Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a mood disorder related to changes in the seasons. Individuals with SAD often experience a drop in mood and energy in the winter months, with symptoms resolving in spring and summer. It is important not to brush these feelings off as the “winter blues” but rather seek proper treatment and help. Often SAD is treated using a combination of therapy, vitamin d supplementation, light therapy and nutrition intervention.
Helpful Seasonal Affective Disorder Tips
Foods to Eat in Abundance
Omega-3 rich foods
e.g. flaxseeds, salmon, oysters
High fibre foods
e.g. vegetables, whole grains, legumes, some seeds
High-quality fats
e.g. avocado, coconut oil, ghee, seeds, olive oil
Plant-based protein
e.g. tempeh, legumes, hemp seeds
Cacao
Foods to Limit
Processed sugar
e.g. white sugar, corn syrup, fructose
Artificial sweeteners
Poor quality fats
e.g. margarine, fried foods, canola oil, sunflower oil
Convenience foods
i.e. shelf-stable, boxed, instant and ultra-processed foods
Gluten
Cook Time
5m
6h