Stress can be defined as any physical, emotional, or chemical event or factor that causes mental or physical tension. While many people think of stress as being strictly psychological in nature, physicians use this term to denote anything that impairs the stability and balance of bodily functions.

A mild degree of stress and tension can sometimes be beneficial. Feeling mildly stressed when carrying out a project or assignment can make us do a good job and to work energetically. Likewise, exercising can produce a temporary stress on some body functions, but its health benefits are indisputable. It is only when stress is overwhelming, or poorly managed, that its negative effects appear.

Poorly managed stress can result in anxiety & tension, anger, headaches, loss of concentration, sleep disturbances, mild to severe bouts of depression, lack of interest in food or increased appetite, or any number of other symptoms.

Since stress can affect people in many different ways, we've identified certain combinations of nutrients and natural extracts that work on multiple levels to relieve the many symptoms of stress. Some work to improve and elevate mood; some are designed to restore our body's sensitivity to the stress hormone, cortisoi, and some utilize a remarkable group of substances called adaptogens. Adaptogens have been used effectively for thousands of years to help the body adapt to stresses of all kinds.