Niacin, anxiety and alcohol
 

I thought I might mention my experience (I'm self centered, entirely) with "alcohol creep". I live in wine country and a land where wine in moderation has been a center piece of existence for centuries. But I noticed that all types of alcohol had crept their way into my life to a point where not having an evening "something-or-another" to take the edge off was becoming difficult. The problem is that alcohol is a really good anxiolytic, and I have anxiety. Bunches of it. And I can frankly say that I prefer a glass of wine to practically all of the doctor-prescribed drugs out there (some turn you into a zombie (turns off all emotions, including happiness), some are even more addictive than alcohol, some keep you from having orgasms..... all kinds of bad stuff). The alcohol was serving a really good function, but even so, it's bothersome to have a habit like that because it can grow worse and become seriously dysfunctional, right? Right.

For the past few weeks I have been taking niacin to help with the anxiety. I weirdly enjoy the flush. I've noticed that if I take it in the evening, it dulls the evening anxiety storm, or at least I'm not remembering the episodes, so maybe they don't exist???? It also helps me get to sleep. I've been naturally skipping alcohol on some evenings, where before I have to make a strong conscious effort (often failing) to do so. Keep in mind I've simultaneously been in ketosis for the past 10 days or so, so that might be an additional factor contributing to my current "eureka" sentiment.

If this continues, its really a good thing for me. Has anybody else had this positive experience with niacin (+- ketosis)? If so, it's definitely useful knowledge.

Anxiety is not unusual. Meaning you are by no means alone.

The best book I have ever read on brain function is by Dr Daniel Amen as he addresses many areas of the brain that might need support.

Anxiety is one of the chapters. He provides a detailed description of what is going on, and many examples. He ties it all to ADD, so unless that is in the picture look at the supplements he lists to reduce anxiety. It can be as simple as a lack of a nutrient, or less than your body requires, so the solution might be a OTC supplement.

Worked for my son.

Book is about $20 paperback Healing ADD. He has other books as well that might be useful to you.

re niacin... Wearbear has a thread you might enjoy.