Avoid A SAD Winter
Simple steps to avoid a SAD winter! Have you ever noticed your mood dipping during the winter months? Is it something that goes away in the spring or summer? If you haven’t talked with your doctor about it, now would be a great time to bring it up as you may have seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression that is fairly common during colder, darker months. According to Psychology Today, SAD affects about 10 million Americans each year, with an additional 10-20% of Americans having more mild SAD symptoms. People with a personal or family history of depression, as well as live farther from the equator, are more likely to experience symptoms. It can cause negative changes in your energy, sleep, concertation, self-care, self-worth, weight, and appetite.
SAD is a mental health condition that should be taken seriously. Having a conversation with your doctor may be hard, but can open the door for help and support. Activities like exercising outside, light therapy, vitamin D supplementation, and mental health counseling can be beneficial. The foods you eat also play a role. Check out the list below for foods that are good for your mental and physical health!
Fermented foods
Examples: sauerkraut, kimchi, plain yogurt, pickles, kefir
Why: These foods are full of good bacteria for your gut. Many of the chemicals that our brain requires to balance our moods are produced in the gut with the help of these bacteria, so replenishing them can improve gut and brain health.
Lower glycemic index Carbohydrates
Examples: Most fruits, leafy greens, low-carbohydrate vegetables, sweet potatoes, bulgur, barley, rolled oats, beans, lentils
Why: Carbohydrates help the body produce serotonin and tryptophan, which can improve mood and boost energy. Lower-glycemic index carbohydrates also help control blood sugar and have more fiber, which helps you feel fuller longer.
Omega 3 fatty foods
Examples: Nuts, seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, olives, olive oil, avocados, salmon
Why: Your brain is full of good fats! Research has found a connection between low omega 3 intake and increased risk of depression. They can also help reduce inflammation in your body while adding flavor and texture to your meals.
Lean proteins
Examples: chicken breast, fish filet, 95% lean ground beef, tofu, beans, game meats, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese
Why: Proteins are made of amino acids, which are required for dopamine, the hormone that impacts mood and pleasure. Protein-rich foods also have micronutrients, like vitamin B12, selenium, iron, and zinc, that are necessary for a healthy blood supply to the brain and fuel development.
Overall, these foods are wonderful to have all year round for maintaining healthy weights, happy bellies, and brain chemicals that can impact feelings of depression. Enjoy in different combinations and preparation methods to get nutritional benefits every season!
SCHEDULE SOME TIME WITH YOUR LOCAL NIM TEAM MEMBER TO TALK ABOUT SUPPORTING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH NUTRITION! REMEMBER, VISITS WITH A REGISTERED DIETITIAN ARE COVERED BY MOST INSURANCE CARRIERS FOR IN-PERSON AND TELE-HEALTH VISITS. ASK US A QUESTION OR REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT TO LEARN MORE!
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Jeanette Schaible, RD, LD, CLC Creative Nutrition, LLCSpecialties: Weight loss and weight management, family nutrition, chronic disease prevention and management, meal planning, digestive issues, mindful eating, body positivity, food enjoyment, family health, wellness
Locations: Stoughton, MA; Worksite Wellness; Tele-Health
