10 Ways To Boost Your Mood Naturally

Coming down with a case of the blues?

- Michele Burklund, ND

You’re not alone. It’s estimated that up to 10 percent of the population in the United States will show signs of a declining mood as the days get shorter and the temperatures drop.

A specific type of mood disorder that’s directly related to the change in seasons is commonly known as SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD symptoms usually occur in the autumn and winter months and include tiredness, feelings of hopelessness, overeating, and loss of motivation. These symptoms can be more prevalent in people who live farther away from the equator, and typically affect women more than men. As with many health issues, prevention is key. Here are just a few ways to help you identify and eliminate some of the causes of your blues before they set in.

SEROTONIN

Have you noticed an uptick in carb cravings? If the answer is yes, you might be suffering from a deficiency in serotonin. Known as “the feel-good neurotransmitter,” serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating both mood and hunger. A recent article published in The Journal of Depression Research and Treatment hypothesizes that people who suffer from seasonal affective disorder may have difficulty regulating this neurotransmitter. How do we keep serotonin in balance? By supporting the production of it through precursors such as the amino acid tryptophan (from which your body produces 5-HTP), as well as vitamin B6 , an important cofactor. Foods rich in tryptophan include turkey, eggs, salmon, nuts, and cheese. Foods loaded with vitamin B 6 include garlic, spinach, cauliflower, and celery.

PROBIOTICS