5 NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS FOR THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Discover five of the best natural supplements to help you regulate your nervous system.

Loren Hogue
Co-CEO, NEUROFIT
4 MINUTE READ
JAN 11, 2025

When your nervous system falls out of balance, it can create a wide range of physical and emotional challenges. As someone who has navigated the ups and downs of nervous system regulation, I have found that natural supplements can play a powerful role in supporting overall well-being.

You'll know your nervous system is becoming more balanced when you find yourself starting to spend more time in the regulated states at the top of the NEUROFIT Ring:

The NEUROFIT Ring shows the six possible nervous system states, and the transitions between them.

Let's go over five natural supplements that can help you regulate your nervous system effectively.

1. Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body.

3 out of 4 adults are magnesium deficient, and yet it's particularly important for nerve function and muscle relaxation.

Benefits:

Helps reduce muscle tension and chronic pain

Supports overall relaxation and sleep quality.

Can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression

Practical Application:

Take a magnesium supplement daily, preferably in the evening to aid in sleep.

Include magnesium-rich foods in your diet like spinach, almonds, black beans, and avocados.

Try magnesium baths or topical magnesium oils for direct absorption.

Signs of Deficiency:

Muscle cramps and spasms

Anxiety and irritability

Sleep disturbances

Chronic stress builds up in the body over time, affecting our physiology. Magnesium can help you mitigate some of these effects.

Chronic stress builds up in the nervous system, leading to mental and physical health challenges.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their role in brain health. They are vital for nervous system function and overall mental health.

Benefits:

Reduces inflammation throughout the body.

Supports cognitive function and reduces symptoms of depression

Improves overall mood and emotional balance

Practical Application:

Take a high-quality fish oil supplement daily.

Include omega-3 rich foods in your diet like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

If you are vegetarian or vegan, consider algae-based omega-3 supplements.

Signs of Deficiency:

Dry skin and hair.

Poor memory and cognitive function.

Mood swings and depression.

3. B Vitamins

B vitamins - particularly B1, B6, and B12 - are crucial for nervous system health. They help in the production of neurotransmitters and support overall brain function.

Benefits:

Supports energy levels and reduces fatigue.

Enhances mood and mental clarity.

Aids in the production of serotonin and dopamine

Practical Application:

Take a B-complex supplement to cover all essential B vitamins.

Include B vitamin-rich foods in your diet like eggs, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens

Regularly monitor your B vitamin levels, especially if following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Signs of Deficiency:

Fatigue and weakness.

Depression and irritability.

Cognitive decline and memory issues.

4. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to help the body manage stress. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to support overall well-being.

Benefits:

Reduces cortisol levels and helps manage stress

Supports emotional balance and mental clarity.

Enhances energy levels and reduces feelings of fatigue.

Practical Application:

Take an ashwagandha supplement daily, either in capsule or powder form.

Add ashwagandha powder to smoothies or teas.

Consider combining ashwagandha with other adaptogens for enhanced effects.

5. L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid commonly found in green tea. It is known for promoting relaxation without causing drowsiness, making it an excellent supplement for nervous system regulation.

Benefits:

Promotes relaxation and reduces stress

Enhances focus and cognitive performance

Supports better sleep quality.

Practical Application:

Take L-theanine supplements, especially during times of high stress.

Drink green tea regularly to naturally boost L-theanine intake.

Combine with a bit of caffeine when neededfor a balanced and focused energy boost.

By using the NEUROFIT App, you can monitor the effects of the above supplements on your heart rate, HRV and nervous system balance over time, without needing a wearable:

The NEUROFIT App's camera-based HRV tech lets you measure your Heart Rate, HRV and more without needing a wearable.

Personal Insights and NEUROFIT's Approach

During my journey to understand and regulate my nervous system, I discovered the profound impact that natural supplements can have. After the sudden passing of my father, I faced severe anxiety and sleep disturbances. Adding supplements like magnesium and ashwagandha into my routine noticeably improved in my overall well-being.

Somatic exercises (quick nervous system workouts) also helped significantly in resetting my nervous system during times of anxiety and stress. Next time you feel stressed out, I highly recommend trying a few minutes of Body Tapping:

Body Tapping - Body tapping with balled fists to bring oneself back into the body.

At NEUROFIT, we emphasize the importance of a balanced nervous system in promoting physical, mental, and social well-being. Our NEUROFIT app helps users understand and regulate their nervous systems with daily check-ins, biometric measurements, and personalized exercises. It's all about making small, consistent changes that lead to significant results.

The NEUROFIT App's guided nervous system program is designed to reduce stress and resolve burnout within a few weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best natural supplements for nervous system regulation?

5 of the best natural supplements for nervous system regulation include magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, ashwagandha, and L-theanine. These naturally occurring supplements all support nerve function, reduce stress, and promote overall mental and emotional balance.

How can I tell if I have a magnesium deficiency?

Common signs of deficiency include muscle cramps, fatigue, irritability, anxiety and sleep disturbances. If you experience these symptoms, consider consulting a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and supplementation advice.

Can I take all these supplements together?

For the avoidance of doubt, consult with a healthcare provider and follow recommended dosages to ensure they are appropriate for your specific needs.

How quickly can I expect to see results from these supplements?

Results can vary depending on the individual and the supplement. Some people may notice improvements within a few days, while others might take a few weeks to experience significant benefits. Consistency is key for the best outcomes.

Remember, regulating your nervous system is a journey that involves both natural supplements and lifestyle changes. By understanding your body's needs and taking proactive steps, you can achieve greater balance and well-being.

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About The Author
Loren Hogue
Co-CEO, NEUROFIT
Loren is a co-founder of NEUROFIT, and a Master Somatics + Business Coach with a decade of experience coaching thousands of clients worldwide.
After facing years of chronic stress, burnout, and nervous system dysregulation after a loss in her family, she launched NEUROFIT as a fast, effective and accessible solution to these challenges.
Today, the NEUROFIT app is used by 2,000+ leading doctors, therapists, and health coaches, reaching 100,000+ users in 100+ countries.
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