This is the last in a three-part series on the Weal World treatment of SAD: fitness, fragrance and food for the winter blues.

SAD Support – Part 1: The Patron Saint of Calm
SAD Support – Part 2: I Like to Move It

Well some carbs do a body good. Opt for the whole grain, unprocessed variety.

The winter blues or SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) can cause us to crave these controversial macro nutrients due to their purported effect on serotonin. Adequate amounts of this chemical in the body are often associated with lower levels of depression. Some research* would suggest that a diet sufficient in antioxidants, essential oils, protein and vitamin D is also important for the beneficial effect it has on mood. Whether you travel at home or abroad make sure to eat balanced meals and snacks that contain these ‘ingredients’ to ensure ample nutritional support for the winter blues.
*More conclusive studies are still pending

Here are some ideas for a SAD-friendly meal:

• a Moroccan inspired tagine with chick peas, potatoes, carrots, apricots and couscous
• a warm casserole with quinoa, swiss chard, sweet potato and lentils
• an Asian-inspired stir fry made with broccoli, peppers, edamame and soba noodles
• a warm-up to St. Patrick’s day with steel cut oats cooked with ground flaxseed and topped with blueberries
• a summery salad of bright orange vegetables, dark leafy greens and Brazil nuts splashed by lemon juice and drizzled with an omega 3-6-9 oil blend
• a drink reminiscent of happy sunshine: vitamin-D enriched orange juice

Diet for Depression on WebMD