In our previous post, we discussed Seasonal affective disorder. Seasonal affective disorder (also called SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at the same time every year.

In addition to vitamin D, several herbal remedies and mind-body techniques are commonly used to relieve depression symptoms. One step towards warding off SAD would be to make your environment sunnier and brighter. You can open blinds, add skylights and trim tree branches that block sunlight. Sitting closer to bright windows while at home or in the office can also increase your natural intake of vitamin, straight from the source- the sun!

Other treatments for SAD include:

• Acupuncture

• Massage Therapy

• Getting outside every day

• Exercise

• Light Therapy

• Regular schedule for waking and going to sleep;

• Eating foods in season that are whole and minimally processed

• Choosing whole grains and complex carbohydrates (avoid refined carbs and sugars)

• Supplement with high quality Omega 3 oils, vitamins and minerals. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements have been shown to relieve depression symptoms in some studies. Sources of omega-3s include fatty, cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel and herring. Flaxseed, flax oil and walnuts also contain omega-3 fatty acids, and small amounts are found in soybean and canola oils.

In addition to providing gentle, non-force chiropractic treatments, Seaman Chiropractic also offers acupuncture, massage therapy, rehabilitative strength training, and nutritional counseling. We can find the perfect blend for you to get healthy and stay healthy, and ward off SAD. If you think you might be affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder, give our office a call at 773-545-2233 today.

Seasonal affective disorder (also called SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at the same time every year. This is called a cyclic, seasonal condition. If you're like most people with seasonal affective disorder, your symptoms start in the fall and can continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.

SAD is usually characterized by these symptoms:

• Depression
• Hopelessness
• Anxiety
• Loss of energy
• Social withdrawal
• Oversleeping
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates
• Weight gain
• Difficulty concentrating and processing information

Recent studies suggest that Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to SAD. You need sunshine on your skin to produce vitamin D. In the winter months, there is less sunlight and less exposed skin available to soak up the sunshine, leading to decreased vitamin D production. Recommended dosage for Vitamin D supplementation is 5,000 to 10,000 IU per day. Supplementation is important, because you would literally have to stand outside with no clothes on for 20 minutes in order to get your daily value of vitamin D!

Major Vitamin D Functions

·         Supports key mineral absorption and metabolism (especially calcium and phosphorus in bones)

·         Regulates normal cell differentiation and proliferation (e.g. prevention of cancer)

·         Promotes insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation

·         Regulates over 200 genes through binding to Vitamin D receptors throughout the body

If you or a loved one thinks you might be affected by SAD, give our office a call today at 773-545-2233. Dr. Seaman can find the right blend of chiropractic and lifestyle counseling to get you healthy and to stay healthy!