Energizing Eats

When we’re in the grips of winter and the short, dark days are upon us, we can sometimes start feeling a bit down and withdrawn. For some, this can trigger a type of seasonal depression called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD for short. Symptoms of SAD are typically observed during the fall and winter and may include a feeling of hopelessness, fatigue, problems concentrating, and a change in appetite. Luckily, with a few small lifestyle changes during these colder months, you can stave off these symptoms and increase your overall health. First off, as tempting as it is to pull the covers over your head on dark mornings and sleep in, try to stick to a regular sleep routine. Getting at least seven hours of sleep at night and waking up at the same time every day may help you feel more energetic and less listless during the day. Next, try bundling up and getting outside for some brisk activity during daylight hours. Studies have shown that exercise as well as exposure to sunlight both ease symptoms of depression. Lastly, stay social, and also try to incorporate as many seasonal ingredients into your cooking as possible. Connecting with those we care about helps to improve our mood, and cooking seasonally ensures we get the maximum nutritional benefits from our foods, which, in turn, helps us feel good inside and out. So, get your fork ready and read on to discover a handful of delicious and nutritious meal ideas perfect for keeping your mind and body happy and healthy.