presenting potential risks. Supplements containing stimulants like caffeine, high-dose B vitamins, and certain herbal extracts can all contribute to or worsen anxiety symptoms, particularly for those with pre-existing sensitivities. By carefully researching ingredients, consulting with a healthcare professional, and listening to your body, you can make informed choices that support your mental well-being rather than undermining it. Safe and effective supplementation should always be a thoughtful and personalized process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, high doses of B-complex vitamins, especially B6 and methylated B12, can be over-activating to the nervous system in some individuals, leading to restlessness, agitation, and anxiety.

If you are prone to anxiety, you should be cautious with or avoid herbs like ginseng, St. John's Wort, Yohimbe, and high doses of Rhodiola, as they can cause or worsen symptoms.

Pre-workout supplements often contain high amounts of stimulants like caffeine and L-arginine, which can increase heart rate and induce sensations like palpitations and jitteriness, mimicking a panic attack.

For some sensitive individuals, a multivitamin can trigger anxiety or panic attacks. This may be due to high doses of stimulating B vitamins or certain fillers and synthetic ingredients present in the supplement.

Glandular supplements, derived from animal organs like the thyroid or adrenals, can introduce extra hormones into your system. This hormonal imbalance can trigger a stress response and lead to increased anxiety.

If you experience a rapid heart rate, jitteriness, or increased nervousness shortly after starting a new supplement, it may be the cause. Discontinue use and monitor if your symptoms improve.

Yes, some supplements are known to have a calming effect, including magnesium, L-theanine (found in green tea), ashwagandha, and omega-3 fatty acids. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.