Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is no laughing matter and if you're feeling a bit blue at the moment you're not alone because this is the time of year that the gloominess hits many of us hard.
Being accountable for our own health has a significant impact though and regardless of whether it's a seasonal feeling or a longer term issue, diet and lifestyle have a powerful impact on our mood.
Here are five tips that are sure to help:
Eat your way to happiness ...research shows that inclusion of B vitamins, essential amino acids and essential fatty acids can elevate our mood. Adding oily fish and eggs or combining vegetarian sources of protein such as rice and pulses along with a variety of seeds and nuts, whole grains, seasonal vegetables and avocados to your diet means that you'll naturally increase these nutrients and minimise the need to take supplements.
Keep blood sugar levels stable ...studies show that we experience fewer cravings if our blood sugar levels are consistently stable which results in in more stable mood.
Avoid alcohol ...it's a depressant which increases production of unwanted stress hormones.
Exercise for 30 minutes a day ...it releases those all important endorphins, the natural anti-depressants that raise mood. It also helps us to sleep better, feel better, look better and enhance self image.
Tackle the root cause ...if you're stressed, take proactive control and don't let issues ride.
Try a variety of these and keep a food and symptoms diary to monitor trends and progress and if symptoms persist, do seek expert help from your GP or chosen healthcare practitioner.
Sarah Lantry received her training at The Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York City. She works with clients nationally and globally both face-to-face and via telephone consultations who have specific health conditions, weight issues, food addictions and cravings along with those who wish to increase energy, improve general health and immune function.
www.attitudetofood.com | [email protected] | +44 (0)7970 770 771
