Natural Health: Ways of dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder

Sun, 27 Oct, 2024 - 07:42

Megan Sheppard

I find the shorter days difficult to deal with. The lack of light saps my energy, and I tend to feel low. I’ve started taking vitamin D. Is there anything else I can do?

Taking vitamin D is a good place to start. It is possible to store vitamin D, which will help ease symptoms of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), which is thought to affect up to a quarter of the adult population during the shorter days of the autumn and winter months.

Several symptoms are associated with SAD, most commonly a depressive feeling, fatigue, an increased appetite with intense cravings for carbohydrates and sweets, leading to weight gain, and a general desire to sleep for longer and get up later, along with a significant energy slump in the afternoons.

The hormones and brain chemicals responsible for controlling mood and sleeping patterns are linked with the development of SAD — the lower the levels, the higher the risk of experiencing this condition. Serotonin is a hormone that acts as a neurotransmitter, regulating sleep patterns, body temperature, appetite, libido, and emotions. It is available in supplement form, but you can just as quickly boost the production of this important hormone by eating a high-protein snack about three hours before bedtime.

Alongside vitamin D supplementation, you could consider light therapy. There is much evidence to show that light, specifically from the blue area of the visual spectrum, is the most beneficial in treating SAD and other mood disorders. This therapy is beneficial for mood, sleep, and stress disorders and can also help improve energy levels. You can either find a practitioner offering light therapy close to you or if you feel you are particularly prone to SAD, it may make more sense to purchase a light box designed to simulate natural daylight.

See brighterday.ie (01-2819105), with prices starting from €175.

My elderly mum got covid a few weeks ago. She has thankfully recovered but feels tired all the time. What would you suggest?

Post-viral fatigue following a bout of covid is a common problem. Exhaustion, brain fog, and digestive upset are the three main symptoms people seem to struggle with.

The first place to start is with a good probiotic supplement to replace the beneficial bacteria.

Traditional botanicals to support constitution and vitality include Rehmannia root, star anise, Schisandra berries, nigella seeds, fennel seeds, turmeric root, garlic, ginger root, cayenne pepper, lemon peel, and raw honey.

Rehmannia is a blood tonic; star anise is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Schisandra berries are adaptogenic and support liver function, help with endurance, and boost energy levels. Nigella seeds also exhibit potent antioxidant activity, are anti-inflammatory, and can help with respiratory issues.

Fennel seeds have long been used to help digestion, respiratory health, and viral infections. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is currently being investigated as a powerful complementary medicine supporting covid recovery.

Your mum doesn’t need to take every single one of these remedies (many of which are common kitchen spices), any combination will help restore energy and rebuild her immune system. Make a strong tea or infusion using a heaped teaspoon of botanicals per cup of boiling water.

To help rebuild her immune defences, ensure she gets vitamins C and D and mineral zinc to restore her immune function. The recommended dosage for zinc is 15mg daily; vitamin C is 2,000-5,000mg daily in increments of 500mg (sodium ascorbate is the most gut-friendly form); and 1,000IU of vitamin D3 daily.