Washington, D.C., December 11, 2014—The “Winter Blues” are common for lots of people, but just as common are the many ways to help enhance your mood and increase your energy, including taking specific dietary supplements. “During the winter months when the temperature drops and the sun shines less, there tends to be correlating shifts in peoples’ exercise routines and eating habits, which in turn causes shifts in their emotional well-being,” said Duffy MacKay, N.D., senior vice president, scientific and regulatory affairs, Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN). “In working with my patients,” said Dr. MacKay who sees patients on a part-time basis, “there are specific dietary supplements that I recommend in combination with other healthy habits to help patients experiencing a lack of energy or mild seasonal depression.” For example:
- Vitamin D: Shorter days mean less exposure to sun light and vitamin D, the essential nutrient produced in the body when skin is exposed to the sun. Insufficient amounts of vitamin D can cause lethargy and difficulty concentrating, plus other health issues, which is why it is important to make sure that you are getting enough. According to a new study1, taking vitamin D with food improves absorption.
- St. John’s Wort: In winter, or any season, this herbal supplement can be useful for mild to moderate depression. It is important, however, to be used only as a short-term solution and to be aware of medications that may have interactions with this supplement.
- B Vitamins: B vitamins play an important role in turning food into energy, but many people are not getting enough through food alone—and therefore feel lethargic. Supplementing with B vitamins can provide boosted energy and other health benefits.
In addition to considering dietary supplements, consumers should also pursue other healthy habits, such as exercise and healthy diet. Exercise can be especially helpful for reducing stress—whether it’s caused by end-of-year work projects, crowded shopping malls or holiday travel. Eating a healthy diet is also important for mental health and wellbeing, but it takes extra diligence during the holidays when people are more likely to indulge in unhealthier food options. And just for fun, “end your shower with thirty to sixty seconds of cool to cold water,” recommends Dr. MacKay. “It will help increase circulation, which is good during winter when our bodies are more stagnant.”
It is important to talk with your doctor or other healthcare practitioner about how dietary supplements can play a role in helping you feel your best this winter, and if you suspect you may be suffering from severe depression, to seek the care of a properly trained, expert physician.