Symptoms of the change of seasons and natural remedies

Fortunately, we talk more and more often about the importance of mental health , whose world day It was recently celebrated on October 10. Today we explain the possible causes and symptoms of the change of season, which in many causes a real psychophysical discomfort.

The reasons are not yet entirely clear, but it is now evident that the change of season can weaken and tire the body.

Also defined Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD from Seasonal Affective Disorder ) was first described in 1984 by the American psychiatrist Norman Rosenthal. It is a real mood disorder which occurs recurrently during the seasonal change period, more frequent in autumn and winter.

The causes are not certain but there are various hypotheses. Some studies suggest that our neurotransmitters involved in the emotional sphere can be influenced by changes in climate, humidity or pressure. Others, that hormone levels are influenced by exposure to light and variations in external temperature. Finally, the change of time should not be underestimated, which can cause negative effects on the individual. In fact, in autumn when the days get shorter, people who suffer from SAD develop some symptoms similar to "depressive" ones.

It is well established, for example, that a smaller number of hours of light during the day brings with it negative consequences on the body and mental health. This has been studied especially in areas of the North of the world which see a drastic reduction in daylight hours in winter, leading to talk of so-called “Arctic hysteria”.

Let's see in detail what the symptoms of seasonal change are and how to combat them.

Causes and symptoms of seasonal change

THE symptoms most frequent are tiredness, irritability, insomnia, difficulty waking up in the morning. In addition, one feels the desire to sleep and eat more (with consequent weight gain) or on the contrary strong loss of appetite, one feels a drop in energy and has difficulty concentrating and completing tasks. Another important symptom, very frequent, is gastric disorders probably as a consequence of adapting to new climatic conditions.

Women seem to be more likely to develop this mood disorder during the change of seasons than men. Perhaps because female hormones are more sensitive to environmental changes, but this disorder can also affect the elderly, children and adolescents.

In addition to changes in light and temperature, another factor that can predispose to SAD is the stress . Autumn coincides with the return to a more intense work activity, school, or the stress deriving from the demands associated with managing the family: all this can cause even significant symptoms in the most predisposed and fragile people.

How to combat seasonal ailments?

To combat the symptoms of the change of seasons, just follow one healthy lifestyle :

A healthy eating and that it is balanced and includes all the nutrients and micronutrients we need.

A correct one hydration . Drinking at least 1.5/2 liters of water a day is essential to keep the body hydrated.

A good one physical activity , preferably low intensity and long duration such as walking or cycling. Ideally, physical activity should be done outdoors so that the person is exposed to light , which is one of the main treatments to combat this disorder.

Sleep well , at least 7/8 hours a night. It can be helpful to try to fall asleep and wake up at the same time every day, avoid exposure to bright lights or screens before falling asleep. Finally, avoid drinking stimulants or eating heavy food at dinner.

Nutrition: Natural remedies to prevent symptoms

In this particularly delicate period, it is possible to support the body integrating some micronutrients important, useful for reducing the problems related to the change of season.

In this, nutrition plays a fundamental role: when the change of season approaches, it can be useful to include in your diet foods that contain B vitamins , which support our energy metabolism, such as whole grains and dried fruit. Foods rich in vitamin C , such as dog rose because it helps reduce stress and fatigue or rich in iron , like the moringa , the cocoa which also helps your mood a lot or spirulina which has a supporting and restorative action.

Even the Maca Powder or in capsule it's a great one adaptogenic remedy , a tonic capable of counteracting physical and mental fatigue and, furthermore, increases our organism's ability to adapt to stressors of various kinds, physical, mental, work-related, sporting and counteracting the symptoms caused by the change of season.

Additionally, it may be helpful to take prebiotics and probiotics , such as psyllium husks , to avoid or minimize gastrointestinal discomfort related to seasonal changes.

Finally, for a correct hydration , use smoothies, teas, infusions or opt for energy drinks prepared exclusively with 100% healthy and natural ingredients that give strength and energy to the body naturally.

Sources: https://www.britannica.com/science/seasonal-affective-disorder