It’s that time of year again…the winter blues, otherwise know as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which can affect people who have normal mental health and moods through most of the year. It’s a common story that as the days get shorter and greyer, people start to feel lethargic, gloomier, and less interested in doing things that make them feel active and happier, which includes eating healthily. When we feel low, it’s tempting to reach for sweet treats for a quick sugar fix. But, unfortunately, this will not make the blues disappear!
A lot of people do not realise that they suffer from SAD. Instead believing that it’s only natural for their moods and energy to drop in autumn and rise again in spring. However, this really does not have to be the case. On the contrary, there are ways to naturally increase levels of our ‘feel good hormones’ by eating ourselves happy and engaging in particular activities. Here are my top tips to protect yourself from winter depression:
Get enough vitamin D
Adequate vitamin D is essential for maintaining good moods. While low levels are associated with depression and other illnesses, including fibromyalgia, autoimmune diseases and high blood pressure. Given that over 80 per cent of the UK population have sub-optimal levels, I recommend that you get it checked twice a year – at the beginning of autumn and at the end of spring. Good levels of vitamin D range from 50 to 70ng/ml.
Eat omega-3s frequently
Omega-3s (a type of healthy fat) play a role in regulating serotonin and dopamine, which are chemicals that affect our mood and behaviour. Good sources of omega 3 fats are oily fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines), along with nuts and seeds (flaxseeds, hemp, walnuts). Most people do not get enough through their diet, so I often recommend a good quality fish oil supplement.
Get moving
Exercise naturally increases endorphins, making us feel better instantly and, therefore, helping to lower depression, anxiety and stress. To reap even more benefits from your exercise routine, try exercising outside so your skin gets a chance to synthesise a little vitamin D. The simple act of taking a walk – when done regularly – can have a measurable effect on your overall well-being. Even on the darkest winter days, we should all be aiming for a minimum of 30 minutes, three times a week.
Light therapy
Many of my clients have found that investing in a light box can really help improve their winter moods. Light boxes emit a very bright light, which simulates the spectrum of the sun and can make you feel happier. Alternatively, sitting by the window for 10 minutes each day can have similar effects. But this will only work if the sun is shining!
Eat seasonally
Soups, stews and smoothies made with seasonal ingredients are all ideal choices for the colder months. If you add warming spices such as ginger and cinnamon, they can increase circulation and aid healthy digestion too. When you feel the need for a ‘quick fix’, try to avoid processed carbs and sugars. These will only contribute to your low moods in the long run since they negatively affect blood sugar levels and deplete essential brain nutrients. Instead, opt for nuts, fruits and vegetables, which are rich in B vitamins, zinc and magnesium. Thus they combat mood swings, irritability and depression.
Get your daily tryptophan fix
Tryptophan makes our ‘happy hormone‘ serotonin, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting a steady supply. Luckily, tryptophan is easily found in certain foods, so I suggest making these diet staples during the cold winter months. The most abundant sources of tryptophan include fish, chicken, turkey, oats, and eggs.