Winter Blues?
By Michelle Sala, Integrative Health Coach
This is my first real winter in snowy Utah and the farthest north that I’ve spent the winter. I’m not used to so many gray days and a sunrise so late. In California I would wake naturally with the sunrise around 6-6:30 AM. The sun doesn’t rise until after 7 AM here. For many, the reduction in daylight and time spent outside can lead to depression, low energy, weight gain, poor sleep, lack of interest in activities, and possibly even thoughts of suicide. This is known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. [1] If you are experiencing severe symptoms, please see your health care provider immediately!
Making the Winter More Bearable
If you are experiencing mild symptoms of winter blues, here are some things you can try:
Regular exercise – this will increase endorphins and improve mood and energy levels.
Phototherapy with a special white light. [2]
Red light therapy – check out this article here for more information. You can buy your own unit, which is pricey, or look for a spa, chiropractor, or wellness center that offers red light therapy.
Diet – eating a healthy diet will always help with energy and mood. If you tend to eat low carb, try adding more good carbs (sweet potatoes, beans, seasonal fruits and vegetables, carbs that come from whole foods). Adding bad carbs like cookies, chips, and fried foods will make you feel worse.
Vitamin D3 – it is important to have a blood lab test done to check for adequate level and then to know how to dose properly if deficient. Low vitamin D3 can contribute to depression and low immune function.
Testing for Vitamin D
Unfortunately, most insurance companies, as well as Medicare, do not seem to see the value of testing vitamin D levels and therefore most of us are in the dark of our vitamin D status. I am now able to offer my clients low cost lab testing through LabCorp. LabCorp has offices nationwide. If you would like to know your vitamin D level, you can have it done through me for $40. Once you get your results, you will be eligible for 20{07617649484fed9b0031b804b8d67042e8c9309551466d2a85339975f1cdc4d0} off Systemic Formulas DV3 supplement which contains the proper forms of vitamins D, A and K2 for optimal utilization.
Email me at: infomichellesala@gmail.com to arrange for labs or for more information.
Don’t let the winters blues get to you! I’m available to help you work through this difficult time and help you to reach your health goals even during these gray months!
Disclaimer: Please note that these recommendations are based on my personal opinions which have been formed by my own research and are not meant to be a diagnosis or a replacement for any current treatment you and your health care providers have deemed necessary. Any changes you make in your supplementation or diet and lifestyle are the sole responsibility of you and your health care providers, should you choose to follow these recommendations.
[2] https://www.verywellmind.com/best-light-therapy-lamps-4172537
