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                      Is S.A.D. Giving You the Holiday Blues?

                      Published by Life Extension

                      The holidays aren’t always a happy time for everyone. People often remember loved ones who’ve passed away or left their lives, which can trigger feelings of sadness, nostalgia, and even emptiness.

                      This is what’s typically referred to as the “holiday blues.” Sometimes, however, it can be a little more serious than that.

                      Some people are actually affected by S.A.D. (seasonal affective disorder), a real psychological disorder. These symptoms usually appear in the winter months and closely mimic the holiday blues. In this post, we’ll shed some light on S.A.D.’s key features and how to treat it.

                      What is S.A.D.?

                      S.A.D. is characterized by cyclical bouts of depression, increased appetite, and an increased need for sleep. Anxiety and carb cravings may also be present.

                      Symptoms typically last from late fall to winter. It occurs in up to 10% of the population, with most cases occurring in people living in northern latitudes where days are shorter.

                      What Causes S.A.D.?

                      There are different theories, but the most popular relates to the circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock system that governs behavior, physiological function, and sleep. During the winter months, the amount of sunlight decreases, causing changes in melatonin levels and consequently, the body’s sleep-wake cycle. In susceptible people, this could result in sleep disorders and psychological problems.

                      Another theory relates to neurotransmitter levels. Research shows people with S.A.D. tend to have low or abnormal levels of serotonin (a precursor to melatonin), acetylcholine, and dopamine. The proper balance of these neurotransmitters is needed for a healthy mood.

                      Natural Treatments for S.A.D.

                      Sun lamps are often the first line of treatment. They work for many people, but not for approximately 40% of patients. Luckily, there are other options to choose from.

                      For example, low doses of melatonin have been shown to improve the mood of S.A.D. patients. Other studies show L-tryptophan and St. John’s wort may also help, with some studies proving them equally effective as light therapy. In addition, it may also help to take nutrients that support the production of neurotransmitters such as vitamin B6, folic acid, and magnesium.

                      It’s not clear whether vitamin D could help, but it’s certainly possible. There’s some compelling research that links low vitamin D levels to depression10.

                      During the winter months, it becomes more difficult — or even impossible in northern latitudes — for the body to produce enough vitamin D. In fact, if you live above the 34th parallel, your body probably won’t make any vitamin D during the winter months.

                      The Bottom Line

                      Feeling sad? Give it some serious consideration — perhaps it’s not just the time of year. If your “holiday blues” persist, there may just be more to the story.

                      Share
                      Life Extension
                      Life Extension
                      LIFE EXTENSION The Life Extension Health News team delivers accurate information about vitamins, nutrition and aging. Our stories rely on multiple, authoritative sources and experts. We keep our content accurate and trustworthy, by submitting it to a medical reviewer. Life Extensionists are people who believe in taking advantage of documented scientific therapies to help maintain optimal health and slow aging. The medical literature contains thousands of references on the use of antioxidant vitamins, weight loss supplements, and hormones that have been shown to improve the quality and quantity of life. Life Extensionists attempt to take advantage of this scientific information to enhance their changes of living longer in good health. This article is posted by permission of Life Extension.

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                      This website is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. FoodTrients – A Recipe for Aging Beautifully Grace O, author and creator of FoodTrients® -- a philosophy, a cookbook and a resource -- has a new cookbook dedicated to age-defying and delicious recipes, The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World, which provides one hundred-plus recipes that promote health and well-being. The recipes are built on foundations of modern scientific research and ancient knowledge of medicinal herbs and natural ingredients from around the world. Since the publication of her first anti-aging book, The Age GRACEfully Cookbook, Grace O has identified eight categories of FoodTrients benefits (Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Immune Booster, Disease Prevention, Beauty, Strength, Mind, and Weight Loss) that are essential to fighting aging, which show how specific foods, herbs, and spices in the recipes help keep skin looking younger, prevent the diseases of aging, and increase energy and vitality. Grace O combines more exotic ingredients that add age-fighting benefits to familiar recipe favorites.

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