Tip of the Day
Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment
Some people experience a serious mood change during the winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. This condition is called seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, which is a type of depression.
If you feel you may be suffering from symptoms of SAD, make an appointment to seek medical help, and reduce your risk with mood-boosting strategies, such as:
- Folate and vitamin B12 may influence mood by playing a role in serotonin production. Add foods rich in folate and/or vitamin B12, such as fortified whole-grain breakfast cereals, lentils, oatmeal, beets, shellfish, wild salmon, low-fat dairy and eggs.
- Regular exercise can relieve depression and trigger physiological changes that make more energy available throughout the day, according to some studies.
- Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin. During the darker winter months make sure you're getting good sources of vitamin D such as low-fat milk, fortified soy milk and egg yolks. It may be beneficial to take a daily multivitamin.
For more tips on fighting the winter blues with good mood foods, visit the RDs Weigh In blog and consult a registered dietitian, who can help you create a customized eating plan that will keep you happy and healthy throughout the winter months.
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