Yes, there’s a lot more stress in the winter, coupled by snowstorms and financial burdens from the holidays. But the lack of light does more to our bodies than we think. Many Canadians suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, which on a biochemical levels is changing our balance of hormones.
Let’s start with MELATONIN.
It helps us sleep and is released when light starts to dim, like during a sunset. If we consider that winter is almost always dark, we are producing much higher amounts of melatonin during the day.
Now let’s talk SEROTONIN.
Serotonin is our ‘happy’ hormone, and is often the target of many anti-depressant medications. We see that by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, we feel happier and more motivated.
How are they related? Well, serotonin and melatonin are part of the same family line. In fact, we need serotonin to make melatonin. BUT, if the amount of light entering our eyes is minimal enough, the demand for melatonin becomes greater, and serotonin is sacrificed to meet that demand.
Thus, we see a drop in serotonin and start to feel tired, lethargic, unmotivated, sleepy, depressed, irritable, moody, hungry, etc. Basically, a groggy bear that should be hibernating, but has to work a full-time job. These are all the signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
So, how can we increase our serotonin?
- BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME – furnish your home with more lamps, dimmer switches, mirrors, etc. Anything that helps to brighten up the home naturally or by reflecting artificial light. You’ll be surprised how great this works.
- EXERCISE – parts of the world with regular sunrise and sunset year round have far fewer mood disorders than North America. Do your best to keep your daily activity within your regular waking hours. For example, if in summer you might go to the gym between 5-7pm, don’t let the early sunset keep you back in winter. Keep your gym bag in the car, and flood your eyes with the fluorescent lights and great energy of the gym. By the time you are done your workout, it will be time to slow down and prepare for the sleep time you would have even in summer.
- TAKE VITAMIN D – we underestimate how important this vitamin is. Did you know that people with low vitamin D levels are at increased risk for ALZHEIMER’S and DEMENTIA later in life? Keep your brain healthy now and you will be rewarded.
- SUGAR-FREE, PROCESSED FOOD-FREE – cook your meals. All of them. Avoid eating out and challenge your sugar cravings to see if you really need it. It’s hard at first but you feel the benefits within 1 week and will even reduce bloating, inflammation and weight.
If you are concerned about Seasonal Affective Disorder or feel your symptoms of depression are lasting even through the bright and sunny days, please contact Dr. Krysten. She will help support your brain and body through the winter and prepare for spring.