Are you feeling S.A.D. this winter? Look to the light

February 5, 2014 · 0 Comments

According to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) over 900,000 Canadians have already been diagnosed with SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. Some people find themselves governed by changes in the weather and although some feel SAD is only associated with cold, dark winter months, this mood disorder can be experienced even during other seasons.

Symptoms often include an overwhelming feeling of listlessness, a nestling in, oversleeping but waking exhausted, anti- social tendencies, short temper, a general disinterest in activities, a craving for carbohydrates, sweets and stimulants such as caffeine, and an overall sense of depression. The CIHR offer the services of medical professionals, Dr. Marc Hebert, an expert in neuroscience, physiology, and mental health and he is available to discuss retinal sensitivity relating to SAD, while Dr. Julie Carrier, a neuroscience, mental health, sleep expert is on hand to discuss the non-visual effects light has on the brain relating to SAD.

Traditional medical treatment for SAD as expressed by the Mayo Clinic includes full spectrum light therapy, (phototherapy), antidepressant medication and psychotherapy, noting that purchasing a light box might be enough to ease all symptoms just using it 20 minutes a day.

As society spends more time in doors, the brain will naturally produce more melatonin, the chemical in the brain which aids in the promotion of sleep. Inversely, serotonin, the stimulating happy chemical is produced when outdoors in the sun. Both chemicals have a direct affect and effect on the brain and the results can be SAD.

Dr. Andrew Weil, both a medical doctor and naturopath, is the founder, professor and director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona and he suggests another area of concern resulting in many being diagnosed with SAD, Vitamin D deficiency.

As treatment, Dr. Weil recommends aerobic exercise, the use of light boxes and daily supplements of 2,000 IU of vitamin D because it’s estimated that 70% of the American population is Vitamin D deficient. CBC news reported that 4 million Canadians are Vitamin D deficient and that translates to 1.1% of the Canadian population. Note Dr. Weil mentions that even higher amounts of Vitamin D may be required depending on the severity of Vitamin D deficiency. A simple blood test during a visit to your family doctor can determine if you are vitamin D deficient.

Certainly Canadian diets have changed and Vitamin D is no longer found in large amounts in many food sources today. According to the British Columbia Ministry of health, one cup of fortified foods such as milk, rice or soy beverages only contain 100 IU of vitamin D. Even the small 85 gm size of canned tuna only contains 200 IU of vitamin D, and neither come close to the 2000 IU suggested to avoid SAD.

Whether you choose to pursue the natural road to treatment or traditional medical road to manage this mood disorder approaching epidemic proportions, take comfort in knowing that most symptoms of SAD disappear as summer approaches, the days grow longer, and you too will see the light!

By Alex Sher